This is probably the most well-executed and realized game concept in this jam. I think you have an excellent knack of conjuring what I'm going to call 'the game experience' - the idea that a player is invested in the journey of completing a game and is fully motivated to see what twists and turns that experience takes. I think being able to create something that stimulates that feeling is the sign that you're on the right track of being a developer and have immense talent and creativity to boot.
I know you've created a prior game that explores this theme ('Who Came First') but it seems this one develops the idea in a way that suits the theme of this jam and also illustrates your progression with development. I think this game really takes the concept of an egg trapped in a production machine and runs with it well. I love how the machines become obstacles in many ways that add challenge and gameplay - from eerie sensors, conveyor belts, pumps, and gaping chasms. It's a lot of fun to traverse!
On top of that, the game is striking and beautiful. This is a case of knowing when less is more and utilising monochrome to bring out the large cavernous spaces which would seem underdeveloped in a game that showed them in colour. The soundtrack is similarly excellent and really complements the epic journey of the player as well as the invasive mechanical environment and its respective enemies.
I think the only feedback I can give is in regards to some quirks with movement and camera angles, but it didn't stop me from completing the game and I completed it without a lot of hassle. I had a lot of fun playing this game and strongly suggest that someone throw a lot of money at you to make another!
Thanks for submitting They Came First to the SCREAM MACHINE jam!
- SCREAM CATALOGUE