Recompile, the new "hack'n shoot 'em up" from developer Phigames and publisher Dear Villagers, released back on August 19, 2021 on PC, PS5, Xbox Series X and Game Pass. At the time, I was too swamped with reviews to play the game, but it looked so intriguing that I wanted to circle back and check it out, and I'm glad I did.
Recompile is one of those games that cannot be done justice with screenshots; you have to see the game in motion to comprehend it's true artistry. Just looking at static images, you might think that the graphics were breaking up on the fly, the images weren't compiling correctly, and the game was buggy as all-get-out. But when you see the game move, you realize just how fluid the entire experience is; those fractured graphics are supposed to be that way - the levels assemble themselves as you approach. It's a super cool effect, and well worth taking a look at.
I only had time to play about a half hour of Recompile for this video, but I have since gone back to the game and played some more. I love the way the platforming isn't obvious; you have to take some leaps of faith to really progress, and the lighting effects from your character are sometimes the only light you have to guide you on your way.
If you do check out the video, make sure you change the settings to 1080p to get the full effect. Recompile is a gorgeous game, and you should check it out in the best possible light.
