Video Game Review: Jupiter & Mars

Jupiter & Mars

Tigertron

Adventure

PSVR

PSVR gives players the opportunity to experience games in a way never before. Sometimes they are simple and allow players to live the experiences of the character. Sometimes VR games just allow players to gain a new perspective on everything. Jupiter & Mars’ added VR mode allows players to experience the oceans first-hand.

Jupiter & Mars is an adventure game that takes place entirely underwater. Players will control Jupiter, a dolphin and join Mars, her partner as they swim around the ocean. The first-person game allows players to navigate through the ocean as they find collectibles, rescue other creatures, and just enjoy the sights. While there are a few neat moments throughout the game, Jupiter & Mars feels like a missed opportunity.

While players directly control Jupiter, they can also give orders to Mars as they travel throughout the ocean. Jupiter can use echolocation that is great for finding secrets and a vortex ring, which is used for interacting with the environment. Mars can be directed to ram into brittle objects, allowing players to explore new areas and gain access to collectibles. Players will also be given a variety of power-ups as they progress through the game, giving the game a 3D Metroidvania feel.

Exploration is the main appeal of Jupiter & Mars and younger audiences will certainly enjoy this one. The game isn’t at all difficult and make it a slog for experienced gamers. The enemies and hazards are easy to overcome, making this game ideal for children and those who love the ocean. The gameplay loop of using echolocation and ram can be a bit tiring at times, but Jupiter & Mars isn’t too long of a game so it won’t wear out its welcome.

Jupiter & Mars gives players a few control options that make sure that the game flows well for the player. Players can control the camera via head-tilting or the analog stick. The game also utilizes snap and smooth turning for comfort. The Dualshock 4 is the only controller option, but I can’t this game utilizing the moves or aim in any spectacular way.

The game takes place in the future in which humanity trashed the planet and left, leaving nature to reclaim itself. Jupiter & Mars uses tons of environmentally friendly themes to its advantage as it spreads a positive message. It’s upbeat music certainly sells the positivity, but the constant loop of the same songs will wear down the player pretty quickly. The music isn’t the only presentation mishap either. The environments are bland and rely on a future-esque color scheme that clashes with the message. Everything is a bit dark and foggy, forcing the player to constantly press the echolocation button. There are a few neat sights that have been taken over by the oceans, but the charm wears off quickly.

The simple gameplay and relaxing atmosphere make Jupiter & Mars a nice relaxing experience. The music kind of takes away the vibe, but this is still a fine experience for the right players. Without the VR mode, there isn’t much here, so make sure you have a headset. It’s not groundbreaking, but those who love the environmental message and hate intense gaming should consider Jupiter & Mars.