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Review of 9 Monkeys of Shaolin on Nintendo Switch

by Gemma Looksby Gemma Looksby photo Oct 2020
Cover image of 9 Monkeys of Shaolin on Switch
Gamefings Score: 7.5
Platform: Switch Switch logo
Released: 16 Oct 2020
Genre: Beat 'em up
Developer: Sobaka Studio
Publisher: Buka Entertainment, Ravenscourt

Introduction

Welcome to China in the 1570s, where a fisherman named Wei Cheng trades in his fishing rod for a staff and fights like he's just stepped out of a kung fu movie! With a title like *9 Monkeys of Shaolin*, you'd be forgiven for thinking this game is just about some cute, fuzzy primates. Spoiler alert: it's not. It's a hard-hitting, nostalgic trip back to the beat 'em up golden age, this time with a side order of marital arts!

Gameplay

So, what's the deal with the gameplay? Imagine this: you, wielding a staff like you're auditioning for a part in a Hollywood martial arts flick, fending off waves of dastardly enemies who apparently think they can take you on. Each chapter features a different "wokou" enemy clan, and let me tell you, these guys are as quirky as they are aggressive, sporting masks that reflect their wacky personalities. You know, if there's one thing anime has taught us, it's that a mask means instant boss material. Plus, the game lets you learn new combos and techniques, so you can make your enemies feel as helpless as a fish out of water (Or a gang of wokou holed up in a bamboo hut!). Multiplayer is the cherry on top, allowing you and a buddy to take down bad guys together, because let's face it, everything is more fun when you have someone else to laugh at when you defeat the boss... or when you both get owned.

Graphics

In terms of graphics, *9 Monkeys of Shaolin* hits the sweet spot between retro charm and modern flair. Using Unreal Engine 4, the game manages to capture that classic pixel-art vibe without actually being pixel art. It's like a retro game that had a glow-up! The enemy designs, backgrounds, and spell effects remind you that not all who wield a sword run around in blocky body frames. The visual style is vibrant and colorful, bringing to life the enchanting world of ancient China, where danger lurks around every corner (and in every shadowy alley, if we're being honest).

Conclusion

So, what's the final verdict on *9 Monkeys of Shaolin*? If you're a fan of retro beat 'em ups with a dash of mysticism and a sprinkle of humor, this game is a worthy addition to your Nintendo Switch library. Sure, it has its quirks (like a sense of humor that some may find too corny), but the overall experience is like a warm, comforting bowl of wonton soup, with just the right amount of spice. *9 Monkeys of Shaolin* isn't just about fighting - it's about friendship, revenge, and trying to figure out where to stash all those new combos you'll learn on your way to The Fisherman's Hall of Fame. Grab your controller, get your crew, and dive into the kung fu chaos!

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