Project Silverfish: Scaly Survivors in a Post-Apocalyptic Playground

Lizard folk, looting, and a whole lot of lurking

Launch Day Larry

Welcome to the world of “Project Silverfish,” where the apocalypse has never looked so… reptilian. This early access gem invites you to slither through a post-apocalyptic landscape, blending the atmospheric tension of “STALKER” with the unique twist of anthropomorphic lizard characters. It’s a game that promises to keep you on your toes—or claws, as the case may be.

Gameplay: A Scaly Symphony of Survival

“Project Silverfish” offers a gameplay experience that feels like a love letter to “STALKER” fans, with a few new scales added for good measure. The game excels in providing a customizable experience, from fully rebindable controls to a flexible save system that caters to both hardcore survivalists and those who prefer a more forgiving journey. The character creation is a standout feature, allowing you to tweak everything from scale color to voice tone, ensuring your lizard hero is as unique as a snowflake—if snowflakes were cold-blooded.

The game world is a treasure trove of environmental interactions, encouraging players to engage with their surroundings in creative ways. Whether you’re using a crowbar to pry open a stubborn crate or lighting candles to set the mood for some post-apocalyptic romance, the attention to detail is impressive. The AI, while generally competent, occasionally takes a detour into the realm of the absurd, like a lizard running headfirst into an anomaly. But hey, who hasn’t had one of those days?

While the game offers a robust map filled with exploration opportunities, the lack of randomly generated quests might leave some players yearning for more variety. However, the ability to add personal video files to in-game TVs adds a delightful touch of personalization, making your journey through this strange world feel uniquely yours.

Graphics: A Low Poly Lizard Paradise

Visually, “Project Silverfish” is a feast for the eyes, with a low poly art style that sets it apart from its peers. The game’s aesthetic is both beautiful and functional, creating an immersive world that feels alive and vibrant. The depiction of anomalies and mutants is particularly noteworthy, adding a layer of mystery and danger to the landscape.

However, the game’s performance isn’t without its hiccups. Frame skips and FPS drops can occur, particularly when encountering the infamous “rainbow jellyfish-looking” anomaly. These issues are generally forgivable given the game’s early access status, but they do detract from an otherwise stellar visual experience. The lack of a third-person view also means that your meticulously crafted lizard character is mostly hidden from view, which is a bit like buying a sports car and never taking it out of the garage.

Story: A Scaly Tale of Survival and Mystery

“Project Silverfish” weaves a narrative that is as intriguing as it is mysterious. Set in a world where anthropomorphic lizards roam a post-apocalyptic landscape, the game offers a rich tapestry of lore and world-building. While there isn’t a central narrative to follow, the game excels in creating an atmospheric experience that encourages exploration and discovery.

The inclusion of supernatural elements and anomalies adds a layer of depth to the story, inviting players to uncover the secrets of this strange world. However, the lack of a cohesive narrative might leave some players feeling adrift, as the game focuses more on player-driven experiences and faction plots. The use of identity politics, such as pronouns, has been a point of contention for some, but it doesn’t overshadow the game’s potential for immersive storytelling.

Final Verdict

“Project Silverfish” is a promising entry in the indie gaming scene, offering a unique blend of survival mechanics, atmospheric storytelling, and a visually striking world. While there are areas for improvement, particularly in performance optimization and narrative depth, the game provides a solid foundation for future development. With its engaging systems and exploration elements, “Project Silverfish” is a title worth keeping an eye on as it continues to evolve.

Score: 7.5/10