Time Loader is a game about what happens when you try to change the past for a better future. It’s a sci-fi puzzle platformer that uses the gravity concept in most situations. Let’s take a closer look at what this game is all about.
Time Loader is a story about this scientist who created a time machine. He was able to actually perfect a time machine that was capable of sending something through time. However, it is too small for a person to get into so he created a robot that will go back in time for him instead. What’s also interesting about this game is that every action you make in this game can result to different endings.
Your adventure starts as soon as the robot is sent back in time. The controls are fairly simple and you get a little tutorial on how each control works. You also get hints along the way in case you get stuck on where to go next or what actions to do.
As this is a puzzle platformer. You will spend most of your time trying to figure out how to get to the next level by solving gravity puzzles as well activating switches and doors. The puzzles are challenging and interesting enough that it got me hooked in an instant. The game doesn’t really hold your hand but there’s a pointer that points you to your destination. Getting there however is a different story because you’d have to explore to your heart’s content to figure out where to go. Sometimes you’d have to leave it to trial and error so that you can get to that next shelf or next door. However, there are moments that can be very frustrating that you can end up being stuck in a situation for a long time. Only to find out it was a bug and that you’d have to reload.
The world building of this game is reliant on finding little notes here and there. It’s entertaining to see the ripple effects of each action that the robot has done to the future of the scientist. We also see the robot travel through different time periods and even have to go back to the previous timeline to correct things. Without spoiling away too much, meddling with time is a risky thing and the repercussions of doing so can lead to very severe consequences. There is even a moment in the game that the robot had to create is own time machine so he can travel through time.
The graphics in this game are actually pretty good. The detail in each object is very accurate and it really provides a vibe that you are exploring the 90’s. The developers really thought out everything that you can feel nostalgic as you see some of the set pieces. One thing I did notice is that most of the set designs are being reused because there are parts of the game where you have to explore the same location several times but getting to new places that you normally couldn’t reach before.
The level designs are very good and interesting. Some of the puzzles can really stump you if you don’t look carefully for objects that may help you traverse the game. The game has a very appropriate music as you explore the levels. It’s very calm and serene and really helps set up the mood to help you concentrate on what is in front of you.
Your robot starts off with a very bare minimum of movement. But as you progress through the game you will gain improvements to the robot that will help it traverse through the levels easier as well as in sticky situations. This allows you to get to places you previously couldn’t get to allowing access to objects that will help you as well.
Overall, Time Loader is a very interesting puzzle game with a mechanical puzzle that will really test your knowledge of how gravity plays a part in this game world. The story is interesting enough that it will inspire you to get through the game to know where the story will take you. If you’re a fan of puzzle games and time travel then this game will definitely pique your interest.