Developer: Alawar
Platform: PC (Reviewed)
Genre: Adventure, Casual, Simulation
Publisher: Alawar
The Last Gas Station is an indie simulator and adventure game that has been created and published by Alawar. It is set in a near-future world where electric cars are dominating; the game places you in charge of the last remaining gas stations. Inheriting a gas station from a missing previous owner, with strange warning hints of dangerous things lurking nearby. The game gradually unfolds its mystery through different environmental storytelling; rather than something fast-paced, it lets you ease into the game and enjoy the management with subtle tension, making the game engaging.
The core of the game is that it is a management simulator with some narrative elements. But players are expected to clean and restore the rundown gas station, manage inventory, pricing and customer service, expand services, customise the station and store layout, and serve customers in real time. The gameplay is looped, but it’s able to balance efficiently with expansion feeling satisfying, especially as the station evolves from a rundown shack into a thriving roadside hub. But there is a twist where you are repeatedly warned not to go outside at night; the game has a subtle layer of tension that gets introduced earlier on, and with the town’s gossip and tales, things can get more in demand.
The art style of the game is the first thing that lured me in, with its colourful and cosy visuals, its pixel art-inspired and 2D gameplay. The contrast in the game is key, from the bright daytime aesthetics contrasted with the darker nighttime tones, as the vibe shifts into something more mysterious once the night falls. The music isn’t a full soundtrack, but it’s relaxing with its ambient sound and the subtle atmospheric sounds; it’s cosy but does feel suspenseful at times.
The controls are simple and intuitive, making it accessible for all players. I do love that the controls are mainly focused on the keyboard, and the mouse is mainly used for the early cash register phase and the handing of change back to the customers. The controls are simple and allow the players to truly relax into the game and feel at ease without having to worry about anything too difficult.
Overall, I truly enjoyed the game. I think it’s brilliant. I love how they made unlocking new levels of the gas station all so different. So each time you level up, so much gets added to the game, so as soon as it starts to feel repetitive, you can do so much. The Last Gas Station stands out to me, as it’s an addictive management gameplay loop with a unique blend of a cosy sim and mystery. It has an incredibly strong atmosphere and tone in contrast with progression and customisation.
Overall: 9/10
This is S & S. We are world game explorers. We play games. We have played over 10,000+ games! We travel, we write reviews AND we play more games!!!!
