Yummy Games presents Project Tower, a futuristic bullet-hell challenge. Breathtaking animation meets a rather mediocre story – can Project Tower win you over?
The four-person development team at Yummy Games has launched Project Tower, a modern sci-fi shooter with a Bullet-Hell twist.
Players battle through relentless waves of alien attackers, facing formidable creatures that block their ascent through the tower's levels.
Despite its elaborate animations and immersive atmosphere, early feedback suggests the game falls short with a lackluster story and static combat mechanics.
Project Tower debuted on Steam and PlayStation 5 on January 6, 2025, and has received a positive reception from 84% of its 34 reviews on steam.
Escape the Hiks
In Project Tower, Earth has been overrun by an alien species, the Hiks, who have enslaved or imprisoned much of humanity.
The Hiks seek to forge a powerful army by challenging the strongest survivors in the Tower Project.
Players must face these challenges head-on, battling alien creatures and solving intricate puzzles.
The wait is over! Project Tower is officially out NOW on Steam and PS5! Fight. Morph. Survive.Are you ready to climb the tower and reclaim your freedom? Play now: https://t.co/p6G82jh2o5 pic.twitter.com/IZmTQgHbLn
— Project Tower | WISHLIST NOW (@YummyGames_) January 6, 2025
To aid in their journey, the Hiks grant players a morphing ability, allowing them to transform into various alien forms.
This power helps deceive enemies or unlock paths otherwise inaccessible to humans. For instance, you can slither through tight spaces as an alien worm or adopt a more powerful form for combat.
However, the morphing ability isn't limitless. Specific transformations are necessary at certain points to progress through the game.
Morphing into a Murloc? Nice.
— Asch of Apokolips (@Asch790) January 7, 2025
The Hiks use these trials to gather valuable data, aiming to strengthen their forces.
Each level culminates in a boss fight, delivered in classic Bullet-Hell style, with thousands of projectiles to dodge while taking down the boss.
Although visually stunning, these battles often lack challenge.
Too static?
With just two days since its release, it's early to gauge the full community sentiment. However, initial reactions have been generally positive:
Gorgeous graphics and music, beautiful particles and lighting, fun gameplay! Can't believe it just this small team! Congratulations
— Marco Antonio #StellarBlade (@MarcoPlayS07) January 7, 2025
The graphics are a standout feature, but is that enough for a compelling sci-fi shooter?
Early reviews point out the static nature of combat, a critical shortcoming in a shooter-heavy game.
NPCs don’t defend themselves effectively, instead opting to unleash random volleys of bullets.
The boss fights, while visually impressive, feel more like repetitive target practice than engaging battles.
Comparisons have already been drawn to titles like Returnal or the Tower of Sisyphus DLC, which execute similar mechanics with more flair and dynamism.
The puzzles and platforming elements, such as wall-running, also come under fire for being overly complex or feeling like a matter of luck rather than skill.
Try Before You Buy
Until January 13, players can enjoy a 20% discount on Project Tower via Steam and also try a free demo.
Available on both Steam and the PlayStation Store, the demo offers a glimpse into the game's atmosphere and mechanics, giving potential players a chance to see if it’s the right fit for them.
Will you give it a shot? Share your thoughts on the game’s style in the comments below!