Inky and the Alien Aquarium is a refreshing entry in the puzzle genre, blending classic block-pushing mechanics with a captivating narrative and innovative gameplay elements. Developed by Pocketpulp, this game transcends its Sokoban-style roots by incorporating a unique mix of puzzles that challenge players to think creatively. The protagonist, Inky the octopus, embarks on a quest within an alien space station, offering players a rich story-driven experience as they navigate to rescue fellow sea creatures.

What sets the game apart is its open-world approach and flip screen mechanics, which compel players to solve puzzles not just on a single screen but as part of a larger, interconnected environment. This, coupled with the variety of objects to manipulate and obstacles to overcome, enriches the puzzle-solving experience. The game’s art style, initially met with mixed reactions, ultimately serves its gameplay well, with clear visuals that facilitate puzzle recognition and resolution.

This game emerges as a standout title in the realm of racing games, offering a fresh perspective by setting its high-speed contests in the vacuum of space. Developed with an eye for the classic era of gaming, it revives the MS-DOS platform with its pixelated charm and engaging gameplay mechanics. Players navigate a variety of spacecraft, each with unique attributes, across 16 meticulously designed tracks that span virtual representations of cities like Detroit and Athens. The game’s simplicity is deceptive, challenging players to master the nuances of inertia and maneuverability unique to its zero-gravity races.
The addition of upgrades allows for strategic enhancement of spacecraft capabilities, such as speed, handling, and acceleration, directly affecting gameplay and adding depth to the racing experience. Moreover, Slip Speed distinguishes itself with its adherence to pure racing; devoid of combat elements, it places a premium on skillful navigation and speed. The game’s visual and audio aspects, while rooted in retro aesthetics, contribute to an immersive racing experience, notwithstanding minor audio repetitions during collisions. Available on itch.io, with both a demo and a purchasable physical edition, Slip Speed is a testament to the enduring appeal of the racing genre, ingeniously reimagined for contemporary audiences.