Kamen Rider: Memory of Heroez emerges from the mystical realms of Japanese media, serving as a delightful diversion for fans of the iconic Kamen Rider Series. Released in 2020 for the PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch, this game serves up a hearty slice of action and nostalgia while simultaneously cheekily reminding us that classic heroes never truly say goodbye; they just reboot. Grab your helmets, strap on your seatbelts, and let's ride into the valiant universe of Kamen Rider!
Stepping into the stylish shoes of Kamen Riders W, OOO, and Zero-One, players embark on a quest filled with madcap misadventures, confrontations with villainous titans, and the occasional plot twist that's more shocking than receiving a bill last-minute. The game unfolds with the Narumi Detective Agency receiving a mysterious email about a certain Professor Aida, triggering a series of events that could only culminate in a nod to video game tropes-an abandoned island and evil scientists are included at no extra charge. The gameplay focuses mainly on hack-and-slash mechanics mixed with action RPG elements. You'll find yourself slicing through hordes of enemies with the finesse worthy of a Kamen Rider while mastering various forms and abilities. Depending on your selected Kamen Rider, each character boasts a unique set of moves and outrageous transformations that would make even a transformer feel inadequate. Note: the game shines brightest in combos, so prepare to feel like a hero while your fingers race across buttons like a caffeinated octopus with wings. When it comes to boss battles, Kamen Rider excels as you'll be taking on formidable foes like the Zeus Dopant-a science experiment gone awry and the main infiltrator for this storyline. But don't worry; with your quick reflexes and far superior sense of justice, you'll toss them back into the digital abyss where they belong. The narrative continues to unfold as you solve this nightmarish puzzle, combining classic Kamen Rider lore with nifty new experiences that keep the hearts of fans racing.
Visually, Kamen Rider: Memory of Heroez displays an art style that captures the flamboyant and hyper-stylized essence of the Kamen Rider world. While the graphics won't necessarily stop traffic, it's endearing in a way that might make you smile-like seeing someone you haven't seen in years and realizing they still haven't changed their hairstyle. Character models are decently detailed, and the environments, despite their somewhat recycled aesthetic, do a reasonable job immersing you in the chaotic charm of named cities in the Kamen Rider universe. Special effects from rider transformations and combat moves pop brilliantly, saturated enough to make your teenage self squeal with glee.
Kamen Rider: Memory of Heroez plays like a well-structured love letter to the diehard fans while also functioning as an accessible entry point for those unfamiliar with the series. It manages to juggle its mechanics and lore without turning into an anarchic mess, although there are moments where it feels like it could use a bit more polish, like that stubborn stain on your favorite vintage shirt. The game isn't without its flaws; some set pieces feel repetitive, and the absence of certain characters from Kamen Rider Zero-One can raise eyebrows. Still, it features enough charm and engaging narratives to keep players invested through its journey of redemption, discovery, and a sprinkling of ridiculousness. So suit up, buckle your helmets, and get ready for a ride-Kamen Rider: Memory of Heroez might just be the joyride you didn't know you needed! In the grand landscape of superhero gams, this one's worth a shot: a solid 7.5 out of 10. With great power comes great fun, after all!