ONESHOT WIKI
Generally favorable reviews from critics! This game is very darn good!
OneShot
Developer(s): Future Cat
Composer(s): Nightmargin, Eliza Velasquez, Michael Shirt
Engine: RPG Maker 2003, RPG Maker XP
Platform(s): Windows, macOS, Linux, Switch, PS4, Xbox One
Release Date: July 30, 2019
Genre(s): Adventure, puzzle
Mode(s): Single-player
OneShot is an adventure game that was created by the indie studio Future Cat. It was initially released as a free version in 2014 and later became available on Steam on December 8, 2016, and itch.io on March 12, 2020. On September 22, 2022, a console-adapted version called OneShot: World Machine Edition was released for Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.
Gameplay
OneShot is a game where the main character, Niko, is put into an unknown world without sunlight. The game is played from Niko’s perspective, while the player is a separate character identified by their user account. If Niko rests during the game, the program will close and a brief dream sequence will play when it is reopened.
The gameplay involves solving puzzles with items as there is no combat system in the game. Players can use items to interact with specific locations or combine them to make something new. Throughout the game, computers appear, indicating that players need to find content outside the game, such as in the file system. They can also lead to interacting with the player’s operating system in other ways, such as moving the game window off-screen and back to mimic developing film, or by gaining clues from the desktop wallpaper. The in-game instructions recommend playing in windowed mode due to these concepts. The console version, called OneShot: World Machine Edition, uses a simulated operating system to let players interact with the game as they would a computer.
Story
In this game, you assume the role of God responsible for leading Niko, the main character, through a peculiar universe filled with robots. Your objective is to safeguard the planet and help Niko return to their home.
How long is OneShot?
When it comes to the primary goals, OneShot typically takes around 4 and a half hours to complete. However, if you’re a dedicated gamer who wants to experience every aspect of the game, it might take you approximately 8 and a half hours to achieve 100% completion.
Reception
The full version of OneShot was well-received by reviewers overall. The game was praised for its story, music and clever puzzles. OneShot received a nomination for the “PC Game of the Year” award at the Golden Joystick Awards in 2017.