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Ben and Ed

PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2015

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Quick resume

Ben and Ed is a 3D platformer, in which the player controls Ed the Zombie, who is forced to participate in a grotesque game show called "Rundead". Will he beat all obstacles Hans Showmaster confronts him with, to save his best friend Ben?

Global score

83/100

Genres

Action, Adventure, Indie, Platform

Pros

  • Unique dismemberment mechanics
  • Challenging and addictive gameplay
  • Humorous and creative level design
  • Engaging soundtrack and atmosphere
  • Good value especially on sale

Cons

  • Frustrating controls and physics bugs
  • Short main campaign
  • Some levels feel unfair or repetitive
  • Lack of multiplayer or cooperative modes
  • Occasional performance and optimization issues

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    3

    "Players control Ed's movements and decisions freely, including creative use of dismemberment mechanics and throwing the head."

  • Competence
    4

    "The game is challenging with precise platforming and timing, requiring skill to overcome difficult obstacles and bosses."

  • Competition
    -3

    "Focus is on personal progression and mastery rather than direct competition; no multiplayer or leaderboards emphasized."

  • Continuation
    3

    "Players report habitual play, replaying levels for collectibles and challenges, despite frustration and rage moments."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "Single-player only; no cooperative or multiplayer modes in base game."

  • Creativity
    4

    "Unique gameplay with dismemberment mechanics and creative level design; players experiment with body parts and movement."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No evidence of exerting control or superiority over others; gameplay is individual and non-confrontational."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Players use the game as a fun distraction and stress relief despite its difficulty and frustration."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of interest and enjoyment, not obligation or external pressure."

  • Experimenting
    4

    "Players try different ways to progress with dismembered limbs, throwing heads, and exploring level secrets."

  • Exploration
    3

    "Some exploration of hidden areas, secrets, and easter eggs within levels is encouraged."

  • Expression
    -3

    "Limited character customization; expression mainly through gameplay style rather than avatar personalization."

  • Fantasy
    4

    "Imaginative setting with zombies, dismemberment, and surreal game show environment."

  • Fellowship
    -4

    "Mostly solo play with minimal social interaction; community exists but gameplay is individual."

  • Growth
    3

    "Players develop platforming skills and learn level patterns to improve performance."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay with no physical activity involved."

  • Idle
    -4

    "Requires focused attention and continuous engagement due to challenging platforming."

  • Intimacy
    -5

    "No close social or emotional relationships formed through gameplay."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership roles or group management; purely single-player experience."

  • Progression
    3

    "Players collect items and unlock bonus levels; progression through levels and achievements."

  • Relaxation
    -3

    "Game induces frustration and tension due to difficulty; not primarily relaxing."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Bright visuals, intense music, and dynamic physics provide sensory stimulation."

  • Status
    -4

    "Achievements exist but social recognition or popularity is not a major motivator."

  • Story
    2

    "There is a narrative with some plot and atmosphere, but story is secondary to gameplay."

  • Strategy
    2

    "Some planning and timing required to navigate obstacles, but mostly reflex-based platforming."

  • Thrill
    4

    "High tension and suspense from narrowly avoiding deadly traps and progressing under pressure."

  • Value
    3

    "Generally considered good value for price, especially on sale, with replayability through challenges."

  • Violence
    4

    "Enjoyment of cartoonish dismemberment and gore is a core part of the game experience."

  • Survival
    3

    "Avoiding death and overcoming hazards is central to gameplay, though in a fantastical context."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026