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On first impressions I was very impressed with MyTribe, not only was the publishers website attractive but the game was multi-platform. As a Linux user support for my chosen platform is very important. The requirements for Linux systems was unfortunately not very informative. Upon downloading the Linux Demo I discovered that the game required Glibc 2.4, something that the website had not divulged. The required library could easily be installed, however it may break the functionality of other programs on the system. The publisher could, however, easily rectify this issue by adding GlibC 2.4 to the minimum requirement list. This way Users would be aware of the requirement before potentially purchasing the game, and so it is less likely that a user may want a refund.

As I was unwilling to upgrade my version of GlibC I instead downloaded the Windows version and ran it in a Windows Compatibility layer - Cedega. Running a program in this manner does have some performance drawbacks, so I was surprised to find that the game ran smoothly with no apparent 'lag'. In comparison to most modern games, the graphics are very simple. However it is clear that the game was designed in this manner, and this choice lends an element of nostalgia to the game. Even in the compatibility layer (with a myriad of other programs running in the background) the game functioned smoothly.

I found the game slightly reminiscent of 'Populous' with it's somewhat basic storyline somehow dragging you deep into the game. There develops a sort of need to get your tribe developed, and to find out what the 'Mystery Objects' are.

The game tutorial, whilst helpful is somewhat short-lived, it gives you the basic information but there seems to be no information on how to advance to the next Technology Level, or how to work out which potion does what. Once you have worked these things out for yourself the lack of information is far less troubling.

The game does include sound effects, and they are strangely in keeping with the simple appearance of the game. Overall the game is pretty good at absorbing your entire attention.

Using a one hour trial it is very difficult to ascertain the true functionality of the game when your computer is not running. I did try adjusting my system clock so that I could see how my Tribe would look in a months time, unfortunately however the game decided that my trial had finished.

I would rate this game 4/5, whilst the game play is reasonably addictive I do not feel the need to buy the game. I enjoyed playing it, and at $19.95 it is certainly a bargain, but I wouldn't go out of my way to purchase the game. If a native linux version could be produced that didn't require me to update such a core library then I would be more likely to consider it, but until such a client is released, or I update my system I am unlikely to purchase this game, despite its fantastic gameplay.

Learn more about this author, Ben Tasker.
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