Roll the Dice, Get the Power: Side Effects Unknown

GAMING NEWS DHLSalesman - Nov 29, 2025, 15:00

Imagine facing a choice where godlike power is within reach, but the cost is a descent into utter, unpredictable chaos—would you still pop the pill? That's the electrifying risk-versus-reward dilemma at the heart of the latest action indie co-op game, S.E.M.I.—Side Effects May Include..., where you and your feeble-minded friends, playing as patients in a sinister clinic, must consume experimental drugs to gain the superpowers needed to escape, only to have those abilities paired with random, hilarious, and often catastrophic side effects that turn a simple breakout into a slapstick frenzy of ragdoll physics, uncontrollable mutations, and friendly fire.

The Dosage Dilemma

The main core mechanic that elevates S.E.M.I. from a standard escape game to a frantic, laugh-out-loud experience is that to stand any chance against the clinic's obstacles and guards, players must rely on a steady supply of experimental drugs. Popping these pills instantly grants a powerful, temporary ability (this mechanic is similar to SIDE EFFECT)—perhaps super speed, incredible strength, or the power of flight—essential for navigating the randomized levels. However, the catch is that every beneficial effect is inextricably tied to a chaotic, unpredictable side effect, transforming the moment of empowerment into a ticking time bomb of absurdity. One minute you might be soaring over a security laser, and the next you're afflicted with uncontrollable laughter, sudden gigantism that jams you in a doorway, or an inexplicable adhesion to the ceiling, forcing you and your teammates to frantically strategize around your newfound, self-inflicted medical mayhem.

The core appeal of S.E.M.I.—Side Effects May Include... stems from its cooperative multiplayer and chaotic superpowers. Designed for 1 to 4 online players, the shared escape objective demands teamwork, but this is constantly challenged by the core mechanic: consuming pills for temporary abilities (like flight) triggers unpredictable side effects (like gigantism or uncontrollable laughter). This system, featuring effects like Alice's Syndrome, injects hilarious, unscripted comedy into every run. Combined with randomly generated levels—preventing map memorization and forcing on-the-spot strategy—and a physics-based mayhem engine that creates memorable ragdoll chaos, the game guarantees a perfect, laughter-filled experience for friends and family.

Ultimately, S.E.M.I.—Side Effects May Include... is the perfect prescription for quality time with family and friends. Its true value lies in the hilarity and shared memory creation; the unpredictable side effects turn chaotic failures into instant, unforgettable inside jokes that you'll recount for years. This absurdity enforces a high demand for communication, forcing frantic, last-second strategies where every victory or blunder is a shared, memorable achievement. With a low barrier to entry, the straightforward controls mean even casual gamers can jump right into the action, focusing entirely on managing the glorious chaos rather than complex mechanics. If you're looking for a game that prioritizes non-stop laughter and co-op absurdity, gather your crew and prepare for a very unstable breakout! If you want to have a great time with the ones you love, please make sure to check out S.E.M.I.—Side Effects May Include... and purchase the game at the best price using our comparison tool.

Roll the Dice for Power: Embrace the Unknown Side Effects

The Dosage Dilemma

DHLSalesman

You can also like

Technical information