Indie Game Review: "DLC Quest"

Publisher: N/A

Developer: Going Loud Studios

Release Date: November 2, 2011 (USA)

Premise:

DLC Quest is a side-scrolling platform game that is a satire about DLC in games. The main goal is to rescue the princess.

Gameplay: 

The gameplay of DLC Quest consists of traditional platforming. While you initially play, certain features are restricted, such as the ability to move left or pause the game. As you progress through the game, you are able to unlock necessary features by purchasing DLC in-game (not real DLC but the game calls it DLC as a satire of game companies restricting content).

Gameplay revolves around exploring the world by running and jumping around collecting coins so that you can purchase the necessary DLC that you need to finish the game, all the while poking fun at the ever-increasing craziness of real-life DLC in games.

Graphics:

The graphics are retro pixelated, and some animations such as walking have to be unlocked to be used.  The game is kept very simple and straight-forward and is reminiscent of past games that had simple, clean interfaces and looks.

Sound:

Sound is another aspect of the game that you must unlock through DLC as you progress through the game. Having ambient music in the background and sound effects of hitting things with your sword and moving around are all unlocked as you play.

Length:

DLC Quest is not a very long game, not at all. You can complete a playthrough in roughly an hour or maybe even less. The game is kept very simple with easy objectives that are told to you plainly so you always know where to go and what to do.

Value:

I applaud the developers for making a satire out of the nature that DLC has taken on in the past years, and for providing the experience for simply $1. If you're looking for a quick pick-up-and-go game that will give you a few chuckles than I would recommend buying this game off of the Xbox Live Indie Game Marketplace.