Universe for Sale

My feelings are mixed on Universe For Sale. As a point and click game heavily focused on narrative, it has an understandably light touch on gameplay. I enjoyed the mini-games, particularly the re-wiring activity in the market. The universe creation was my favourite aspect of the gameplay, though this was slightly marred by my buggy experience. In terms of the story, it’s serviceable. But I feel like sometimes certain elements were not explored far enough, and I was perhaps overly confused on my first play through. Especially in regards to the sequence of events. The art throughout the game is the most outstanding element. In fact it’s perhaps reason enough on its own to check the game out. Ultimately, Tmesis Studio’s first game has put them on my list of developers to keep an eye on. Universe For Sale signals that this team have the ability to create gorgeous games. They have some interesting world-building ideas floating around that just need a little more refining and some more room to shine. This talented group have a bright future, and I’m excited to see what they will move onto next. Universe For Sale receives a Thumb Culture Silver Award.

Universe for Sale is a visual novel that will challenge genre and sci-fi fans thematically and structurally. While the graphics are certainly the highlight, the game's story and characters are unique enough to hold your attention when the puzzles and pacing slow things down.

Pulls you in with its distinctive art style, vision of the world, and non-linear story if you’re game for the journey

Hand-drawn point and click narrative-driven experience in which you'll create a universe or two

When I saw the trailer for Universe of Sale, I was intrigued by the art style and the story, but I didn’t expect it to quickly become one of my favorite games of the year. It is a well-crafted game worth experiencing, and I’ll keep thinking of it for a while.

A complex and dense non-linear story told in one of the best art designs of this year.