Super Magbot is a retro-style platformer that makes use of pixel art graphics inspired by the graphics of 16-bit era consoles, such as the SEGA Genesis or Super Nintendo Entertainment System. One quirk of this indie game is that there is no jumping mechanic. Instead, the player must use magnetic force to tackle the levels.

Given the nature of the game, it would be easy to compare it to games with grapple hook mechanics like Bionic Commando or Batman: Arkham Knight. However, the magnetic force mechanic is not quite a grappling hook, as will be explained.

Magnetic force

The marquee game mechanic of Super Magbot is the use of magnetic force to navigate certain obstacles. Levels are filled with magnetic items, and by correctly polarizing the magbot’s magnetic force to either repel or attract these magnetic items, they can traverse parts of the level that would be otherwise impossible without the ability to jump.

Retro-styled aesthetic

The look and feel of Super Magbot will have fans of 16-bit era games interested. It utilizes a pixel art style that would have been right at home on a SEGA Genesis or a Super Nintendo Entertainment System, with quite traditional-feeling control, save for the magnetic force power. In keeping with the 16-bit aesthetic, the game features a chiptune soundtrack.

An interesting but repetitive platformer

While Super Magbot should hold special appeal to fans of 16-bit era games, that is not to say there is nothing for other gamers. The gameplay mechanic is novel, and there is a smooth progression of difficulty for less skilled players. The game’s main problem is that it can start to feel quite repetitive after a while.