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About V.Start
V.Start is a retro-styled 2D platformer set inside a 1995-era computer system. Developed by OwenOak95 and released on October 20, 2025, it tasks players with playing as one of three robot avatars, B.O.B, B.R.T, or B.T.Y, to navigate four distinct zones, collect chips, defeat automated bots, and hack terminals to neutralize a virus. The game leans into pixelated visuals and 90s computing aesthetics, blending platforming challenges with light puzzle-solving. It’s a single-player affair focused on exploration and combat, with a clear goal of purging the system’s core. Think classic platformers with a techy twist, aimed at fans of nostalgic 2D action.
Gameplay
Each session revolves around horizontal scrolling through environments like server rooms and corrupted code labyrinths. Players jump, dash, and shoot to overcome obstacles and bots, using chips as both currency and temporary power-ups. Hacking terminals requires quick timing or pattern recognition mini-games, adding variety to combat. The three avatars have minor stat differences, B.O.B has higher health, B.T.Y moves faster, but core mechanics remain consistent. Controls are tight, emphasizing precision over complexity. Sessions typically last 1, 2 hours per zone, with backtracking to unlock shortcuts. Boss fights at the end of each area mix platforming and targeted attacks. The retro difficulty curve rewards memorization, but deaths reset progress in a zone.
What Players Think
As a brand new release, V.Start lacks established community metrics. Early critic reviews highlight its charming aesthetic but note repetitive enemy patterns. No average playtime or completion rates are available yet. There are no reported achievements or DLCs, and price details remain unlisted. Player moods on forums are cautiously optimistic, with some calling it “a solid throwback” and others “undercooked.” Without post-launch data, it’s hard to assess replay value or difficulty balance.
PlayPile's Take
V.Start is a niche pick for retro platformer enthusiasts. Its 90s computer theme and tight controls make it worth trying, but limited content and unproven polish may deter newcomers. At an unknown price point, it’s a gamble, ideal for those who enjoyed games like Super Meat Boy or Shovel Knight. Stick with it if the aesthetic and challenge appeal, but don’t expect impressive mechanics.
Game Modes
Single player
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