How I ended up downloading Total Reload is quite interesting. I was chatting with the developer on Twitter and has every intention to review the game itself, but due to the fact that I get sim sickness I thought it would be best to test it out first. Luckily, the demo came out and I was able to try it.

Now you’re thinking with Portals

In Total Reload the player shares a body with a robot. The story seems to unfold organically as puzzles are solved, but from what I could tell, the player has control of the body while the robot’s consciousness is along for the ride and able to talk to the new inhabitant. This way the robot is able to give the player all the information they need as they encounter new mechanics and puzzles. I imagine it would feel quite strange to be a passenger in your own, albeit mechanical, body.
The player is presented with an electrode tower which when connected to another section will power the item it’s connected to. Which is a complicated way of saying “give item A power”. These will often be used to power doors, grids and portals. For example, if there’s a doorway that is locked and behind it is an electrode, they can use a portal (if it’s powered) to get to the other area to connect it. Sometimes portals will take players to areas with their own little puzzles that need to be solved. Sometimes introducing a mechanic that will be useful later. As new mechanics are introduced, the puzzles will become harder but not impossible.
If you enjoy relaxing puzzle games that don’t have high stakes but like to make you think, Total Reload is something you will probably enjoy. And for those wondering, I didn’t get sim sick.