The game is, on the whole, exactly what you might expect – a series of abstract logic puzzles around manipulating inputs into outputs, somewhat akin to algorithmic programming. It introduces the core concepts in simple scenarios so you can understand the mechanics of the environment, then builds from those into more sophisticated exercises in applied thinking. The game delivers.

Don’t be put off by mentions of synthesisers if that’s not something you’re familiar with. I’ve never touched one myself but there’s nothing so domain-specific that it could be an impediment to understanding. In fact the introductory for the concept-introducing levels always have clear “I know what these words mean” and “I need some background” options so you shouldn’t feel talked-down to or left in the dark.

The production value is great. You would have seen how the patching looks in levels, and the non-level art is similarly nice. Music is also good; perhaps gets a bit samey when repeating across consecutive levels but never tiring. Unfortunately there doesn’t appear to be an OST offered anywhere so you’ll have to resort to semi-suspect methods to listen outside the game. In theory, of course…

I rather liked the “wholesome apocalypse” setting. Rather than scavenging and the like, from the outset it’s established that there are already communities of farmers with stable food and shelter. It’s nice.

Unfortunately, the Signal State does veer somewhat on the short side. It took about two or three sessions to get through everything – the tougher optional levels as well as some bonus challenge achievements. There is a sandbox and workshop levels I haven’t looked at, which no doubt offer far more, but wouldn’t have that same sort of progression and focus towards an end.

In summary: doesn’t disappoint, but won’t take too long to get through.

The game is, on the whole, exactly what you might expect – a series of abstract logic puzzles around manipulating inputs into outputs, somewhat akin to algorithmic programming. It introduces the core concepts in simple scenarios so you can understand the mechanics of the environment, then builds from those into more sophisticated exercises in applied thinking. The game delivers. Don’t be put off by mentions of synthesisers if that’s not something you’re familiar with. I’ve never touched one myself but there’s nothing so domain-specific that it could be an impediment to understanding. In fact the introductory for the concept-introducing levels always have clear “I know what these words mean” and “I need some background” options so you shouldn’t feel talked-down to or left in the dark. The production value is great. You would have seen how the patching looks in levels, and the non-level art is similarly nice. Music is also good; perhaps gets a bit samey when repeating across consecutive levels but never tiring. Unfortunately there doesn’t appear to be an OST offered anywhere so you’ll have to resort to semi-suspect methods to listen outside the game. In theory, of course… I rather liked the “wholesome apocalypse” setting. Rather than scavenging and the like, from the outset it’s established that there are already communities of farmers with stable food and shelter. It’s nice. Unfortunately, the Signal State does veer somewhat on the short side. It took about two or three sessions to get through everything – the tougher optional levels as well as some bonus challenge achievements. There is a sandbox and workshop levels I haven’t looked at, which no doubt offer far more, but wouldn’t have that same sort of progression and focus towards an end. In summary: doesn’t disappoint, but won’t take too long to get through.