Bat Boy - Game Review
0Bat Boy - Game Review
Hello, folks! Welcome back to Veteran Game, and today we're diving into a nostalgic ride, a Mega Man-like action platformer, "Bat Boy" by Sonzai Games. In an era where open-world exploration and deep narratives are all the rage, Bat Boy brings us back to the charming simplicity of leaping through themed stages, battling colourful villains, and immersing ourselves in catchy chiptune tracks. So, buckle up as we take this sporty adventure for a spin.
Bat Boy introduces us to Ryosuke and his athletic pals, who are trapped and brainwashed by the sneaky Lord Vicious in his other-dimensional games. But our hero, wielding his trusty bat, manages to fend off the mind-controlling magic and embarks on a journey to rescue his friends, gaining new abilities along the way.
The game boasts 12 vivid and uniquely themed stages, each loosely linked to the sport of the boss waiting at the end. Whether it's the sun-soaked beach stage lorded over by Aquaria or the vibrant jungle where Starlet Twirl resides, the lively settings and infectious music will keep you entertained throughout. The game indeed packs a punch with its platforming challenges, optional fights, and an enticing final level.
Unlike Mega Man, Bat Boy's primary means of attacking foes is by bashing them with his bat, batting away enemy projectiles and throwing an array of sports items like tennis balls and basketballs. Similar to Shovel Knight, Bat Boy can gain airtime by hitting an enemy in the air, leading to a satisfyingly fluid movement system that demands precise timing.
However, while you'll appreciate Bat Boy's base moveset, you might not find yourself utilizing all the abilities gained from the rescued friends. Whether it's Basketeer's bouncing basketball attack or Starlet Twirl's Grappling Ribbon, you might overlook these moves in favor of the default skills. A notable exception is Aquaria's invincibility bubble, a lifesaver in enemy-packed stages.
Enemies come in the form of adorable yet pesky Pigzies dressed in various costumes. From hockey-playing to samurai slashing Pigzies, each brings a unique challenge. The game throws intense difficulty spikes your way, making the search for hidden health-boosting herbs throughout the stages a vital part of your strategy.
Despite its charm, Bat Boy isn't without its fouls. A couple of levels may have you gritting your teeth in frustration due to their punishing difficulty. And the game isn't without a handful of bugs and glitches, including obstacles getting stuck and issues with the pause menu that required a full game restart.
Bat Boy's nostalgic, Mega Man-esque platforming, sports-themed adventures, catchy tunes, and vibrant stages make it an engaging experience for any action platformer fan. A few difficulty spikes and minor bugs might keep it from hitting a home run, but it doesn't strike out either. A couple of patches down the line, and this could be a title that both veterans and newcomers will love.
As always, thank you for tuning into Veteran Game, your stop for in-depth gaming reviews. Until next time, happy gaming, everyone!