Last December, I got to experience the dizzying highs, terrifying lows, and creamy middles of a Steam for the first time. While most of this time is just a hazy memory now, I distinctly remember picking up Hotline Miami when it was heavily discounted.
Deciding that my normal procrastination habits just weren't doing it, I decided to give it a try this weekend.
So, where to begin?
Gameplay:
The game is a fast-paced, top down shooter with a bit of a twist - if an enemy so much as looks at you funny, you're a dead man. Luckily, you can respawn instantly to try again and there is no lives system to speak of. Each level becomes a puzzle - you're encouraged to push, prod, and experiment to find the best path to brutally dispatch all the goons that lie in your way.
That's not to say it's easy, though. The game gets balls hard by the end, requiring quick thinking and fast reflexes that could Superman a run for his money. The "final boss" in particular is keyboard-smashingly difficult; you'll die faster than you scream, "Bullshit!"
You could say it becomes Hotline Die-ami.
Still, the challenge makes it all the more rewarding when you do eventually succeed, so it's not all bad.
The story lasted me for 5-6 hours, and there's incentive to keep playing once you've beaten (High scores, bonus levels, unlocking new weapons/masks, etc.).
Story:
Yeah, this is where it all gets a bit weird.
In its most basic terms, the game takes place in 1989 Miami. You are an unnamed man in what looks like a letterman jacket. You get messages on your answering machine discretely telling you to murder people at a certain address. You do just that.
And then... everything gets weird. As your sprees continue, the world becomes more and hostile and bizarre - and then it keeps on going. I won't go into much detail because you need to see it for yourself, but needless to say, if you're looking for a mindscrew, you should be pleased.
The story's all disjointed, but that seems to be the entire point - and the ending flatout mocks the player for wanting anything more.
Visuals/Sound:
The game has a fantastic aesthetic. The retro graphics complement the setting well, and creates a great atmosphere. The music is top notch, too, and fits the game to a tee. The pixelated brutality, pulsing neon lights, and synth score make the game feel like an acid trip gone bad - in the absolute best way possible.
Overall:
Hotline Miami is a great game. It's a good value at its normal price, but if you see it on sale, I'd say it's a must buy. Don't miss it - or do, but feel bad.
