Undertale – macOS Review

Undertale made its debut on macOS on September 15th, 2015, having initially landed on PC after a successful Kickstarter campaign that fueled nearly three years of development. Toby Fox, the sole force behind the game's writing, design, and composition, brings forth Undertale as a prime example of an indie gem.

Embark on an adventure where a child accidentally tumbles into the subterranean realm of monsters, a result of an ancient conflict that banished these creatures beneath the surface. Undertale's narrative takes a refreshing approach, introducing monsters with personality and the ability to engage with the player. Conversations are not limited to just dialogue; they extend into battles, adding depth to the journey toward the surface.

Undertale reshapes the traditional RPG battle system with turn-based combat, reminiscent of classic RPGs. Combat sequences involve timing your attacks for maximum damage, coupled with brief top-down shooter mini-games during enemy assaults. However, what sets Undertale apart is the choice not to kill monsters. Engaging in conversations or taking alternative actions can lead to sparing them, offering a unique dynamic that affects the story, characters, and even the game's ending.

Undertale's reactive storytelling is a standout feature, with dialogue evolving based on various factors. Multiple endings and altered dialogue make it a six-hour experience that begs for at least two playthroughs to explore its full potential.

The art style draws parallels to Earthbound, with clean and expressive visuals. In battles, pixelated character sprites and attacks add a distinctive touch. While not graphically intensive, Undertale excels in clarity, ensuring readability, distinct characters, and clear navigation. The game's focus on dialogue, NPCs, and rooms over items enriches the overall experience.

Undertale's music complements its graphics, exhibiting fluidity and expression. Themes for characters and pitch-shifting to match situations contribute to a memorable and fun soundtrack. The chiptune-inspired music carves its path, adding a unique touch to the game's atmosphere.

Undertale's strength lies in its interactivity, reactive storytelling, and memorable characters. Although not overly challenging, the game's combat and decision-making elements offer a distinctive RPG experience. The expressive music and engaging characters, coupled with its short but replayable nature, make Undertale a must-play for RPG enthusiasts and fans of retro-styled games.

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