Dec 2021
In a world where boyhood is just a touch away from swinehood, 'Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom' offers players a chance to indulge in a platforming escapade that has its roots tangled deep within the iconic Wonder Boy series. Developed by Game Atelier and directed by the maestro himself, Ryuichi Nishizawa, this title isn't just another remnant of the past; it's a welcome evolution that combines nostalgia with innovative gameplay. It's like finding out that your grandma's secret apple pie recipe not only tastes great but comes with a side of mutant power-ups.
'Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom' kicks off with our hero, Jin, who finds his life taking a decidedly 'porky' turn. After thwarting his Uncle Nabu's attempts at chaos, Jin is transformed into a pig, and not the cute kind you want as a pet, but the 'I need to save the kingdom or everyone stays a pig forever' kind. As you set off on your quest, you'll encounter an impressive array of animal transformations, each with unique abilities, turning Jin into a charm offensive of morphing mayhem. Sniff contraptions with your pig snout, spit venom as a snake, swing on hoops with frog-like finesse, dash through blocks like a lion, and fly like a dragon. What's not to love? The gameplay draws on the Metroidvania style, allowing for exploration through interconnected areas, with the necessity of unlocking abilities adding depth and complexity akin to retracing your steps in an overly complicated IKEA you never wanted to go into.
The art direction in 'Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom' is absolutely stunning, featuring hand-drawn animations that look like a bedtime storybook on way too many steroids. Each environment immerses you further into the whimsical kingdom, with colors so vibrant you'd think they were sprinkled with unicorn dust. The smooth animations and character designs capture a sense of nostalgia, honoring the classics while embracing modern aesthetics. It makes you want to take a screenshot for every frame, perfect for your Instagram feed—#NoFilterNeeded.
'Monster Boy and the Cursed Kingdom' is not just a title revived from the deep wonders of gaming history; it's a testament that old-school charm and modern gameplay can coexist as best buddies, like Batman and Robin, or like peanut butter and jelly (for those who like their sandwiches sweet). It respects its lineage while paving the way for new fans, making it worth every moment of your time. So, grab your DualSense, maneuver your way through a kingdom cursed by animal antics, and remember, when life gives you lemons, turn into a pig and sniff out the truth! Score: 9 out of 10.
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