Berserk Boy Review
Release date: March 6, 2024
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Microsoft Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X and Series S
Developer: BerserkBoy Games
Engine: GameMaker Studio 2
Publishers: BerserkBoy Games, Big Sugar
Genres: Platform game, Indie game, Action
“Review Coipy Provided By BerserkBoy Games”
Berserk Boy is what happens when you ake a game that’s an amalgamation of the high-velocity thrills of Sonic The Hedgehog, the high octane action of Azure Striker Gunvolt, the pixel perfection that is Gunstar Heroes, and the customizable abilities of Mega Man games like the X series all the way to the ZX series, crafted with a keen affection for both iconic series. This unique synthesis offers a compelling draw, proving that the game transcends mere homage to classic platformers, injecting its own blend of innovation and freshness into the genre. My singular gripe revolves around the abrupt end, leaving little room to fully exploit the robust capabilities I had just begun to enjoy.
Embedded within this homage to platformer heritage lies an unspoiled narrative: humanity battles the menacing Shades, born of Dark Energy, with the Resistance employing advanced tech to survive their unpredictable assaults. Amid this turmoil, Kei and Dizzie, the brains and heart of their duo, confront these challenges head-on, with Kei's transformation through a Berserk Orb heralding his ascendance as the pivotal hero against Dr. Genos and his own Orb-wielding minions.
The gameplay's charm lies in its fluid suit-switching mechanic, offering varied approaches to navigation and combat across revisited landscapes. The Flame Drill and Ice Kunai suits, among others, not only diversify the attack strategies but also unlock new navigational possibilities, underscoring the game's emphasis on exploration and skill mastery. This mechanic, reminiscent of Mega Man's influence yet enriched with the velocity of Sonic and nuances from the Azure Striker Gunvolt series, culminates in a gameplay experience that prioritizes agility and adaptability, rewarding thorough exploration and mastery with additional content and abilities.
In particular, the diverse arsenal from vanquished bosses enriches both combat and exploration, with each suit bringing unique movement and attack patterns, enhancing the gameplay's depth. The option to upgrade these suits further at the Resistance base, augmenting Kei's abilities and introducing new techniques, adds layers to the strategic possibilities, extending the game's engagement beyond the main storyline.
The energy mechanics, allowing for uninterrupted basic attacks and suit-specific abilities, complement the dynamic combat and exploration, with energy regeneration and collectible orbs ensuring sustained action. The optional Berserk attacks add another layer, though their necessity diminishes as one's mastery over the controls and combat system grows, highlighting the game's balanced challenge that rewards skillful play over reliance on power-ups.
The game excels in its platforming, striking a balance between reflexive and strategic challenges, particularly shining when combining the unique capabilities of each suit to navigate complex sequences. This flexibility extends to combat, where suit selection adapts to player preference, enhancing the replayability of stages by leveraging newfound abilities to uncover previously inaccessible areas and secrets, enriching the exploration experience.
Berserk Boy's design facilitates exploration and replayability, with strategically placed save points easing the exploration and revisitation of stages for collectibles and hidden Resistance members, necessary for unlocking the true final confrontation—a testament to the game's respect for its inspirations and its commitment to providing a comprehensive platforming challenge.
The game's presentation, from its vibrant pixel art to its engaging soundtrack by Tee Lopes, complements its gameplay, capturing the essence of classic platformers while establishing its own identity. Despite some repetitiveness in secret section challenges and an overall desire for more substantial difficulty in places, Berserk Boy distinguishes itself with its rapid-paced gameplay, diverse abilities, and visually striking aesthetics.
Berserk Boy stands out as a vibrant homage to and evolution of the platformer genre, blending the best elements of its inspirations with fresh mechanics and a compelling narrative. Despite minor areas for refinement and a desire for expanded challenges, it delivers a richly satisfying experience, showcasing Zu Ehtisham's dedication to crafting an engaging and replayable adventure that celebrates the spirit of its classic predecessors while charting its own course.
