#Bridge Constructor

[olyrik]

We return to the Aperture Science Enrichment Center and experience bridge construction like never before in, Bridge Constructor P0rtal!

Or watch all my other Aperture content I have ever done over on YouTube!

[fridge-reviews]

Bridge Constructor Portal - Blast Review

Developer: Clockstone Steam Deck Compatibility?: Verified Rrp: £7.19 (Gog.com, Humble and Steam)

This is the fifth game in the Bridge Constructor series (I don’t have Bridge Constructor Stunts so I’ve not been able to review it), so it makes a kind of sense that at this point it starts to dip into external franchises. In this case, the franchise in question is the Portal series. For the most part this game plays pretty similarly to others in the Bridge Builder franchise, though this time you’ll make far more use of ramps etc.

What I quite like is that the developers actually brought in the actual voice of Glados rather than try and find a sound alike or simply having text and I’m pleased to announce that she retains her trademark derisive humour and wit.

As I mentioned earlier this game is less about creating a stable and solid bridge (though you will need to do that sometimes) and more about puzzle solving. This is really brought to the fore by the introduction of propulsion and repulsion gel from Portal 2.

I definitely recommend this one, even if you’ve not played the previous games. I really loved working through all the various test chambers.

---- If you’d like to support me I have a Ko-fi, the reviews will continue to be posted donation or not.

[miloscat]

[Review] Bridge Constructor Portal (iOS)

A delightful engineering-ish puzzle game.

The Portal universe is a compelling one, with a strong visual style and sardonic sense of humour. I’ve enjoyed both main first-person entries, the Lego Dimensions content, a fan mod or two, and even tried out the Pinball FX table briefly... and now this (I skipped the more fringe tech demo experiments). A spinoff itself of the popular Bridge Constructor series, where you build structured spans to allow the passage of vehicles, this has a pitch-perfect Aperture Science setting, relevant mechanics such as lasers, buttons, and of course portals, and even a handful of voiced quips from Glados herself.

So, I came for the Portal content but I stayed for the building puzzles. I spent a lot of time with Armadillo Run in my adolescence, which had a similar construction system; before that The Incredible Machine with its logic chains you set up and then watched play out; and more recently World of Goo which injected personality and fun gimmicks into construction challenges. This seemed to be a lovely mix of these which got me nostalgic in various ways while giving me many fresh scenarios to puzzle through.

The initial goal of each level is to build the ideal structures—often ending up precarious and haphazard—to get a forklift from the start to the end, wherever it is. The extra goal after this is Convoy mode, which pits a variable-sized fleet of forklifts against your creation which brings extra strain on your components as well as timing and flow-based wrinkles. You’re contending with many familiar Aperture traps and hazards recontextualised to these large side-on chambers: acid pits, emancipation grids, companion cubes to be wrangled, faith plates, and later on portals as well, although your main enemy is managing the momentum and forces of the forklifts on their run. The DLC expansion even lets you place your own portals: up to ten pairs, and you will be using them all in certain levels.

The menu has a basic primer on engineering tips, but other than that the game drops you into it pretty fast. It took me a while to come to grips with the tricks you need. Eventually I internalised the rules and was planning my routes with aplomb, relishing the voyages of my little vehicular guinea pigs as I tweaked my creation. Of course, they can get a bit lengthy and at times I wished for a fast-forward button. Then there were the test chambers where my solution was hanging by a shoestring or relied on a lucky physics quirk; a minor fluctuation or convoy variable would bring the whole thing crashing frustratingly down. By the way, if you ever get stuck as I did a few times, I recommend IGN’s guide which has pictures of their solutions.

With 60 chambers plus 30 more in the Portal Proficiency pack, this has kept me busy for a while, on and off. I played on my iPad with its intuitive touch controls and a decent sized screen for all the detailed action, doing a few puzzles before bed or whiling away a lazy afternoon. I liked revisiting the Portal world, even if it’s a slightly stylised version thanks to its use of the “Bendy” silhouette characters. The cartooniness helped take the edge off and it’s not overwhelmed with jokes and narrative as Portal 2 was at times. And I didn’t realise how much I missed these construction simulation games. This has earned its place on the shelf with the others I mentioned in paragraph 2.

[psyphigirl]

why the fuck is the OST for Bridge Constructor: Portal astronomically fucking lifechanging

BUT LIKE ALL OF THE MUSIC IS CALLED, LIKE, MENU MUSIC 1, ANIMATION 3, DRIVE MUSIC 2. I CANT GUSH OVER A SONG CALLED BUILDING AMBIENCE 3 I FEEL SO DUMB AUGH

[grub-karkat-in-strange-places]

[rogue-bard]

When a new song by Jonathan Coulton feat. Ellen McLain drops:

[anothermonikan]

Right, steam autumn sale, any games you guys wanna rec me? cause I've been waiting for this one for a lil bit

[doomwhore]

HELLO?????

[deltastorm101]

it's become a tradition with myself to play a puzzle game at the beginning of summer, on my laptop, sitting outside on the balcony, enjoying a drink or two. 2021 i played lara croft go, 2022 it was baba is you, last year i picked out bridge constructor portal. i think it's time to finally whip out my copy of papers please for this year.

[mobijeuxatelecharger]

Bridge Constructor Stunts : découvre ce jeu de simulation d’enfer

Le site Mobijeux te propose une variété de jeux de simulation. Parmi eux, tu trouveras « Bridge Constructor Stunts » à travers lequel tu pourras à la fois construire et tester des ponts. Lors de tes parties, tu seras amené à récolter des étoiles en faisant des sauts périlleux et à tout détruire sur ton passage.

[olyrik]

[fridge-reviews]

Bridge Constructor The Walking Dead -  Blast Review

Developer: ClockStone Steam Deck Compatibility?: Verified Rrp: £7.99 (Gog,com, Humble, Steam and Epic)

This is (currently) the last of the Bridge Constructor series of games and I have to say if this is the final game then they've done a damned fine job. In some ways this feels like a natural progression for the series. In Bridge Constructor Medieval the developers introduced the idea of constructing bridges in such as the way they would collapse when the enemy crosses. In Bridge Constructor Portal (and Stunts but I haven't reviewed that yet) the developers embraced making ramps and utilising environmental puzzles to get across. So it makes sense that this game combines the two and adds a new mechanic.

The new mechanic in question is the 'command mode' in this mode you tell a character (called a hero) what to do at certain waypoints. At each waypoint the character will perform up to five actions in order. These heroes can kill zombies as they pass them but only up until their stamina runs out which is not something you have any way of measuring. Speaking of heroes, it's pretty clear that this game is more based off of the Walking Dead TV series rather than the comics as it  features the likes of Daryl Dixon (who didn't exist in the comic series). That being said, I'm pretty sure that none of this game is 'canon'.

I feel it'd be remiss of me to not mention that there is a small bug that occurs if you play using the Steam Deck. Occasionally the cursor will disappear during the construction phase, it'll reappear if you tap the screen or exit and re-enter the level.

Do I recommend this game? Yes, I very much do, it's a lot of fun and quite challenging but not in the way that most Bridge Constructor games are. Plus there's something satisfying about creating a complicated machine that smacks a group of zombies around.

---- If you’d like to support me I have a Ko-fi, the reviews will continue to be posted donation or not.

[37sommz]

❁ : watching the world go by . . .

✼. masterlist — taglist — request. ✼. genre: fluff with a touch of angst. ✼. wc: 2.3k.

despite their rocky partnership, the final race of 2021 presents a chance to repair the burnt bridges between the two mclaren drivers. abu dhabi presents one last chance for unity: beat ferrari.

✼. warnings: language, ferrari slander.

✼. notes: had to take a step back after the outcome of the election. but here's a little something about ad21. no angst here just lando and michaela getting along for 3 seconds before shit gets real lol

000.⠀⠀DECEMBER 12, 2021    ›    Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

The sun had dipped below the horizon of the Yas Marina Circuit, leaving behind a lingering warmth that danced with the neon lights of Abu Dhabi reflecting off the asphalt. The scent of burnt rubber and fuel hung high in the air, a mixture that almost brought a smile to Michaela's face. Her heart raced with anticipation as she prepared herself for the last race of the 2021 season, her race suit tied in a knot around her waist as her McLaren fireproofs contrasted against her sun-tanned skin.

Michaela took a moment to survey the McLaren garage, her symbol of organized chaos. The pit crew moved with a charming precision, each member aware of their role in the pattern of preparation. She felt a hand on her shoulder and turned to find Lando, her teammate, flashing a genuine smile. His dark eyes met hers, the rivalry of the season's past fading into the background as they shared a moment of mutual respect.

"You ready to kick some Prancing Horse ass?" he asked, his accent cutting through the buzz of the garage. McLaren and Ferrari, like Mercedes and Red Bull, were level in the Constructors' Championship at the last race. In the grand scheme of strategy, the McLaren strategists had one bottom line: finish in front.

Michaela returned the smile. "Always." Her signature pink helmet rested at her side, a warm contrast to Lando's cool blue. The competition between them had grown exponentially over the season, but tonight, it was all about unity. The two drivers shared a routine fist bump before parting ways, each retreating to their respective corners for final preparations.

In the midst of the comfortable chaos of the garage, a sense of calmness washed over her as she stepped into her car. The cockpit was her safe haven, a place where she felt more at home than anywhere else in the world. She took a deep breath, the faint scent of leather and carbon fiber filling her nose. She pulled the helmet over her head, the world outside falling away, as she focused solely on the task at hand. 

Beat Ferrari.

The lights went out, and the roar of the engines filled the night sky. The race began with an energy that matched the neon lights in the air. She and Lando pushed their McLarens to the limits, fighting tooth and nail to keep their Carlos and Charles at bay. The tension grew with every lap, each pass and pit stop meticulously planned and executed.

Michaela's eyes remained glued to the track ahead, her mind a whirlwind of strategy and instinct. Her hands moved with a grace that belied their power, dancing over the steering wheel and shifting gears with practiced grace. Her car responded to her every command, an extension of her will. The crowd's cheers grew distant as she entered the zone, her focus narrowed to the task of outracing her rivals.

The race was tight, with all four drivers refusing to give an inch to one another. The anticipation grew unbearable, each corner a potential battleground where the season's outcome could be decided. Sweat beaded on her brow as the excitement made her heart race. She could feel the pressure, the weight of her team's expectations, and the desire to prove herself.

In the final laps, the McLaren garage grew completely still. The strategists whispered urgently into their headsets, watching the monitors with eyes that never blinked. The pit crew stood restless, crossing their fingers as the safety car approached the line, having been ordered to come into the pits to allow for one last lap of racing. In the cockpit, Michaela's heart pounded in her chest, this was it.

The safety car dove into the pits and the cars surged forward. On the straight, she saw the Yuki's Alpha Tauri in front of her, the only car separating herself from Carlos in 3rd. Pierre was closing in close behind her. Her knuckles whitened around the steering wheel as she pushed the pedal to the floor, her car screaming in protest. The final corner approached, and she knew it was now or never. She took a deep breath, her muscles tensing as she readied herself for the decisive move.

With a burst of speed, she darted to the inside of Yuki, the sound of the tires screeching echoing in her helmet. The crowd's roar grew deafening, and a wave of sound washed over the track as Max overtook Lewis. Her pulse quickened and her every sense heightened. The finish line was so close she could almost touch it.

Michaela's heart pounded as she saw her opportunity. The gap between Yuki and Carlos was narrowing, but she had the better line. She took a deep breath and made her move, her car sliding sideways. The tires found grip just as she pulled in front of Yuki, the G-forces pushing her into the seat.

The cheers grew louder as the cars approached the final straight. The Ferrari was in her sights, the checkered flag waving in the distance. The engine screamed in protest as she pushed the power to the limit, inching closer to Carlos. Her mind raced with the knowledge that this could be her moment, the one that would define the season.

Another blink and she was over the line, 4th to Carlos' 3rd. With Lando in 8th and Charles landing outside of the points, Michaela couldn't help the cheer that left her lips. The crowd's applause washed over her, but it was the excitement in her engineer's voice that sent a thrill through her veins. The race was over, the season concluded. As she slowed her car to enter the cool-down lap, a mix of euphoria and exhaustion swirled within her. The pit lane was a blur of waving flags and flashing lights as she made her way back to the garage.

The moment she stepped out of the car, the world rushed back in. Her crew swarmed her, their faces a mix of elation and relief. They'd done it. They'd brought McLaren back to the top 3. The joy overflowed as they all hugged and high-fived, sharing in the victory over their Italian rivals.

As the adrenaline subsided, the weight of the season's end settled in. It was time to celebrate, but also to reflect. The dinner with the team was a tradition, a chance to put aside the competition and revel in their collective success. The venue was a gorgeous restaurant with a view of the marina, the kind of place that whispered of wealth and tiny portions.

The team chatted and laughed, sharing stories from the season. The tension between Lando and Michaela had dissipated, at least for the night. They raised their glasses, toasting to the engineers who had crunched the numbers, the pit crew who had changed tires in a heartbeat, and the strategists who had orchestrated their battles from the garage. Lando spoke first, his words genuine and heartfelt, thanking everyone for their hard work and friendship. Then it was Michaela's turn.

Michaela's voice was steady as she began. "You all know how much this season has meant to me," she said, looking around the table. "This team gave me a home, a chance to prove myself. And together, we've done some incredible things." She paused, her gaze lingering on each face. "We didn't just race together this season; we fought, we learned, and we grew as one. To each of you," she lifted her glass, "Thank you for the long days and thrilling moments. Thank you for making this season one I'll never forget."

The room grew quieter, the air thick with emotion. The crew's eyes shone with pride, and even the stoic engineers couldn't hold back smiles. The toast was met with a round of applause, glasses clinking together in a harmony of appreciation.

"And now," Lando announced, "As a gift from me and Mick." His use of her nickname brought a smile to her eyes. "The bill's on us tonight."

The room erupted in cheers. The team's faces lit up with astonishment, and a chorus of 'thank you' echoed around the table. The tension of the race had been replaced by a warm cheerfulness, the mood growing more festive as the drinks made their rounds.

As the night progressed, the conversation grew more relaxed. The strategists regaled the group with tales of their last-minute decisions and the engineers spoke of their ingenious solutions to mid-race issues. The pit crew laughed at the more comical moments of the season, and the drivers shared stories of their off-track escapades.

Zak eventually made his way around the table, speaking to each member of the team, his eyes filled with genuine gratitude. When he reached Michaela, he paused, his hand on her shoulder. "You've had quite the year, young lady," he said, his American accent standing out against the sound of the bustling room. "I'm proud to be able to call you one of us. There's no doubt in my mind that you've been a dedicated part of the team since day one and I can't wait to see what you do next, kid."

Michaela felt a warmth spread through her at his words. "Thank you, Zak," she replied, her voice a mix of pride and something else she couldn't quite name. "I just want to make sure we keep moving forward."

He nodded, his gaze serious. "I know you're looking for that #1 spot," he said, his voice low enough to be just for her. "And I'll consider it, I promise. But you know the business. You've got to keep pushing, keep showing us what you're made of."

Michaela took a sip of her champagne, her mind racing. She had felt the sting of the team's indecision before, the way they often played favorites. "I get it," she said, her voice measured. "But my contract's up at the end of 2022. I need to know if McLaren is going to back me fully, or if I should start looking elsewhere."

Zak's eyes searched hers, understanding her urgency. "I know you have options," he replied. "And we want you to stay. But I can't make promises without considering the full picture."

The words hung in the air, a gentle reminder of the unspoken truth of their world. The business of Formula 1 was a cutthroat one, where loyalties could shift as quickly as the wind. The night grew later, and the conversations grew quieter. The celebration had reached its crescendo, and the room was now filled with the mellow buzz of satisfaction.

Michaela couldn't shake the feeling that her future was up in the air. She took another sip of her champagne, letting the bubbles dance on her tongue, before setting the glass aside. The taste of victory was sweet, but the bitter aftertaste of uncertainty lingered.

The party eventually wound down, the last of the crew members leaving the restaurant with a mix of laughter and yawns. The quiet was a stark contrast to the deafening roars of the race and the cheers of the night. Only a few remained, including Lando, who was deep in conversation with a group of engineers, and the strategists, who were already dissecting the race's data.

Michaela took the opportunity to slip away, stepping out into the cool night air. The marina was alive with the sound of distant music and the hum of conversation. She leaned against the railing, watching the lights dance on the water, lost in thought. The season had been a spectrum of emotions, from the exhilaration of the top step to the bitter taste of defeat. Now, with the off-season approaching, she faced the uncertainty of her future with McLaren.

Her thoughts were interrupted by the soft footsteps of someone joining her. She looked over to see Lando, a rare moment of quiet reflectiveness etched on his face. "Mind if I join?" he asked, holding up a fresh drink.

Michaela nodded, a small smile playing at the corner of her lips. They stood side by side for a moment, both lost in their own thoughts about the race, the season, and conversations with Zak. The cool breeze of the marina was a welcome relief from the stuffy air of the restaurant.

"Can I just say something?" Lando finally broke the silence, his eyes still on the water.

Michaela turned to look at him, curiosity piqued. "Sure."

"I know this season hasn't been easy for us," Lando said, his gaze never leaving the water. "The rivalry, the pressure. But, I've got to admit, it's brought out the best driver in me. And I think it's done the same for you."

Michaela studied his profile, the reflection of the marina's lights dancing in his eyes. "It definitely has," she conceded, the tension between them easing.

"Look, I know we've had our moments," Lando continued, taking a sip of his drink. "But I just want you to know, I respect the hell out of you. You push me, and I know we can both do great things if we keep this up."

Michaela nodded, a sense of understanding passing between them. They had been adversaries, allies, and rivals all in one season. Yet, as they stood there, she knew that they shared a bond that extended beyond the track. "Thanks, Lando," she said, her voice soft. "The same goes for me too."

They remained there, side by side, watching the water dance. The tension of the season had brought them closer than they had ever been, and for a brief moment, the future didn't matter.

For a brief moment, they were just two friends, watching the world go by.

[the-hydroxian-artblog]

I'm having Milec brainrot. Trying to imagine what kind of program to stick 'em in for enrichment.

Honestly they might be best suited for stuff Jeff is into. Minecraft, Civ, The Sims, etc. Oh, but also games like Bridge Constructor. I feel like Milec in particular would spend hours chipping away at a game like that