Real Talk By: Ms. Throwback

While Shantae: Risky’s Revenge (PS4, PC, DS) recently dropped on the Playstation Network, it has also previously released on Steam and Nintendo DSi.  Shantae is a half genie who explores various areas in a platforming style while attempting to defeat her nemesis, Risky Boots.  She uses a variety of attacks throughout the game which include ranged attacks,  belly dancing, hair whipping, and the use of several of her furried friends transformations which all have unique abilities, just to name a few.  The light-hearted nature of the title, along with the intriguing game play make for a fun and enticing play through that will not soon be forgotten.

The brightly colored pixelated graphics are the first thing I noticed while playing the title.  I was never able to play the previously released versions and had no idea what I was getting into when I started the game.  I was pleasantly surprised by how well I enjoyed the old school feel layered with updated art for when characters engage in dialogue.  The deep rich color and character design kept bringing me back for more, and reminded me of sitting down to an old Nintendo original.

While the story line doesn’t get you hook, line, and sinker, it is charming in its own way and truthfully this is one of those titles you don’t necessarily play for the story line anyway. The characters engage in enough conversation to lead you along on the adventure but it’s not tiresome.  It’s just enough.  I had more fun seeing the characters personalities shine through than I paid much attention to some deep meaningful story line.

During the game spells, and hair tricks, can be upgraded using the shop.  Potions can also be purchases for an extra boost of offensive magic if needed.  Shantae can transform into several animals which help in her adventures.   Turning into a monkey for example, can help her scale walls and fit into tight spaces.  Her mermaid form allows her to reach new areas of previously played through levels by allowing her to swim and bubble her way through access walls.   There are also several secret Shantae forms which can be acquired throughout the game.

The title does present some backtracking and repetitive enemy resistance which can get somewhat old.  It’s not too bad though considering the good fun that is had turning into several different animal forms and continuing through the quirky adventure.  I think developing a few more enemies could have done the game some justice.  The main bosses are quite fun but running into the same goons all the time can get quite annoying.

While Shantae: Risky’s Revenge Directors Cut is no diamond in the rough, it does present a fun and well-to-do play through indie title that was worth the money.  Good music, trendy graphics, and fun game play make this title one that creates a distraction for an otherwise boring or rainy day.  While it could use a few enemy updates, it presents a decent challenge and a quick getaway from the day’s stresses.

Shantae: Risky’s Revenge Directors Cut Gets

3.5 Out of 5

What’s Legit?

+Fun and Inviting Visuals and Style

+Witty Sound and Music

+Nice Array of animal forms and offensive moves

+Good Play Through Experience

What’s Perpetrating?

-Enemies Are Repetitive

-Short and Sweet

#Shantae @PlayLegit

Review Copy Provided By Wayforward Technologies.