After uncovering an ancient structure, the mining outfit named Skyrig is suddenly invaded by a group of space pirates that call themselves the Wild Boys.
As cargo worker John Rochard, it is your duty to protect the ancient structure, fend off the pirates, and rescue your fellow co-workers. Armed with only a G-lifter, John must bend the laws of physics while solving complex puzzles and using the environment to his advantage.
Based on a physics engine, John must stack boxes of different weight and sizes to navigate though environmental puzzles. Some puzzles require John to stack boxes to reach ledges, while others force John to use the boxes as projectiles in low gravity environments to propel himself to unreachable areas.
In some cases, different colored walls will prevent non-human objects from passing through. Since John’s G-Lifter gun can carry objects effortlessly, it can navigate boxes under platforms and throw them to bypass barriers.
Certain levels have no gravity. When this occurs, John’s ability to jump increases and his G-Lifter can lift cargo boxes that are otherwise too heavy in a standard gravity environment. In some cases, the environment is turned upside, forcing the player to approach platforms and puzzles differently. Trying to think upside down can be difficult at first, but it becomes second nature after a few tries. Despite focusing heavily on physics and puzzles, Rochard also incorporates run-and-gun mechanics.
Once John upgrades his G-Lifter, it can be used as a laser rifler. By pressing the Triangle button, the player can toggle between the G-Lifter and rifle. The rifle can be aimed using the right analog stick and the R2 button fires. The combat experience is pretty average and the enemies seem to lack proper AI. In most cases, they will stand in place and fire. If you hide behind a crate, they will continue to shoot the crate until you reemerge. The gun turrets that are mounted on the walls seem to display better AI than the pirates.
Crates and other heavy objects can be used as shields/projectiles during combat. These objects can be picked up by pressing the R2 button and manipulated with the right analog stick. Incoming enemy fire can be deflected by any object that John has in his G-Lifter. If the situation arises, the object can be fired like a projectile by pressing the R2 button.
Rochard does have its moments. There are times when certain puzzles make very little sense. While all puzzle games are based on trial-and-error, some scenarios leave little margin for error. During one specific scenario, John must eliminate a detonator within 20 seconds using force fields. During the first few tries, the puzzle makes very little sense. Luckily, these are far and few between.
The graphics are slightly above average, but look really good in HD. What they lack in detail they make up for in definition. The choice of colors used for the environments bring everything to life. The voice-acting is also quite impressive for a PSN title. The main character, John, is very convincing, and so is the supporting cast.
Rochard is a challenging puzzle game that is perfect for both the hardcore and causal gamer. The in-game controls are flawless, and the combat – even though the enemy AI is flawed – feels very smooth. While some issues do exist, Rochard is worth the price of admission, especially if you’re looking to challenge your mind and reflexes.
Mike Pittaro
Platform: Playstation 3 (Available on PSN)
Developer: Recoil Games
Publisher: SOE
ESRB: T (Teen)
Price: $9.99
| Review Score | |
|---|---|
| Graphics |   |
| Average cartoon-style graphics. | |
| Sound | |
| Great voice-acting and decent sound effects | |
| Gameplay | |
| Complex puzzles keep the game feeling fresh | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
| Rochard is perfect for hardcore and casual gamers alike. | |
