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Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy is a welcome addition to this much-loved franchise. However, if this happens to be your first attempt at a Trine game, you needn’t worry. Thankfully, no experience is necessary, and you won’t feel alienated by a lack of knowledge. Furthermore, there are some pleasant recaps that help to fill in some of the blanks.
This humorous 2.5D platform title was developed by Frozenbyte and published by THQ Nordic. Moreover, its colourful world is full of puzzles and the occasional fight. Consequently, it unravels at a familiar pace, and that was fine by me. What’s more, it can be enjoyed solo or with another 2 players, both locally or online.
Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy tells a shallow but funny story.
The Trine franchise is renowned for its witty dialogue and whacky storylines. Thankfully, Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy doesn’t let you down. However, after its initial outburst of madness, the action plateaus and doesn’t evolve. Consequently, if you expect a lore-rich endeavour, you’ll be disappointed. Yet, if you like childish humour, then this will be right up your alley.
The trio of Amadeus, Pontius, and Zoya are a force to be reckoned with. This mage, warrior, and thief must work together to overcome every obstacle and maintain their hero status. However, this is challenged when they are tricked by Lady Sunny. Using their vanity as a weapon, the diabolical Lady Sunny attempts to steal their powers. However, the trio escape and set off on a journey to thwart her crazy plans.
Excellent mechanics.
Where Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy shines is its excellent gameplay mechanics. No matter if you play this solo or with 2 others, you’ll adore the action that unfolds. Each of the heroes has a set of skills that overcome an array of obstacles. Furthermore, each of the protagonists can be used to kill the smattering of enemies that you face.
The mage can conjure a box or a platform to bridge chasms. Whereas, the warrior can use his shield to protect himself and deflect items. Finally, the thief can use her bow to connect objects together or use a rope to swing between rings. Accordingly, the three characters must work in harmony to overcome every problem and progress through the standard platforming world.
Upgrades and fighting.
Another excellent idea was the upgrade and collectable feature. As you explore each level, you will stumble across gems and immovable objects. These 2 elements are key to character progression, longevity, and replay value. As you gather the gems, you will unlock upgrade points. These points can be spent on unique skills for each of the heroes. However, there is a caveat, as many of the new features can only be unlocked once you’ve progressed far enough.
This was a great idea, as it prevented you from investing in unnecessary skills. Moreover, there are multiple ways to complete each puzzle, and having too many tools at your disposal could complicate matters. I adored the new skills as they gave each character a fresh method to overcome obstacles. Additionally, once new abilities are unlocked, you can return to discover hidden paths and otherwise unreachable locations.
The fighting element was disappointing. The developers have invested plenty of effort into the puzzles and the script that the combat appears as an afterthought. Consequently, no matter what difficulty setting you choose, the fighting is mundane and 1 dimensional.
Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy looks fantastic.
Visually, Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy looks crisp and striking. I adored the vivid colours and the excellent stage design. Moreover, the animation was fantastic, and the cinematic was great. On top of this, I experienced no performance issues, and the old-school side-scrolling approach worked particularly well.
The audio was just as good! The whimsy soundtrack is upbeat, infectious, and great to listen to. What’s more, the acting is dry, amusing, and will work with many demographics. Alongside this, the unusual sound effects add to the fantasy element without being too loud or in your face.
Superb controls.
The superb control system supports the fun and rewarding gameplay. An intuitive UI ensures that the action is smooth and easy to understand. Moreover, the button layout is fantastic, and I had no issues with input lag. This was essential, as many of the puzzles require intricate and accurate movement. As such, the developers have done a great job of making this accessible no matter your skill set.
Thanks to the upgrade system and the hidden pathways, there are plenty of reasons to keep playing. On top of this, you’ll enjoy a unique experience if you play this solo or with 2 friends. As such, Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy oozes longevity and replay value.
Trine 5: A Clockwork Conspiracy is a fantastic sequel.
Though a 5th instalment may be seen as overkill, I loved what I saw. Yes, the mechanics and the jokes were familiar, but this mattered not. I loved the enhanced difficulty and the brilliant upgrade tree. Moreover, the puzzles were fascinating and clever and will make you think. As such, I loved this game and I recommend that you buy it here! Can you hunt down the demonic Lady Sunny and save the day? Upgrade your equipment, work as a team, and don’t let anything stop you.
