Aero the Acro-Bat for the PS5 is a classic platformer that first made its debut in the 1990s on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) and Sega Genesis. The game was developed by Iguana Entertainment and published by Sunsoft, featuring Aero, a red bat who works as an acrobat in a circus. Given the resurgence of retro gaming and the appetite for nostalgic experiences, the PS5 version of Aero the Acro-Bat brings back this iconic title, now optimized for modern audiences with some new tweaks, but retaining much of its original charm.
Developer:Â Shinyuden
Publisher: Ratalaika Games
Release Date:Â 2nd August 2024
Thanks to Ratalaika Games and PR Hound for the review code.
Visuals and Presentation
The PS5 port of Aero the Acro-Bat retains the original 2D sprite-based graphics, which are enhanced with higher resolution and smoother animations. The game does not stray far from its roots, which is a plus for fans of the original. The vibrant and quirky aesthetic of the circus-themed levels is well-preserved, and the character animations are as lively as ever. The backgrounds have been slightly updated to make better use of modern hardware, giving them a bit more depth and vibrancy. While these enhancements might not be groundbreaking, they do make the game more visually appealing on a large screen.
Gameplay and Mechanics
The gameplay in Aero the Acro-Bat is typical of platformers from its era, with Aero navigating through various levels filled with enemies, obstacles, and traps. The game offers a mix of precision jumping, gliding, and combat, with Aero’s primary attack being a spin that allows him to take out enemies. The controls are tight and responsive, which is crucial for the sometimes unforgiving platforming sections.
One of the highlights of the game is its level design. Each level is a mix of circus-themed environments, ranging from trapeze acts to roller coasters, and they offer a fair amount of challenge. There’s also a variety of objectives, such as collecting items, finding hidden areas, or defeating bosses, which adds a layer of depth to the gameplay. However, some players might find the difficulty curve to be steep, especially those who are not used to the old-school platforming challenges that require memorization and precision.
Sound and Music
The soundtrack of Aero the Acro-Bat on PS5 is a faithful recreation of the original, with some slight enhancements to match modern audio standards. The music is upbeat and matches the circus atmosphere well, though it can become repetitive after extended play sessions. Sound effects are crisp, and the nostalgic feel of the game is maintained with the inclusion of the original sound effects.
Final Thoughts
For those who grew up with the original Aero the Acro-Bat or are fans of retro platformers, the PS5 version offers a solid trip down memory lane. The game’s challenging levels, quirky character design, and nostalgic visuals and sound make it a fun, albeit sometimes frustrating, experience. However, newcomers might struggle with the difficulty and the lack of modern conveniences, like checkpoints or easier difficulty settings, that newer platformers often provide.
In conclusion, Aero the Acro-Bat for the PS5 is a competent revival of a classic game. It stays true to its roots, offering a challenging platforming experience with a few modern enhancements. While it may not appeal to everyone, especially those looking for more modern gaming experiences, it will surely delight fans of the original and enthusiasts of retro platformers.
