Many independent developers enter the scene working on their own intellectual property, utilizing specific aesthetics, genre, or gameplay mechanic motifs and gimmicks in order to differentiate themselves from their contemporaries. Whether it's arcade action, retro difficulty and aesthetic, or something completely new and unheard of, this industry is often where you'll find the most unique, engrossing, and/or charming experiences from Western and European developers, in contrast with the wacky nature of high-profile Japanese games and over-serious, rote triple-A Western games. Yes, I know I am going to be slaughtered for that comment. A particular developer whose works have remained aesthetically consistent is Image and Form, a Swedish development studio and creator of the SteamWorld series. What is so impressive about their works is that, despite each entry in the SteamWorld series belonging to different genres, the quality of gameplay has been consistent, engaging, and most ...