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Software to give Vista users sound adjustment control in the Sidebar menu

Software to give Vista users sound adjustment control in the Sidebar menu

Vote: (13 votes)

Program license: Paid

Developer: Mike Bithell

Version: 1.0.18b

Works under: Windows

Also available for Mac

Vote:

Program license

(13 votes)

Paid

Developer

Version

Mike Bithell

1.0.18b

Works under:

Also available for

Windows

Mac

Pros

  • Engaging storyline with dynamic characters
  • Clear, stylish visuals that enhance gameplay
  • Intuitive controls facilitating strategic play
  • Expansive variety of tools and techniques for completing objectives
  • User-generated content vastly extends replayability

Cons

  • Restricted to one active item can limit tactical variety in certain scenarios
  • May not appeal to those seeking traditional action-focused stealth gameplay

An Engaging Blend of Stealth and Strategy

Volume, a stealth action game that accentuates the genre's strategic elements, sets itself apart with a unique approach and vivid visual design. Developed under the leadership of Mike Bithell, known for the critically acclaimed platformer "Thomas Was Alone," Volume borrows from the past yet innovates to create a contemporary gaming experience that offers both depth and accessibility.

Immersive Storytelling in a Virtual Arena

Delve into the digital realm with Volume, which masterfully interweaves narrative and gameplay. Players take on the role of Rob Loxley, a modern-day cybernetic Robin Hood, who enlists the help of an AI named Alan to simulate heists against the corrupt Gisborne corporation. This futuristic take on a classic folk tale unfolds in a neon-drenched virtual world, with the story being amplified by dynamic faux social media chatter and engaging exchanges between Rob and Alan. The voice acting, particularly for the AI, enriches the tale, making it resonate with players on a deeper level.

Visual Clarity Meets Gameplay Precision

The strength of Volume lies in its ability to transform abstraction into clarity. Its graphical style adopts minimalist but sharply rendered neon polygons, ensuring that every aspect of the environment and its interactive components are unmistakably defined. This graphical clarity extends to the gameplay itself: the unambiguous rules of the virtual world are visually represented, allowing players to confidently navigate Rob through intricate stealth operations.

With its fixed bird’s-eye perspective, Volume offers an unfettered view of the terrain and its occupants. The methodical patrolling of adversaries and their respective vision cones are displayed transparently, ensuring players can anticipate and plan their moves with precision.

Innovative Tools and Tactics

As players progress, Volume’s expanding complexity becomes evident. The game seamlessly integrates a spectrum of tactics and tools that Rob can utilize to outsmart and evade his high-tech foes. From averting attention with environmental interactions like flushing a toilet or whistling, to deploying advanced gadgets such as noise makers and trip wires, players must adapt their strategies to overcome the increasingly difficult challenges.

The game's disciplined approach to equipment management—limiting Rob to one item at a time—imbues gameplay with strategic depth, compelling players to carefully consider their approach to each scenario, whether employing stealth with the Mute ability or opting for decisive confrontation.

Uncomplicated Controls, Engaging Challenges

Volume’s controls are straightforward and intuitive, allowing the game’s challenges to dwell in the realm of stealth tactics and problem-solving rather than in complex input sequences. Mastery of the core mechanics unravels swiftly, leaving players to focus on tiptoeing past vigilant guards and deftly navigating the virtual obstacle course designed to trip them at every turn.

Endless Replayability

Completing the main story assures only the beginning of what Volume has to offer. Motivated by leaderboards and fueled by a vibrant community, the game encourages players to return and refine their scores. Moreover, the inclusion of user-generated levels adds a layer of perpetual novelty, ensuring that the intrigue of Volume is not a fleeting affair.

In essence, Volume transcends the typical boundaries of a stealth game, evolving into a puzzle-like experience that demands both tactical forethought and in-the-moment ingenuity. Its impeccably designed world, paired with a resonate narrative and methodical gameplay, makes Volume an exemplary title in the stealth strategy genre.

Pros

  • Engaging storyline with dynamic characters
  • Clear, stylish visuals that enhance gameplay
  • Intuitive controls facilitating strategic play
  • Expansive variety of tools and techniques for completing objectives
  • User-generated content vastly extends replayability

Cons

  • Restricted to one active item can limit tactical variety in certain scenarios
  • May not appeal to those seeking traditional action-focused stealth gameplay