Review in short
HyperDot is perfect. Not only is it one of the most entertaining arcade games I've played in years, its hidden therapeutic qualities for physically disabled players cannot be emphasized enough.
Score
10 out of 10Full review
Game reviewed on PC.
Review copy provided courtesy of Glitch.
Rarely do I find myself playing a game that is pure perfection, both in terms of entertainment and physical accessibility. Despite studios emphasizing accessible options and features, modern titles still include troublesome button mashing sequences, quick-timed events or even prohibit players from fully customizing controls. HyperDot’s highly addictive gameplay is proof that entertainment and accessibility can peacefully coexist to create one of the best experiences I’ve encountered in recent years.
Developed by Tribe Games, and published by Glitch, HyperDot tasks individuals with controlling a single dot enclosed within a circular arena. The goal is straightforward: avoid everything and anything at all costs. With modes such as Campaign, Level Editor and Multiplayer matchmaking, HyperDot’s level variation is near limitless, captivating me for hours. Thankfully, each extensive playthrough is possible due to the impressive accessibility features.
To coincide with most modern releases, HyperDot allows for full key customization. It even includes the capability to utilize Tobii Eye Tracking software for players with limited range of motion. Yet, HyperDot’s greatest accessibility appeal is that you don’t need these features. The game’s simplistic control scheme translates to all actions being performed through the mouse. Players guide their dot throughout levels by simply moving their cursor. If you can operate a mouse, you can fully enjoy this game.
Since HyperDot’s few physical accessibility features are nothing short of perfection, I’d like to discuss an aspect that has yet to be explored on Can I Play That?. Aside from being a blast to play, HyperDot is therapeutic for physically disabled players.
As an individual with limited mobility, I spend most days parked in front of my computer. My right hand is firmly placed on my keyboard, forever tilted at 2 o’clock. My left hand resides on my mouse with an increased sensitivity that would make The Flash jealous. When I play games, I barely move my left wrist to control my character’s movements. Often, I find myself exhausted after brief gameplay sessions, as the combination of pressing multiple keys, as well as moving my mouse impacts my ability to enjoy new titles. HyperDot’s sole component of mouse movement allows me to exercise my wrist, thus increasing my range of motion.
My first session culminated in over two hours of gameplay, with me beating approximately 40 campaign levels. I forced myself to stop, not because of a lack of energy, but rather because my mother informed me that dinner was on the table. Even as I write this review, I can feel my left hand gliding across the mouse pad at an increased speed. It’s an emotional concept that’s difficult to convey within a simple video game review, but to receive physical benefits from playing a game is an incredible feeling.
HyperDot is simplistic, vastly entertaining and more importantly, incredibly accessible. I implore all physically disabled players to purchase this title. Now if you’ll excuse me, HyperDot is calling out to me for another invigorating therapy session.
