Ellipsis (2017)

Mastering Ellipsis' tricky stages can require a great deal of skill and patience so it makes for a rather rewarding formula.

With its minimalist presentation and gameplay variations, Ellipsis accurately captures the positives and negatives of classic arcade games. There's not enough here to warrant lengthy gameplay sessions, but it's fun in short bursts and looks great all the while.

It's impressive how the minimalist approach cultivates such energy with so little, and also how sustaining that approach is for Ellipsis in its design. While this game is not technically a piece of minimalist art, it is a very coherent marriage of the methodology behind it with the creative domain of video games. For this reason, it absolutely can be valued for its aesthetic qualities, just like a painting hung on the wall, and perhaps used for inspiration, or just to chill out after a long day. Whatever is abstract is also open to many different interpretations, so different gamers may respond differently to its creative ethos, but overall there's no doubt that Ellipsis should be recognised for its accessibility, polish and purpose. This is a simple game with a thoughtful soul. Much work has gone into it, and for those who appreciate great game design, it is certainly one to check out. Fingers crossed for a Nintendo Switch edition one day, as well.

Ellipsis is a fun game that will redefine what you think minimal games can offer. You will be challenged, you will evolve, and leave all the better.