Save Jesus is a puzzle game is based around physics in which you have to save Jesus, Mary and Joseph from harm. You do this by redirecting traps and killing any roman soldiers on the map. Whilst on paper the concept of a biblical themed puzzle game seems reasonable. However this game setting isn’t really suitable for a game of this nature. I think that physics based puzzles aren’t the best puzzle style to choose for a biblical game. Furthermore this game according to the name is a game that is for Christians. Yet the game involves players in killing which turns off many of the games target audience.
The story in the game also makes no sense in many ways. Firstly you have a story that involves characters from the bible but isn’t relevant to the book it is based on. Since the story is about a time traveller who has planted traps that you need to redirect. Secondly, the game fails to explain the purpose of the placement of these traps against Jesus or why you collect stars. Furthermore, it is not made clear why the time traveller despises Jesus. Lastly the game doesn’t have a story outside of the aforementioned story, but it has a variety of different environment backgrounds. But, the purpose of being in each setting is never made clear.
Gameplay wise as stated previously the game is about physics based puzzles. Whilst the games puzzles are about controlling a rolling ball so you eliminate enemies, collect stars and save Jesus. The game itself has a simple enough concept to understand. However this game isn’t a particularly intelligent puzzle game. This is as a result of the game’s setting, which limits the possibilities of the game. The variety of mechanics that could be used if this game had a science fiction scenario would be enormous. As a result of the games design most of the puzzles in game are about timing. This I feel is bad as it doesn’t require you to think too much, but relies on trial and error. The timing based mechanics also make the game repetitive as you replay the level until you get it right.
Technically this game is very basic on many levels. Option wise this game provides limited options. In fact the only time you get options to change is on the unity menu before the game starts. The only option available in game is to turn the sound off. I also dislike the lack of game options that the game provides especially when it comes to balls used in game. Since each level in this game requires you to complete the levels using seven different balls. However the game picks the ball you use on a level for you and there is no way to pick the one you want to use. Also there is no difference between them with regards to how each ball functions the differences are only aesthetic.
While I agree that on a visual level this game is cute. Particularly because the art style itself is reminiscent of a cartoon or an online flash game. Speaking of which this game does play and feel like a flash game. Outside of the art style I can’t really think of anything else that the game does do well. Inevitably I cannot recommend this game at all.
