Volume.art is a free browser-based collection of microgames that challenges players to interact with volume sliders in novel and often humorous ways. The project brought together 23 developers to create a varied experience that has been compared to classic WarioWare titles and old Flash games.
One of the standout entries is "A man named Bow" by Alice Bottino, which mimics the Home Run Contest from Super Smash Bros. Players pull back on the mouse to aim a bow and arrow, attempting to hit a target at a specific distance that corresponds to a set volume level.
Another notable inclusion is "What's This About" by Akuma Kira, the developer of Lunacid. This microgame parodies the persuasion minigame from The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. Players must increase a character's likability by selecting dialogue options, managing a decay in persuasiveness as they cycle through different tones like cruelty, honesty, humor, and flattery. The resemblance to Oblivion's notoriously difficult persuasion system is a core element of the gag.
"Ctrl+Alt+Date" by Iodine offers a parody of dating simulators. It presents players with dialogue choices, some comically mundane, to progress a relationship with a "volume rocker" character, aiming to achieve a specific audio output.
"In the Zone," also by Akuma Kira, drops players into a minimalist 3D environment inspired by the S.T.A.L.K.E.R. series. The objective is to navigate the level and locate the area with the highest radiation, which also corresponds to the highest volume setting, guided by a Geiger counter.
Across its 29 distinct games, Volume.art offers a quick and engaging experience, taking approximately an hour to complete. The collection successfully leverages its central theme of volume control to create a memorable and playful gaming experience.