PGC NEWS

The 2018 World Cup, a month-long football frenzy, concluded with France’s triumphant victory after a 20-year wait. However, celebrations were marred by widespread riots across the country. Amidst this chaos, a fittingly surreal video game emerged, offering a different kind of Parisian upheaval. Youropa, a captivating puzzle game from Danish developer Frecle ApS, invites players to explore a gravity-bending version of Paris in a truly unique way.

Youropa stands out for its remarkably long development cycle of 10 years. Such dedication is impressive, especially for a niche puzzle game. For fans of the genre, however, Youropa promises a rewarding and thought-provoking experience.

Youropa – Đánh Giá Game

Exploring a Twisted Paris

From the outset, Youropa presents a distinctly Inception-like perspective. The objective is clear: reach a designated point and uncover the mysteries surrounding a peculiar event. The game’s world draws inspiration from the film Inception, with interconnected levels that defy conventional spatial orientation.

Levels are linked in an intricate web. Unlocking a door in level A might require finding a key in level B and activating a generator in level C. This interconnectedness is elegantly presented through a visual map, allowing players to easily track their progress and identify unexplored areas.

Youropa – Đánh Giá Game

Challenging Puzzles and Dynamic Gameplay

Youropa‘s level design is meticulously crafted, with puzzles that encourage creative solutions. While challenging, these puzzles never feel mandatory, allowing for exploration and experimentation. Each level presents a combination of puzzles, requiring players to utilize various skills. From confronting quirky enemies to navigating sudden downpours and even showcasing football skills, Youropa offers a diverse range of challenges.

The difficulty and complexity of the terrain increase with each level, while new abilities for the protagonist are gradually unlocked. The game provides subtle environmental clues, rewarding observant players.

Youropa – Đánh Giá Game

Beyond the puzzles, Youropa allows for creative expression. Players can personalize the environment with an array of paints, sprays, and graffiti designs. While not a realistic depiction of Paris, the game evokes a sense of timeless beauty, from serene sunsets to vibrant underground scenes.

A Journey Through Sound and Story

Youropa‘s gameplay is punctuated by moments of fast-paced action, navigating obstacles with an energetic soundtrack. Conversely, quieter moments of puzzle-solving are accompanied by soothing melodies.

Completing the main storyline takes approximately 10 hours, while uncovering all the secrets can extend gameplay to 15 hours or more. The story unfolds through collectible audio tapes scattered throughout the levels.

An Imperfect Paradise

Despite a decade of development by a team with experience on puzzle games like Max & The Curse of Brotherhood and Kalimba, Youropa suffers from some minor shortcomings. Input lag can be noticeable, and combined with occasional ambiguous level design, can lead to frustrating situations.

Youropa – Đánh Giá Game

Visually, Youropa shows its age. The low-polygon models and dated effects, particularly the overuse of bloom, detract from the overall presentation. Furthermore, the game’s performance is surprisingly unstable, with fluctuating frame rates despite its relatively simple graphics.

Youropa – Đánh Giá Game

Conclusion

Youropa offers a unique puzzle experience with innovative gameplay and a captivating world. While its technical shortcomings and dated visuals are noticeable, its core mechanics and level design shine. The level editor adds immense replayability, allowing players to create and share their own gravity-defying challenges. Despite its flaws, Youropa is a worthwhile experience for puzzle enthusiasts seeking something truly different.

Youropa – Đánh Giá Game