Retro Revengers is a delightful throwback to the golden age of video games, blending nostalgia with modern gameplay mechanics to create a unique and engaging experience. Developed by Shinyuden and published by Ratalaika Games, this retro-style action platformer is a love letter to classic games like Mega Man and Ghouls ‘n Ghosts.
Developer: Shinyuden
Publisher: Ratalaika Games
Release Date: 23 July 2024
Thanks to Ratalaika Games and PR Hound for the review code.
Gameplay and Mechanics
At its core, Retro Revengers is a side-scrolling platformer that captures the essence of 16-bit classics. Players take control of a group of video game streamers who have been transformed into game characters by the Retro Goddess. Each character has unique abilities that are essential for overcoming the game’s diverse challenges. For example, Ossan can float momentarily after jumping and throw knives, while other characters have abilities like homing fireballs and grappling hooks.
The game features a variety of levels, each designed to highlight the strengths of different characters. This design choice ensures that players must strategically switch between characters to navigate through the game’s obstacles and enemies. The levels are beautifully crafted with pixel art that evokes the charm of early ’90s video games, and the retro-themed music, composed by Manami Matsumae, adds to the nostalgic atmosphere.
Story and Setting
The story of Retro Revengers is both humorous and engaging. The protagonists, known in Japan as “Ii Otonatachi,” are real-life video game streamers who embark on a quest to save the retro gaming world from the menace of big-budget, mainstream video games. The game’s antagonist, the Demon Overlord of Triple-A, aims to eradicate indie and retro games, making way for only high-budget titles.
This narrative provides a fun and light-hearted backdrop for the action, filled with references to classic games and gaming culture. The dialogue is witty, and the characters’ interactions are often amusing, adding a layer of charm to the overall experience.
Visuals and Audio
One of the standout features of Retro Revengers is its visual presentation. The game employs a 16-bit art style that is both vibrant and detailed. Each level is distinct, with environments ranging from lush forests to eerie castles, all rendered in beautiful pixel art. The character animations are smooth, and the enemy designs are varied and imaginative.
The audio design is equally impressive. The soundtrack, composed by Manami Matsumae, is a highlight, featuring catchy tunes that perfectly complement the retro aesthetic. The sound effects are also well-crafted, enhancing the overall immersion and making each action feel satisfying.
Challenges and Replayability
Retro Revengers offers a fair amount of challenge, reminiscent of the difficulty found in classic platformers. The game requires precise timing and strategic use of each character’s abilities to progress. Boss battles are particularly challenging, requiring players to learn patterns and adapt their strategies accordingly.
The game’s replayability is bolstered by its multiple characters and varied level design. Players can revisit levels to discover hidden secrets and improve their performance, adding to the game’s longevity. Additionally, the humorous story and charming characters make it enjoyable to experience the game multiple times.
Final Thoughts
Retro Revengers is a must-play for fans of classic platformers and retro gaming. Its blend of nostalgic visuals, engaging gameplay, and charming story make it a standout title in the indie game scene. Whether you’re a veteran gamer looking to relive the glory days of 16-bit gaming or a newcomer seeking a fun and challenging platformer, Retro Revengers offers something for everyone.