Read on for our first impressions. Read on for our first impressions.
Created by solo developer Lakuza, this action-adventure title is more than just a game; it’s a testament to what can be achieved in user-generated content platforms without a traditional game development background.
Captured using VRChat for PCVR
Set inside VRChat’s diverse ecosystem, Bullet Time Agent puts players into the role of a thief turned hero. After being given the task of retrieving a mysterious object that bestows unexpectedly time manipulation abilities upon the player, things take an unexpected turn. This power isn’t just for show; it’s a fundamental mechanic woven into the game’s fabric, creating layers of bullet-hell combat, puzzle-solving, and platforming challenges.
Emerging from its modest beginnings as a prototype and developed over more than three years, Bullet Time Agent reflects an innovative use of VRChat. Lakuza was able to bypass traditional coding obstacles and focus on the design and user experience by using VRChat. Lakuza responded:
“I am not a programmer as I don’t use c# to write code. I do however, utilize coding concepts. The plugin for unity that is specifically designed for vrchat allows you to select an action from a menu, and then choose a target. It compiles the code behind the scenes based on the selections I make, which allows anyone to build logic without any training. Since I started making worlds in 2018, I gradually learned how to make conditions and variables using the drop-down menus. VRChat supports different ways to create worlds. This includes actual coding, for those who prefer it. CyanTrigger is a free plugin that world makers can use. Captured with VRChat PCVR
The “death-rewind” gameplay of Bullet Time Agent requires players to strategize in each battle. The checkpoints make sure that progress is not lost. However, the limited rewinds for boss battles encourage players to react and think in new ways, increasing tension and rewarding persistent play. It’s exhilarating when you can manipulate the time to slow down swarms and destroy them with one punch. Images provided by Lakuza.
While the multiplayer feature of VRChat adds an element of co-operative play to Bullet Time Agent. If you are a friend, remember that most of the time, you will be tagging along. Lakuza is currently using a unique workaround for saving the game untill an update is released. Currently Lakuza is using a unique workaround for saving the game untill the update is released.
Captured using VRChat for PCVR
Game saves using his method are done through the generation of a long hash code that users copy into their computer’s clipboard and then save into a document for retrieval on their next play through by reversing the process.
Captured using VRChat for PCVRVRChat’s native persistence updateBullet Time Agent is available through both the PCVR and Quest versions of VRChat. Bullet Time Agent is playable in its entirety on PCVR. Quest’s stage one is split into three worlds. The PCVR version has lower resolution textures and some missing lighting effects. Lower resolution textures and some missing lighting and environmental effects are noticeably absent, making the PCVR version the one to play if graphics are important to your enjoyment of VR content.
Comparison of Meta Quest 3 and PCVR
After playing the early access preview on both systems, it’s apparent that Bullet Time Agent is pushing the boundaries of VRChat’s framework, especially for Quest. Puzzles, combat, and platforming elements are all excellent. Combined with great graphics, sound, and voice work, this VRChat game stands shoulder to shoulder with many of the mainstream VR offerings we see on Steam or the Quest store.
According to a recent post by Lakuza, Bullet Time Agent will officially launch inside VRChat on 11/22/2024, with a launch event party planned for 11/21 on the eve of the game’s release.
We’re excited to see more titles like this coming to the VRChat platform, so if you know of any we should check out, please tell us about them at [email protected].