At first appearance, ‘Super Sketch Bob,’ by Waywards Thoughts Interactive, is very much a game that may be judged, trialled and executed from consideration. Small development teams can do wonderful things in small packages, and if you dive down into the layers beyond what is first presented, you will find a solidly entertaining game built with passion.

Super Sketch Bob begins when a magic pencil hurtles from the skies to land in the hands of the game’s stars, Bob and Liz, the wonderful doodles of someone’s imagination. Snapping the magical pencil in half, Liz causes chaos by erasing parts of their Sketchbook world, leaving Bob to redraw what has been undone by his mischievous sister.

It’s a simple story with very few cutscenes, making it not particularly interesting. I do wish it had a bit more substance along the way as anything established at the start is easily forgettable.

There are two modes in this game; Challenge Mode and Free Sketch, the latter being an easier option. Challenge Mode is the guts of the game, sending you into 6 maps with a handful of levels in each. These levels are themed linear platformers where you must run, double jump, and leap from ledge to ledge avoiding obstacles like creatures and spikes to get to the end where you teleport out back to the map.

Along the journey, you learn the skills to draw things like mushroom jump pads, wooden platforms, or even ladders. What sets Challenge Mode aside is the fact that you have a limited number of drawing chances, meaning you need to time or be more strategic with your run-through.

Free Sketch removes this restriction and introduces modifiers that can either challenge or ease you along the way, providing accessible play for all players. Great additions in my opinion, as the gameplay is simple but decently executed enough to be quite fun.

It was great to see that enemies weren’t recycled across the levels. There’s a variety of opponents on offer, whether it be hogs, bats or spiders; some even resulting in boss battles. They also have collectables that assist in adding to time trials and customisation through amazingly funny costumes from pop culture icons.

From David Bowie to Indiana Jones, a mummy from Egypt to Marty McFly, these cute little touches really add some character despite the lack of narrative.

The graphics are very basic, but it really adds to the charm once you get accustomed to it. Despite this though, I can’t help but feel a little more detail could have gone into the overall appearance of the scenery or obstacles as the bold colours and shapes can be a bit harsh on the eyes. Bob, however, even through all his janky movements, is a brilliant little character, especially when he is rocking one of his rad outfits.

While the sound effects are nothing impressive, with generic barks from enemies like Anubis in the sandy levels, or boring crashing sounds of boulders, the music that accompanies each level is energetic and upbeat. I was blown away by how catchy some indie guitar-like tunes actually were.

Super Sketch Bob is far from a polished game, but it has an addictive charm that keeps you coming back for one more try, one more level or even one more hour. Poking fun at themselves with the likes of ‘Badly Drawn Sandworm’ boss battles, this is one unique experience with some seriously unserious entertainment.

Written by: Stacey