Hyper B.A.E.

Hyper B.A.E. is a fast-paced, side-scrolling platformer set in a sci-fi universe where you play as Hazel, an engineer on a mission to rescue her part-alien, part-robot friend R.O.M.E. from being weaponized. Navigate through treacherous levels filled with bullet-hell challenges, dodging robotic sentry guns while traversing a structure devoid of elevators, all in a race against time to save your companion.

Hyper B.A.E.: Review

Introduction

Hyper B.A.E. is a sci-fi platformer and bullet hell hybrid where players control Hazel, an engineer on a mission to rescue her part-alien, part-robot friend R.O.M.E. from the clutches of a malevolent AI in a high-security facility. This action-packed game combines lightning-fast reflexes with precision platforming through eight stories of escalating peril. Prepare to tackle wave after wave of bullets while navigating treacherous environmental hazards.

Development History & Context

Good War Games originally entered Hyper B.A.E. into an Unreal Mega Jam but continued development after missing the deadline. The studio leveraged Unreal Engine 4’s Paper 2D capabilities to create a unique 2D hand-drawn aesthetic. The team iteratively refined the gameplay, character design, and level structure while developing an in-game level editor for community content.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

The story follows Hazel’s desperate bid to save R.O.M.E., who’s been weaponized by the organization she worked for. The AI antagonist taunts the player with a death counter and timer, creating a tense atmosphere of urgency. Key themes include loyalty, survival against overwhelming odds, and the moral ambiguity of Hazel’s actions against her former employers.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

Players navigate through 56 rooms filled with bullet patterns, robotic enemies, and precision-platforming challenges. Core mechanics include running, jumping, double-jumping, and dodging. The game features a tight control scheme essential for navigating the bullet hell sections. A timer and death counter add a competitive edge, with plans for leaderboards. The in-game level editor allows players to create and share custom challenges.

World-Building, Art & Sound

The game’s world is a cyberpunk-inspired facility with neon lighting and dark, industrial visuals. The 2D hand-drawn art style features bright neon colors on a dark palette, drawing inspiration from retro sci-fi. The original soundtrack complements the high-intensity gameplay with pulsating electronic music. The audio employs industrial sound effects to heighten the urgency of the bullet-dodging action.

Reception & Legacy

Released in 2016, Hyper B.A.E. didn’t receive significant critical or commercial success. However, its unique blend of platforming and bullet hell gameplay suggests potential for cult appeal. The game’s influence is unclear due to limited exposure, but it remains a testament to Good War Games’ ambition in combining challenging mechanics with an engaging sci-fi narrative.

Conclusion

Hyper B.A.E. stands as a bold entry in the platformer and bullet hell genres, offering a compelling blend of viscerally satisfying action and atmospheric sci-fi storytelling. While it may not have gained mainstream recognition, it provides a challenging and rewarding experience that deserves attention from fans of punishing but fair gameplay and 2D platforming excellence.