Introduction

Bubsy: Paws on Fire! is another attempt to revive the infamous Bobcat (not to be confused with a pop-up book title of a similar sounding name) in a whizz-bang platforming extravaganza. Released on Nintendo Switch in the summer of 2019, it's safe to say this one had more than a few hops and skips that made us wonder if the developers devoted a little more time making sure his trousers fit. Spoiler alert: they don't.

Gameplay

Bubsy: Paws on Fire! adopts a 2.5D side-scrolling format, reminiscent of yesteryear's platforming gems but with auto-scrolling levels. Players are on a wild token-collecting quest to the Amazootorium - think of it as Disneyland, but for dodgy anthropomorphic animals. With characters like Bubsy, Virgil, and Woolie, it's less catfights and more animal antics! Each furry friend comes equipped with unique abilities - Bubsy can glide through the air (thanks to his questionable fashion choices), while Virgil sports a nifty double jump, and Woolie's main skill is blasting enemies with projectiles (quite a useful habit). Getting hit? No problemo! Infinity lives ensure you never face real failure, just a chance to rediscover optimism three checkpoints later.

Graphics

Ah, the graphics. This is where things get... furry. Opting for a colorful and cartoonish aesthetic, the game appears to be living on the edge of 'retro' and 'did I forget to clean my glasses?' The backgrounds are vivid, but they sometimes look like they were crafted while simultaneously binge-watching a vibrant cartoon-impressive if you're into psychedelic animation; befuddling if you aren't. The characters pop out, looking like they were snatched from the animation department and plopped into a world that is often far too forgiving of mistakes.

Conclusion

So, in the grand scheme of things, Bubsy: Paws on Fire! lands a solid middle ground with its catchy soundtrack, amusing but repetitive gameplay, and its mercilessly forgiving checkpoints system that saves you from soul-crushing defeat. While it's not going to win any awards, it's a light-hearted romp for those nostalgic for '90s gaming. Just remember to approach with caution if you have a taste for more substantial offerings - it may just leave you feeling like a cat that caught the laser pointer instead of the mouse.

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