Oct 2022
It’s a bird! It’s a plane! No, wait, it’s an alien with a penchant for dramatic entrances and poor naming conventions! Welcome to the wacky world of *No More Heroes III*, where we catch up with our favorite otaku assassin, Travis Touchdown, as he’s plunged into a galaxy-brained adventure filled with aliens, superheroes, and enough 90s pop culture references to make even the most nostalgic amongst us chuckle. But how does it fare on the Xbox Series X/S? Let’s dive into this absurdity with a critical eye and a side of snark.
*No More Heroes III* brings back the franchise’s signature hack-and-slash action with a sprinkle of open-world exploration that’s as refreshing as a cold drink on a hot day (provided you’re not lactose intolerant). Players take control of Travis as he battles through an alien invasion, equipped with his trusty Beam Katana, a weapon so intimidating it probably has its own Instagram account. The combat system is as flashy and ridiculous as ever, drawing from the lore of previous entries while also introducing new mechanics like the Death Glove and an upgraded fast-travel system that makes hopping between the game’s five islands feel zippy. Oh, and don’t get me started on the *Killer Slash* mechanic which is as satisfying as it sounds; just be sure not to accidentally hit the ‘hello’ button – that’s just awkward.
The game looks delightful on the Xbox Series X/S, boasting enhanced graphic fidelity that makes Santa Destroy feel a bit less grimy and a little more vibrant. With 4K resolution and 60 FPS, it’s almost a treat for your eyes, provided your eyes can handle all the visual chaos. The unique cel-shaded art style keeps things fresh and helps maintain the quirky charm the series is known for. Yet, it feels more like a deliciously editable fan-made animation than a AAA polished product. But let's be honest, it fits the absurdity perfectly.
In conclusion, *No More Heroes III* is a wild ride of action, humor, and nostalgia that makes for an enjoyable gaming experience despite its imperfections. It plays to its strengths with goofy characters, chaotic gameplay, and a delightfully ridiculous story that never takes itself too seriously. While it might not be everyone’s cup of alien tea, for fans of the franchise and newcomers who enjoy a bit of madness in their gaming, it’s a must-try. Seriously, if you've always wanted to see a cat saving the day alongside an unlikely hero, you know where to go! Overall, I’m giving *No More Heroes III* a solid 8 out of 10—forward your complaints to the nearest alien ambassador!
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