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I am not a Monster: First Contact

PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2018

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Quick resume

Retro sci-fi tactical turn-based strategy with an exciting storyline. The Albatross space liner is overrun by lizard-like monsters that can infect humans and turn them into their own kind. Save the passengers and defeat the hostile creatures.

Global score

77/100

Genres

Indie, Role-playing (RPG), Strategy, Turn-based strategy (TBS), Tactical, Adventure

Pros

  • Unique blend of turn-based tactics and social deduction
  • Engaging and lengthy single-player campaign
  • Strong retro sci-fi aesthetic and story
  • Deep tactical gameplay with weapon-item combinations
  • Challenging and rewarding difficulty curve

Cons

  • Small multiplayer playerbase and matchmaking issues
  • Limited maps and game modes
  • Steep learning curve and minimal tutorial support
  • Save system can be frustrating with limited checkpoints
  • Some ui and control clunkiness reported

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players have control over tactical decisions, equipment loadouts, and strategic planning in turn-based combat."

  • Competence
    4

    "The game offers challenging tactical gameplay with a steep learning curve and rewards skillful planning and execution."

  • Competition
    3

    "Multiplayer involves deception and outsmarting others, but playerbase is small and multiplayer is less emphasized than single-player."

  • Continuation
    3

    "Players report long campaigns and engaging gameplay that encourages repeated attempts and extended play sessions."

  • Cooperation
    2

    "Multiplayer mode involves teamwork and social deduction, but many players focus on solo campaign or small friend groups."

  • Creativity
    3

    "Players combine weapons and items to create unique abilities, encouraging experimentation with loadouts and tactics."

  • Domination
    -2

    "Multiplayer emphasizes deception and social deduction rather than outright domination or power over others."

  • Escapism
    4

    "The retro sci-fi setting and immersive story provide a strong escape from reality and stress relief."

  • Expectation
    -3

    "Players engage out of intrinsic interest and enjoyment rather than obligation; some frustration noted but overall voluntary play."

  • Experimenting
    4

    "Game encourages trying new tactics, weapon-item combos, and adapting strategies to unique mission challenges."

  • Exploration
    1

    "Limited maps and modes but missions introduce new twists and environments within the ship setting."

  • Expression
    2

    "Players can customize characters with skins and unlock cosmetic upgrades, though core gameplay is fixed."

  • Fantasy
    5

    "Strongly themed around imaginative 1950s sci-fi, pulp fiction, and alien invasion fantasy."

  • Fellowship
    2

    "Community interaction occurs mainly in multiplayer with friends; some social features but limited by playerbase."

  • Growth
    3

    "Players develop tactical skills and knowledge of game mechanics through challenging missions and trial-and-error."

  • Health
    -4

    "Primarily a sedentary, screen-based game with no physical activity elements."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention and planning; not suited for casual or background play."

  • Intimacy
    1

    "Some social interaction and teamwork in multiplayer, but limited emotional sharing or close relationships."

  • Leadership
    1

    "Some multiplayer roles may involve guiding or influencing others, but no strong emphasis on leadership."

  • Progression
    3

    "Players accumulate weapons, items, and unlock cosmetic upgrades; campaign progression unlocks new challenges."

  • Relaxation
    1

    "Game can be tense and challenging, but also provides flow and immersion for players who enjoy tactical puzzles."

  • Sensation
    2

    "Enjoyable retro visuals, music, and sound design provide sensory pleasure and thematic immersion."

  • Status
    0

    "No strong emphasis on social recognition or leaderboards; cosmetic unlocks provide some visibility."

  • Story
    4

    "Narrative-driven single-player campaign with engaging characters, plot twists, and retro sci-fi storytelling."

  • Strategy
    5

    "Core gameplay revolves around deep tactical planning, problem solving, and simultaneous turn execution."

  • Thrill
    3

    "Tense social deduction and combat moments create suspense and excitement."

  • Value
    3

    "Players find good value in the long campaign and unique gameplay for the price, especially on sale."

  • Violence
    3

    "Combat and defeating monsters are central mechanics, with tactical shooting and melee attacks."

  • Survival
    4

    "Gameplay focuses on avoiding failure, managing resources, and protecting team members from infection."

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