CHKN FOR MAC

Sandbox-style building games have an undeniable appeal, as it is very exciting to be given the freedom to create something unique using some basic building blocks and seeing where your imagination takes you.

Titles such as Minecraft have proven that this type of gameplay can be immensely fun, and CHKN follows similar principles, but with a twist: instead of building structures, you create life.

It is important to note that CHKN is still in the initial stages of development. It is due to launch in Early Access soon, at which point an adventure mode, which will introduce exploration and survival mechanics, is to be implemented.

This demo version is only meant to provide a glimpse into the basic gameplay style, but there is simply not that much to do. You have a fairly small area you can move around in, as well as a large supply of life blocks, which are the basis of your imaginative creations.

After you enter build mode, you are free to fly around within the designated build area. Your inventory is packed with life blocks that can be combined to create truly bizarre lifeforms. Given the endless possibilities, you may be surprised at the whacky ideas your brain can come up with.

Mind you, the controls can be a bit frustrating, as it is sometimes difficult to target the right blocks and arrange them properly. However, switching to first-person mode does seem to make things easier.

If you are pleased with the monstrosity you have put together, you can exit the build area and interact with your creation. Again, there is not much you can do at this point, but some very interesting mechanics are planned for future releases.

Once the game is launched in early access, or perhaps further on, bonding with creatures will be essential, and various types of building blocks will promote different emotions. Survival will be difficult, if not impossible, without a cuddly (or fearsome) companion at your side.

CHKN certainly shows a lot of promise, and you should definitely try out this demo if you want to get an idea of what may be in store once the full game is launched.