Game Classification

Stream is a first-person game set in a monochrome world where the player needs to traverse different areas, using time manipulation as the main game mechanic. This is based on four actions: pause, play, forward, and rewind, which can be executed at any moment. While the player keeps moving in real-time, the time flow of the environment can be altered to move platforms or bring back stairs for instance. All control over the environment is however indirect. Aside from a number of switches that can be activated, the flow and structure of the surroundings and structures cannot be changed permanently in any way.

Each area holds a number of exploration puzzles based on time manipulation that needs to be solved to reach the exit. For instance, a moving platform that reaches a fork can be brought back to investigate another entrance, or steps that disappear briefly can be paused to traverse a gap. In another section a raising platform can be sped up in time to launch the player's character at a great height. All time manipulation however only influences black objects. White objects cannot be manipulated by the player and move regardless of the time actions. That way black and white objects often need to be lined up to create temporary passages, or white objects can be turned black.

Next to the time manipulation controls, the player can move and look into any direction, along with the ability to jump. There are six levels in total, divided over three floors accessed through an elevator. [source:mobygames]

Distribution : Retail - Commercial
Platform(s) : Browser (Flash) - PC (Windows)

Links

• http://www.mobygames.com/game/stream_/