Today, we are going to take a look at “YBit” by Facundo Balboa. This name should ring a bell in your mind, as I’ve reviewed his retro space shooter Asterash only half a year ago. Now, at first sight, you can see, that Facundo keeps it real and keeps it retro. “YBit” is a pixelated platformer adventure, that is as close to VVVVVV like Asterash to Bats. Plus, it’s the first Steam Game, that I am going to review as all my previous write-ups were Android Game Reviews. Heated-up and ready to rumble? Let’s rock!

Your daily source of motivation.

Jump, Die, Repeat!

In “YBit”, you lead a yellow pixel, that is guided by a green pixel, through a world full of grey (neutral!), red (bad!) and other pixels.

You just need a few seconds to see, that this game runs ultra smooth and the controls are super easy (arrow keys + spacebar). Also, the physics have been carefully thought out as the movement of your yellow bud is always comprehensible. Above all, the time between death and respawn is so short, that I am not even sure if the program already knows that you are going to die before you even know it. I’m telling you this because I hate long respawn times, since I prefer to klick and move like a rabid weasel. So, that’s definitely a plus.

Another plus is the consistent retro style, that is also reflected in the soundscape, and the funny, creative, interesting and even situational dialogues between you and your pixel mentor.

Early Access

Officially, “YBit” is still in development, although the look and feel of this game don’t give the impression as if there’s much work left to do. On the other hand, it’s always interesting to have the chance to affect the origination process… if only there was some room for improvement! Okay, there’s one thing I have to point out: The learning curve is excellent – until you’ve reached level 16. Until then, I was easily able to grow with the challenge, but now I’m stuck on the 17th stage and I have the impression that the gap between the first 15 levels and these two ones is simply too high.

If the quick and easy path leads to the Dark Force, I am going to be a Jedi soon!

The Verdict

Even now,  before it’s official release, “YBit” is a full-fledged retro adventure, that can keep up with the best games of its genre. Try it out for yourself and download the game here.

All pictures are in-game screenshots.