Ever since the rise of multiplayer games, more and more titles have relied almost solely on the mechanic to offer fun gaming experiences. But more importantly, these titles have allowed people to connect and create their own stories in a virtual playground created by the developers. With this in mind, Obsidian Entertainment's newest title, Grounded, is unique in that regard.
Obsidian Entertainment has been known for games like Fallout: New Vegas, South Park: The Stick of Truth and The Outer Worlds, to name a few. These games have proven that the creators are skilled at world-building. Outside influences have helped tremendously in letting players feel connected to their titles. For example, Grounded has become something of a spiritual game version of Honey, I Shrunk the Kids.
What Is Grounded About?
Grounded is a multiplayer story about four kids who are shrunk down to the size of ants in their backyard. However, the technology to reverse the effects of the shrinking has been heavily damaged, making an immediate fix impossible. Instead, the players must work together to survive in an RPG-style story, facing bugs, spiders and environmental threats.
Part of what has made Grounded such a unique yet entertaining entry is its gameplay mechanics and heavy reliance on the narrative to push the game forward. From the start, players must focus on survival in all aspects, from overall health to hunger, stamina and hydration. They also have to hunt and scavenge for weapons, food and the occasional inorganic energy source like a juice box. Over time, a substantial shelter can be crafted through resources, and tools and weapons can be made strong enough to combat the larger creatures in the backyard.
How Is Grounded Similar To Honey, I Shrunk the Kids?
Aside from scavenging and facing down large creatures, the very spirit of Grounded feels similar to Honey, I Shrunk the Kids. For starters, the game allows for a four-player multiplayer experience where each group member is a child, just like in the film. Also, the sense of scale, as well as the perils that come with it, is one of the most important parts of the game, the same as in the movie. Grounded gives players all the tools they need to survive and rewards those with the creativity and survivalist sense to create items and protect themselves and others.
The game has also brought to life the movie's theme of teamwork, as in both, teamwork is necessary to continue the story and eventually return to normal size. Grounded looks to take narrative-driven multiplayer stories to a whole new level. However, not nodding to the film that made it feel like a long-lost friend would feel criminal. Honey, I Shrunk the Kids obviously played a huge part in Grounded's development, and while the film has a set run time, this interactive experience could go on forever and feel like a new experience each time.