- Graphics
- Sound
- Interface
- Originality
Paperback self-help books and just about every sitcom on television love to repeat phrases such as “family matters most”. Well, how about a free browser game that iterates on the same idea, only in a completely non-cheesy/sappy way? All That Matters is a puzzle platform game by Ali Bati where you play as a father trying to reunite with his family. In actuality, you’ll control every member of Walter’s little clan, using their unique abilities to solve puzzles and make it to the exit portal in each stage. Sort of like Home Sheep Home 2, but without the wool.
Walter is the central character in All That Matters, and you’ll control him with the W, A, S and D keys, moving left and right and jumping across gaps. You can flip levers and the like by pressing the spacebar. Even though their controls are similar, each member of Walter’s family has a different quirk you’ll need to learn to use. For example, his son can double jump, which is useful for grabbing out-of-the-way collectible hearts. Little baby Greer can’t jump, but he can roll and dash with the best of them. Walter’s wife does exactly the opposite of what Walter does, but when he’s on the screen and you control her, Walter mirrors her movements exactly. You can switch characters by using the number keys, and the puzzle options that open up once you get bigger, tougher levels are enormous.
All That Matters is a game that looks and sounds a little choppy at times, but the gameplay makes up for any shortcomings in the presentation. The sound effects are a little excessive, and before long you’ll probably want to silence the whole game so you don’t have to hear everyone gulp in air when they jump. Even with those oddities, All That Matters delivers a fresh, fun, and wholly satisfying puzzle experience, one that will keep you busy for a few hours, too!
Play All That Matters!
