Once upon a time, in a land filled with dreadful foes and incompetent heroes, MediEvil thrust players into the life of Sir Daniel Fortesque - a knight with more bones than common sense. As fate would have it, this perennial bony warrior has returned in a revitalized remake, promising to rekindle the flame that once lit up the hearts (and controllers) of gamers everywhere. The big question, however, is whether this modern revival can hold its ground against the nostalgia of the 1998 original. Let's grab our swords and shields, stir up some courage, and find out!
MediEvil puts players back in the decrepit boots of Sir Daniel Fortesque and invites them on a quest filled with appalling puns and head-slicing action. As players navigate across the beautifully revamped world of Gallowmere, they'll battle a motley crew of enemies ranging from skeletons to sentient pumpkins. Each level feels like a twisted fairy tale gone wrong, complete with colorful characters - like the green gargoyles that dispense useless information and the blue ones that serve as ammunition dispensers in exchange for your hard-earned gold. Combat, while simplistic, embodies the hack-and-slash charm of the genre. Players can wield a variety of weaponry, from swords and shields to bows and-wait for it-throwing daggers! Each weapon can be charged for a mighty blow, because nothing says 'I love you' like a well-placed dagger to the forehead. However, the combat is not without its flaws, as players may find themselves wrestling with dodgy controls and frustrating camera angles that can make a simple battle feel like a scene from a slapstick comedy. Adding to the chaos is the presence of life bottles, which allow players to resurrect if they chance across watery graves (and trust me, you'll die... a lot). Moreover, finding chalices throughout the levels will unlock new goodies at the Hall of Heroes, appealing to completionists and collectors alike. There are also optional quests known as 'Lost Souls', adding a sprinkling of extra challenge for those willing to dive deep into the madness. Overall, the gameplay sticks close to its roots while throwing in new features that might just confuse your inner child.
3D graphics: original designs with 64-bit charm; layers of detail make the landscapes pop.
In the end, MediEvil's 2019 remake might not be a genre-defining masterpiece, but it manages to maintain the spirit of its predecessor while indulging in modern touches. Fans of the original might find nostalgia tinged with frustration, while newcomers might feel equally charmed and perplexed by its retro mechanics. With its humorous narrative, delightful visuals, and a healthy dose of challenges, it scratches that nostalgic itch - though perhaps occasionally with a dull blade. Toss in a quirky protagonist and a handful of humorous scenarios, and you've got an enjoyable romp through the land of Gallowmere. MediEvil is best suited for those with a hearty appreciation of the absurd and the right sense of humor. However, be prepared for clunky controls and the unmistakable vibe of an era long gone. So get ready for a mix of laughter, frustration, and the occasional bout of head-scratching confusion as you venture forth into the delightful chaos of MediEvil. Just remember - if you fall into a pit of water, you can always blame it on the dodgy camera!