JCB Pioneer: Mars

The concept of JCB Pioneer: Mars, in isolation, is potentially interesting. The Switch version, however, presents so many obstacles to gameplay that I feel comfortable calling it unplayable. The release of games like this and ARK: Survival Evolved draw into question the existence of Nintendo's quality control. Products like this are an embarrassment to Nintendo's digital offerings.

There may be something here for you if you’re looking for a game that simulates the experience of planetary colonization so accurately that it includes every ounce of tedium that would come from a solitary life as a Martian colonist. There is also something to be said for being able to take this game on the go, if that’s your thing. However, for a product which fails to inspire a sense of mystery and wonder beyond its opening moments and which is still so rough around the edges, there are simply better, more enriching and more engaging options for your money on the Switch. In other words, don’t listen to Hauser; don’t get your ass to Mars.

In spite of a fairly interesting and unique set piece, JCB Pioneer: Mars never quite manages to take advantage of its Martian background.

After a relatively brief tutorial that introduces you to some of the aspects of the game but hardly all for the most part you’re going to be shoved out of the nest and expected to figure the rest out...