Platforming cliches deconstructed

G-E-N-E-R-I-C is an indie platformer, described by its developer as ‘a bit boring’, and features such innovations as jumping on enemies to kill them.

Control is via the keyboard, using A and D to move, plus W or Space to jump. You have to collect a certain amount of coins in each room to proceed. For a couple of levels, G-E-N-E-R-I-C plays exactly like a generic platform game, until you get to a level which is apparently impossible. At this point, you will either discover there is something more to G-E-N-E-R-I-C than meets the eye, or you’ll be stuck forever. It would be unfair to say more.

This is a cheerful but purposely bland looking game, with almost everything about the sprites and backgrounds being complete video game clichés. G-E-N-E-R-I-C’s music is also exactly what you’d expect. It should be boring, like the developer says, but the surprise mechanic makes it really enjoyable.

G-E-N-E-R-I-C is a highly recommended experience, which should at the very least amuse you. It’s occasionally tricky, but always enjoyable.