Slacker

Lazy game design

Reviewed by Shawn from afro-ninja.com

Slacker is an entry into the point and click genre that features pretty shoddy graphics and a somewhat confusing interface. However, the puzzles have some creativity to them and let’s face it, how many games let you play the role of a slacker?

In Slacker you have three main goals- get something to eat, groom yourself, and go turn in your application at the local Deli-Mart. Nothing complicated you say? Well, not for a slacker. We’re talking about a man who can’t even put socks on before his shoes. The items you find and the commentary given by our main character is amusing to read as you make your way around the ill-kept house. I have to say it’s a bit of a nice change to have to do something like cook breakfast, instead of figuring out how to unlock a treasure chest or something like that.

The main thing hampering this game is the inventory system, and because of that the game is more difficult than it needs to be. When you pick an item up, it appears in your inventory- fair enough. From here you can read the description of an item, combine it with another item, or use it. But the process isn’t always smooth. First you have to click the ‘use’ button, then click the item itself. The problem is that there is no kind of visual clue that you are in ‘use’ mode. You just kind of keep clicking use in combination with an item until it works. Also confusing is the item combination process. You click an item, click combine, and then click another item. Again, there is no visual signification of what you’re actually doing, and no messages when you try to use the wrong items or combine the wrong items. Also, the items didn’t seem to always combine on the first try. Lastly, when items are combined they are placed on a submenu under ‘special items’ yet the original items remain on inventory screen. It’s all a bit confusing to say the least.

Even with confusion in place the progress of the game is *fairly* logical, especially if you pay attention to some of the clues in the main characters commentary. Remember: think like a slacker. Luckily the game has a built-in guide for you cheaters out there. (Ok ok, I had to look at it too) The graphics, as I said, are pretty bad, but they could be worse. And to be honest they’re pretty fitting for a game about a slacker. The background loop fits perfect, but it is a little too short. No mute button either.

Although falling short in several areas, Slacker is still a good attempt at the genre. And if nothing else, it should make you crack a smile… or at least vow to never become a slacker. How many point and click games can claim that?

Click here to play Slacker






Comments (1) [view all]

  Latest comment left by mogly:

I dunno, I semi agree with your review. Slacker 2 is one of my favorite games, and they both have this thing about them that makes them cool. This game was a little illogical at times but still fun. I think the graphics are better than you said. Good review regardless.

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