REVIEW / Don’t Die, Mr. Robot! DX (PC)

I’m not generally an aggressive person, but I can be when I get into my competitive mode. When it comes to arcade games, I feel like that’s when I really take my aggression to another level. I’m not usually one to get vocal while playing videogames but there’s something infuriating about barely surviving against pixelated enemies who don’t look intimidating. This may or may not, (absolutely does,) apply to Don’t Die, Mr. Robot! DX, today’s game.

Don’t Die, Mr. Robot! DX is a new little arcade game with one goal, which is to survive as long as possible. Now, there’s a little more to the game than simply surviving but that is the essence of this deceptively challenging robot/alien/fruit-themed arena. I thought there would be a gradual build-up from one level to the next but each one felt chaotic. It’s a vibrant and amusing type of chaos but still very much present throughout. I’m sure if I spent a solid 24 hours on this game I’d become a pro. Also, if there weren’t so many enemies and missiles coming toward my little bug-eyed robot every millisecond, I would have enjoyed sitting back and watching the excitement while jamming out to the catchy soundtrack. There’s nothing better than having a good bop while playing a game, (though I’m waiting for someone to create a soundtrack as amazing as the one to the Mario franchise.)

There are a few different modes to choose from in Don’t Die, Mr. Robot! DX, including Arcade, Remix, Time Attack, and Chill Out. I appreciate having multiple options, especially when my nerves can only handle so much action in one sitting (thank you, Chill Out Mode). If you’re like me and looking for a mission-based challenge, Remix Mode is the way to go as it tests your response time and ability to read enemy attacks. Arcade Mode is more of a standard style with endless possibilities from one level to the next while Time Attack is really just a cruel, maniacal way of letting your enemies kill you as fast as possible.

As I mentioned earlier,  in Don’t Die, Mr. Robot! DX, survival is the name of the game. This being said, there’s also a variety of colorful fruit to collect and gold coins to grab while you race against the clock. You’ll also get some added rewards such as wave and danger bonuses that increase your score if you want to do more than simply survive as long as possible. I have to say that having the timer stressed me out a little. It’s probably my subconscious bringing back memories of sitting at a desk in a classroom, constantly checking a clock on the wall while frantically filling out SAT Scantron sheets. Since there is constant pandemonium as squiggly purple creatures and green flying saucers fly from every edge and every corner of the screen, I found it a challenge to notice the clock for more than a couple of seconds.

Overall, Don’t Die, Mr. Robot! DX is a simple yet challenging arcade game that becomes increasingly frustrating the longer you play while gradually becoming more familiar and predictable. If you’re looking for something to help you unwind after a long day while simultaneously putting you under pressure, this is the game for you and is available on Steam for Windows right now.

This review is based on a retail copy of the game provided by the publisher.