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Posted By Wynn Johnson Posted On

So Many Me: A Charming Puzzle Platformer with a Unique Twist

Platformer games have a long and storied history, evolving into a diverse genre with iconic characters like the enigmatic protagonist of Braid, the whimsical Rayman, and the ubiquitous plumber Mario. While the genre boasts a vast library, truly exceptional platformers are less common. Interestingly, many of the genre’s freshest and most innovative titles come from independent developers. So Many Me, developed by Extend Studio and published by ORiGO Games, is one such indie gem that adds a unique twist to the classic formula. Released in July 2014 for PC, PS3, and Xbox 360, So Many Me offers a delightful and challenging experience for puzzle platformer enthusiasts.

The game’s core mechanic revolves around controlling Filo, an adorable blob-like creature, and its numerous clones. These clones aren’t just for show; they are integral to the gameplay and puzzle-solving. By transforming these clones into various shapes, players can overcome obstacles, solve intricate puzzles, and navigate the vibrant world of So Many Me.

Innovative Gameplay Mechanics and Challenging Puzzles

So Many Me‘s most distinguishing feature, as hinted by its title, is the ability to control multiple copies of the protagonist, Filo. This cloning mechanic is central to the gameplay and sets it apart from other platformers. Players must strategically utilize Filo’s clones, transforming them into different shapes to solve the game’s numerous puzzles. These transformations might involve creating a stack to reach higher platforms, forming a bridge to cross gaps, or even acting as a counterweight to activate mechanisms. review_off-SoManyMe (3)review_off-SoManyMe (3)

The game’s challenge comes not only from the puzzle design but also from increasingly difficult boss battles. These encounters demand skillful clone management and strategic thinking, adding another layer of depth to the gameplay. While the controls are easy to learn, mastering the clone mechanic and overcoming the game’s challenges requires thought and experimentation. review_off-SoManyMe (1)review_off-SoManyMe (1)

The strategic use of Filo’s clones is more than just a gimmick; it’s the heart of So Many Me‘s engaging and often brain-teasing gameplay. The game encourages players to think creatively and experiment with different clone formations to find the optimal solution.

Exploration and Collectibles Add Replay Value

Instead of long, complex levels, So Many Me offers a series of shorter, self-contained stages, each packed with unique puzzles. While simply completing the levels is relatively straightforward, the real challenge lies in collecting hidden items. These collectibles unlock a variety of cosmetic items for Filo and his clones, new gameplay features, and even increase the number of clones available, making the game progressively easier. review_off-SoManyMe (5)review_off-SoManyMe (5)

Missed a collectible? No problem! So Many Me encourages replayability. Players can revisit completed stages to hunt down those elusive items and achieve 100% completion. However, as previously mentioned, acquiring these collectibles is often a challenging endeavor, demanding precise platforming and clever use of the clone mechanic. review_off-SoManyMe (6)review_off-SoManyMe (6)

Charming Visuals and a Simple Yet Effective Art Style

So Many Me features a charming 2D art style that, while simple, is full of personality and cartoonish charm. Character animations, environmental details, and visual effects are polished and well-executed. The diverse environments and enemies are visually distinct, adding to the game’s overall appeal. The colorful and whimsical aesthetic adds to the lighthearted feel of the game and complements the innovative gameplay mechanics. review_off-SoManyMe (4)review_off-SoManyMe (4)

Repetitive Soundtrack Detracts from the Experience

While the visuals are delightful, the audio design falls short. Sound effects are basic, and the soundtrack, while pleasant enough, lacks variety and becomes repetitive over time. This unfortunately detracts from the overall experience. review_off-SoManyMe (12)review_off-SoManyMe (12)

Conclusion

So Many Me is a charming and innovative puzzle platformer that stands out thanks to its unique clone mechanic. The challenging puzzles, engaging gameplay, and charming visuals make it a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre. While the repetitive soundtrack is a minor drawback, the core gameplay loop and clever level design more than compensate. If you’re looking for a fresh and engaging puzzle platformer with a unique twist, So Many Me is definitely worth checking out.

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