Proto-G First Impression: Retro Robo Action

Proto-G by Benua Softworks is a hack and slash game with a strong retro feel. You are a robot, awakened by your human masters to save the world. While the story may be cliche, it does little to detract from the feel of the games own retro aesthetic. However, this is a hack-and-slash action game and the controls keep up.

The controls in Proto-G are solid. They respond well and the mechanics can be used to create variable playstyles. The most unique to this game is the dash you are able to perform with the Shift key. The dash allows the player to not only cover a small distance quickly but also grants the ability to cancel an attack animation early allowing for extended combo strings. In my time with this build, I was able to play both slow and steady as well as push my damage to finish the level even faster.

The game is not without problems, however. There were no bugs or glitches in my time Proto-G and the environments are colorful, but the game feels very linear. There was nothing that stood out that made me want to explore my surroundings or destroy them if I could. The game also does a poor job of conveying how to play in the introduction. The dash is an integral part of the game and there was no on-screen prompt or reminder of it when there was for both shooting and melee attacks. I didn’t learn how to do it until I had died to the boss of the demo about twice, at which point the game saw fit to tell me about it.

The Good: Responsive controls and an appealing aesthetic make Proto-G a blast to play. The versatile mechanics which allow the game to be played either slow and steady or fast and furious allows accessibility for all types of gamers.

The Bad: The linear and confined level designed will put off players looking for secrets and collectibles. The game is also doesn’t make the mechanics clear at the beginning, which may lead you to mistake the pace of Proto-G.

Final Thoughts: Even with its problems, the experience Proto-G brings to the table is one of nostalgic joy. Its retro-future aesthetic works well with the fast-paced nature of the game. There is a feeling of high-octane intensity as you dash through the alleys in the glow of the neon lights surrounding you, then turn to aim and finish the enemy. With the tight controls, versatile mechanics and an appealing aesthetic, I can’t wait to dive into Proto-G when it is released.