Sheep (PC, PlayStation & Game Boy Advance)

Sheep

Developer(s)Mind’s Eye Productions

Publisher(s)Empire Interactive

Released back in 2000 and receiving mixed to positive reviews upon release (including a nomination back in 2005 from Computer Games Magazine for the best classic game of 2000), with most reviewers drawing comparisons to Lemmings, Sheep is a puzzle game whereby players must herd sheep from the start of stages to the end. I went in not expecting much of this game. Since, on the face of it, it was cheap, and primitive-looking upon the first inspection. And seemingly developed on a budget by a somewhat renowned company at the time. However, I wasn’t overly disappointed with the game. Since, though not without its faults, it was fairly enjoyable to play and challenging to boot. 

Graphics – 7/10

As I mentioned previously, Sheep has drawn comparison mostly to games like Lemmings and Worms as in terms of gameplay, it seems to be a game within the same strata. In terms of visuals. However, I began drawing comparisons to the original Blood Omen with its top-down view and pseudo-3D graphics. So much so that I wonder whether or not both games were made on the same engine in fact. The cartoonish aspect also reminded me uniquely of the Toy Story game released on fourth-generation hardware. Where the visuals are concerned, it does have a certain charm to be enjoyed that is comparable to Worms. Between in-game graphics and the various different cutscenes throughout the game. 

Gameplay – 7/10

The concept of gameplay is to try and herd sheep from one end of each level to the other within the time limit allocated. Additional bonus points are up for grabs depending on the time each level is completed. As well as gaining bonus points for herding sheep through additional obstacles across each level. I’d seen herding mechanics in games prior to playing this. Such as in the original Jak and Daxter for example. But nothing anywhere near to this extent or to this level of challenge. Overall I was pleasantly surprised to find out how well this game plays out. And how unique it is compared to most PC games released at the time. 

Controls – 9/10

The mechanics of the game are pretty well thought out and there is a minimalist amount of issues with the controls in conjunction with this. The only problem that I had with the control scheme was that it was a little difficult to get to grips with at first. Especially since it’s not specified at first which buttons do what throughout the tutorial. But once figured out, it’s easy enough to get to grips with. The programming is a little bit questionable since sheep can sometimes veer away regardless of what commands the player gives. But these things aren’t enough to cause too much of an issue throughout playing. 

Lifespan – 4/10

The game can be made to last 3 to 4 hours overall. This is definitely the most disappointing aspect of this game. Since, with a concept as unique as it is, it needs to be made to last as long as possible. And I think it could’ve easily been made to last at least twice as long. It’s surprising to me that the developers chose not to release a sequel as it’s also a formula that could’ve been extensively modified in terms of gameplay as well. It vaguely reminds me of what Hogs of War 2 may have been if it had seen the light of day. 

Storyline – 5/10

The general gist of the plot seems to be that the sheep that are to be herded throughout the game are in fact aliens from another planet and they must be herded in order to stop a mad scientist named Mr. Pear. But it’s not an aspect that adds a great deal to the game. Since throughout, it’s only vaguely touched upon and not ostensibly given any true clarity. So it’s much more difficult to get invested in than in other games. But ultimately it doesn’t bring down the overall experience too much. It’s not truly a game that played for its story. 

Originality – 7/10

As I said, Sheep was one of the more stand-out gaming experiences on PC at the time of its release, as most of what was being released on PC at this time was RTS games or god games. Whilst I didn’t play it when it first came out, I can understand how many gamers who did so would’ve most likely seen it as a breath of fresh air. Especially compared to most other PC games. Whilst playing something more akin to what was being released on home consoles.

Mind’s Eye Productions, throughout the company’s life cycle, would mostly develop games based on popular licenses such as Starsky & Hutch, Thomas the Tank Engine, and Monopoly. So coming up with a unique concept like this would have felt like a breath of fresh air to them as well they would have wanted to put as much effort in as possible and for the most part, that does show. 

Niiutral

To summarize, Sheep is a game that is enjoyable to play, especially for those who are looking for a stern challenge among classic PC titles. Though not without its flaws. It’s a fun game that the developers clearly had a lot of fun creating themselves and stands out as one of their better games before the company’s acquisition by Disney back in 2005. 

Score

39/60

6.5/10 (Above Average)

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