Recent reviews by Linear Monolithic

Firstly, do not go into this expecting more of what HM1 offered you. While the two games share a similar basic formula, HM2 places more emphasis on larger levels requiring you to use firearms much more often. That being said, there are also some very cramped levels where you can melee away to your hearts content, but be forewarned. Another difference is in the story. HM2 has a much MUCH more fleshed out story with some very clever plot twists and interconnections that make full use of the fact that there are several playable characters this time around. Without giving too much away, let me also warn you that you will get a case of the feels from this game. With those major differences out of the way, the first thing you will notice is the soundtrack. Buy it ASAP. There are 49 tracks, 3.5 hours worth of fantastic music. The music is slightly darker this time around but just as excellent (my personal favourite is "The Way Home" (muh feels)). The new graphical effects are also a welcome addition; the game does a damn god job of making it seem like you're watching a VHS tape.

Excuse this review for being a bit of a ramble, but I've literally just finished the game and I'm still pleasantly blown away. In short, buy the game, buy the soundtrack, have a damn good time.

This is a game that provides more of an experience than a challenge. That isn't to say this game isn't challenging, as some of the puzzles, especially the later ones, will likely have you scratching your head and pushing you closer and closer to the temptation of steam guides. Rather, the puzzles of the game are overshadowed by the overall atmosphere. This is a game that really does deserve to be played with the lights down, the volume up and no distractions. The world and the art style is simply beautiful which, coupled with the superb analog-sounding synths provides both a relaxing and an empowering experience. Each puzzle solved reastores areas of the world back to life, turning a cold, lifeless wasteland into a thing of beauty.

How much you enjoy FRACT OSC will depend on how much you enjoy synthesizers. If you're the kind of person who can tell your VCO from your VCA, use an envelope for things besides posting letters and consider a delay to be a desirable thing, the puzzles will only be part of the attraction. FRACT also provides a feature-rich studio that produces some amazingly warm sounds which will keep you busy for some time. And if you're not a synthesizer fan? Well, perhaps the easy to use interface (which can be toggled between basic, abstract controls to something that wouldn't look out of place in the Death Star's control room) will convince you otherwise.

All in all, it's a great game with a beautiful art style, brilliant sound and a fantastic atmosphere. If you have any interest in synthesizers or music in general, pick this game up.