Foamstars Review
Release date: February 2024
Platforms: PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4
Developer: Toylogic
Genre: Shooter game
Publisher: Square Enix
Engine: Unreal Engine 4
Foamstars emerges as a vibrant and innovative addition to the multiplayer shooter genre, distinguishing itself with a unique foam-based gameplay mechanic that defies the typical comparisons to Nintendo's Splatoon. Developed by Square Enix, this hero shooter captivates with its colorful, fast-paced action and strategic depth, where players can craft barriers, navigate quickly across foam-covered arenas, and engage in inventive 'chill' eliminations.
Foamstars is structured around teams of four, engaging in vibrant and spirited battles where the ammunition of choice is foam. This choice adds an inventive twist to gameplay, transforming kills into 'chills' and coloring the dynamic arenas in a splash of hues. The strategic deployment of foam enables players to craft barriers, obstruct routes, create vantage points, and access elevated areas, infusing a tactical layer to the battles.
The strategic utility of foam extends further. Teams can erase enemy foam by covering it with their own, and players can glide swiftly across their foam while enemy foam hampers movement. This dynamic encourages teams to dominate the arena with their color, restricting the opposition's mobility. Securing chills in Foamstars involves more than depleting a health meter; it requires transforming opponents into foam balls and then sliding into them to finalize the elimination. This mechanic also allows for the rescue of teammates, fostering team cohesion.
The primary game mode, Smash the Star, is an adaptation of Team Deathmatch, where securing seven chills triggers the appearance of a Star Player with enhanced abilities. The goal is to then take down this powerful opponent in a straightforward yet exhilarating mode. Besides Smash the Star, two additional modes rotate hourly. Happy Bath Survival splits teams for cooperative play in fast-paced rounds, while Rubber Duck Party introduces an escort mission centered around a bath toy, with team strategies revolving around foam dynamics and a quirky duck dance for momentum.
Mission mode offers a contrast to player versus player (PvP) action, focusing on wave-based challenges against AI opponents. While less engaging, it serves as a valuable practice field for mastering character abilities. At launch, eight distinct characters are available, each equipped with a primary weapon, special abilities, and an ultimate move, contributing to a balanced and competitive gameplay experience.
Foamstars distinguishes itself with an exuberant presentation. The hub area offers various social and customization options, and the game boasts impressive technical performance, including effective use of controller haptics. However, the high cost of in-game purchases for cosmetic items stands out as a significant drawback and is absolutely unforgiveable. It’s also worth mentioning that the game releasing the same day as the Final Fantasy VII Rebirth State of Play and Demo could be viewed as the game being sent out to die…….or as a tax write off given how this game got next to no promotion from Square Enix which isn’t surprising given they don’t seem to promote anything not Final Fantasy VII Remake or Rebirth at this point.
Overall, Foamstars offers a refreshing take on the shooter genre with its lively modes, innovative foam mechanic, and charismatic character roster. Despite its flaws, such as expensive microtransactions and less compelling co-op missions, the game delivers an engaging and stylistic multiplayer experience.
