PGC NEWS

Fallback, developed by Endroad, presents a 2.5D action platformer reminiscent of classic titles like Megaman X4, particularly in its fast-paced combat and focus on dashing and slashing. This Fallback review explores the game’s engaging mechanics, challenging difficulty, and unfortunately, its brevity.

alt text describing the core gameplay mechanics like dashing, attacking, and the 2.5D perspective.

Engaging Gameplay and Permadeath

In Fallback, players assume the role of volunteers tasked with combating rogue robots within a subterranean shelter. Each volunteer boasts unique abilities, such as slowing time to enhance attack range, applying damage-over-time effects, or regenerating shields after successful strikes.

With limited health, players are quickly dispatched by enemy attacks. The permadeath mechanic further intensifies the challenge. Upon death, players lose all collected items and progress as that volunteer, instead taking on the role of a new recruit with base stats and equipment. This rogue-lite element adds a significant layer of difficulty.

alt text showcasing the permadeath mechanic and the transition to a new volunteer.

The game’s difficulty truly shines during boss encounters. The first boss, for instance, can decimate the player’s health with a single blow, highlighting the importance of strategic combat and resource management. The lack of healing options early in the game further amplifies this challenge.

The “Module” System: Customization and Build Variety

To overcome the escalating threat posed by the robots, Fallback offers a robust upgrade system called “modules.” Throughout each level, players encounter stations where they can purchase modules using currency earned by defeating enemies.

These modules provide various enhancements and are crucial for survival, including unlocking healing abilities. The ability to stack and combine modules allows for diverse builds and strategic playstyles. For example, players can combine a damage-over-time module with one that converts critical hit damage into health regeneration, creating a self-sustaining combat loop.

alt text displaying the boss battle and emphasizing the difficulty.

The Glaring Flaw: Short Game Length

Despite its engaging mechanics, Fallback suffers from a significant drawback: its short length. With only three areas and three bosses, the game can be completed surprisingly quickly, even with the permadeath mechanic.

alt text illustrating the module system and the potential for build customization.

While the module system encourages replayability by experimenting with different builds, the limited content ultimately restricts the game’s long-term appeal. The focus on grinding for currency to unlock modules feels excessive, especially considering the small number of levels. A player dedicated to a no-upgrade run could potentially finish the game in a mere 15 minutes.

alt text depicting the game's environments and the limited number of areas.

Conclusion: A Promising Game Hampered by Brevity

Fallback offers a compelling gameplay loop with its challenging combat, unique permadeath mechanic, and customizable module system. However, the game’s extremely short length significantly detracts from its overall value. While the core mechanics are enjoyable, the lack of content prevents Fallback from reaching its full potential. Players seeking a short but intense action platformer might find enjoyment in Fallback, but those looking for a more substantial experience may be left wanting.

Game Information

• Developer: Endroad
• Publisher: Endroad
• Genre: Action Platformer
• Release Date: October 11, 2019
• Platform: PC