Starring: an Unavoidable Comparison
The Signal State is an optimization puzzler game made by someone who isn't Zachtronics for once. An exciting concept, as it opens the door for new ideas. New takes. New spins. So, how does The Signal State stand up to its predecessors?
Let's start with complements. The competition has always struggled with difficulty curving, with simple puzzles frequently transitioning into a brick wall. The Signal State avoids this pitfall, providing a steady and engaging ramping-up.
This game also nails its aesthetics. Everything looks real and sounds satisfyingly snappy and clicky.
Moving into a discussion of the game's issues, your rack will very quickly become a confusing mess on even mid-game puzzles. Maybe this is also an aesthetic choice and I don't get it. This is my review, though, and I don't like it.
And now, the big problem. Other optimization puzzlers put a big emphasis on their "optimization" aspect. Not so with The Signal State. Whereas Zachtronics games give you big, unavoidable graphs at the end showing how well you did compared to other players, The Signal State gives you a few numbers off to the side comparing a cumulative score to everyone elses'. Being ahead of a curve gives you a rush of pride. Being behind drives you to go back and improve. "You scored 8045th in the world!" does absolutely nothing. Add to that the fact that cable length is VERY unfun to optimize, and I found myself solving puzzles once and immediately moving on.
I also ran into plenty of solutions that I felt should have worked but sort of just...didn't? I don't know what it is, but modules seem to behave inconsistently sometimes. Maybe I'm imagining it, but I "got too clever" enough times that I have to mention it here.
In conclusion, this is another optimization puzzler. If you've enjoyed Zachtronics' catalogue, you'll probably enjoy this game. If you haven't, you should probably just play a Zachtronics game; they're the same but slightly better.