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Lifeless Moon is the spiritual successor to Lifeless Planet. However, this modern sequel has stepped away from the puzzling moments. Instead, it leans heavily toward walking, lore, and a vast clichéd sci-fi experience. Furthermore, when new platforming elements are introduced, they do not push or test your skills. Accordingly, this is a relaxed game that is challenge-light, but atmosphere-heavy.
This walking simulator was developed by Stage 2 Studios and published by Serenity Forge. Moreover, it is a single-player experience that plays out from a third-person perspective. Though this viewpoint helps as you explore and complete platforming tasks, it reduces the immersive nature of this genre. Though I didn’t find this to be a problem, other players may feel disconnected and disappointed.
Lifeless Moon: a classic Sci-fi romp.
Space travel and expanding our horizons will always fascinate us. Ever since the space race began, humans have been fixated on leaving Earth and finding “the next big thing”. This theme allows creative individuals to get their juices flowing. Yet, though there is freedom to attack this genre, many people stick to tried and tested tropes. Consequently, this is exactly what happens in Lifeless Moon: a classic sci-fi romp.
You play the part of an Apollo-era astronaut who is stuck on the moon. An incident occurs, and you are separated from your crewmate. As you try to gather your bearings and explore your location, glimpses of your crewmate’s memories haunt you. Yet, that isn’t all! As you feel all hope is lost, a bizarre sight awaits you. In the distance, a lifeless and crumbling town can be seen. Is this a safe haven, or is it some twisted experiment? You soon find the answers as you delve into this bizarre experience.
Basic gameplay.
Lifeless Moon focuses on an atmospheric endeavour that is filled with titbits of lore. As you venture across the moon’s barren surface, you’ll find documents and photographs to piece together the mystery. Alongside this, you are free to delve into whatever actionable items, buildings, or miscellaneous objects you stumble across.
Though this lack of direction can feel a little loose, I enjoyed the freedom to do as I pleased. Yes, the game was centred around each key object, and progress could not be achieved without them, but this mattered not. I took my time walking across an array of varied arenas whilst searching the beautiful world.
What disappointed me, however, was the lack of serious puzzles. Furthermore, the platforming elements were too easy, and your jetpack has a magic refill setting. If these elements had been executed individually, I wouldn’t have minded. Yet, combined, they leave you with a sense of wanting. Subsequently, I desperately desired tougher puzzles or a complex array of platforms to conquer. Unfortunately, this never happened.
Lifeless Moon looks great.
Saying the moon looks beautiful is surely a joke. This dust-ball rock is sparse, grey, and devoid of life. However, the developer has done an incredible job of adding energy to this empty world. As you undertake your journey, you’ll be thrilled to see some strange locations that shouldn’t exist. I adored the blend of human and alien structures, and how they force you into using the tools at your disposal.
The audio combines classical synth notes and a dramatic orchestra to great effect. The result is a sci-fi success that matches the theme whilst adding drama. The weight and balance of each track complement the unravelling story and the sound effects add depth. Though they won’t blow you away, I appreciated the sound of each footstep and the other ambient noises.
Brilliant controls.
The lack of platforming elements was frustrating. Yet, I cannot complain about the tight controls and the excellent UI. It is just a shame that the responsive inputs and well-considered layout were never put to the test. Thanks to the lack of challenging elements, you’ll spend your time walking and that’s about it.
Another somewhat underwhelming area is replay value and longevity. This short indie title lasts around 5 hours. In this time, you’ll complete much of the action. Accordingly, there is very little reason to return once you’ve completed it. Thankfully, the first playthrough is decent enough to justify the price tag.
Lifeless Moon is a pleasant indie game.
If you are not a fan of walking simulators, you’ll want to give this a miss. However, if you like an atmosphere-rich title with lush graphics and plenty of lore, then this is right up your street. Though I have my complaints, I think the developer did a great job. Consequently, I recommend buying it here! Can you get to the bottom of the madness? Explore the moon, piece together the information, and discover the meaning of each secret.
