Growl on PS5: The Retro Arcade Game You NEED to Play
1Growl, originally released in 1991 by Taito, is a nostalgic beat-em-up arcade game that has made its way to the PlayStation 5, delivering an enhanced retro gaming experience. Set in the early 20th century, Growl combines exhilarating side-scrolling action with a unique conservationist storyline, where players take on the role of wildlife protection rangers battling against poachers. The game’s vintage aesthetic, complete with pixelated graphics, unforgettable character sprites, and dynamic environments, has been faithfully preserved while benefiting from the power of modern gaming hardware on PS5.
Story and Setting
Growl is set in a world where poaching is at an all-time high. Players control one of four rangers—armed with fists, whips, grenades, and more—tasked with defending the planet’s wildlife from ruthless poachers and mercenaries. The game’s campaign takes you through various landscapes, including forests, jungles, caves, and towns, all teeming with enemies. In a refreshing twist, animals such as lions, elephants, and eagles help the player fight against the poachers, adding a wild and exciting dynamic to the gameplay.
Gameplay and Combat
At its core, Growl is a fast-paced, beat-em-up action game. Players face waves of enemies, including foot soldiers, bosses, and even tanks, using a mix of hand-to-hand combat and weapons picked up along the way. The controls are simple but effective, allowing for combos and fluid movements that feel intuitive and satisfying. While the combat system is rooted in arcade simplicity, the game offers plenty of variation with environmental hazards, destructible objects, and unique power-ups scattered throughout the levels.
The PS5 version introduces smoother animations, crisp sound effects, and enhanced resolution, making retro pixel art pop on modern screens. Players can now enjoy an almost lag-free experience, with faster load times and stable frame rates thanks to the power of the PS5’s hardware.
Multiplayer and Co-op
A hallmark of retro arcade games like Growl is its local co-op mode, which is fully supported on the PS5. Invite a friend to join in and relive the glory of classic couch co-op gaming. Battling alongside a teammate doubles the chaos and fun, as you strategically team up to take down large groups of enemies or powerful bosses.
Retro Nostalgia Meets Modern Enhancements
Despite its old-school charm, Growl on PS5 has been updated to make the most of the console’s features. The game includes quality-of-life improvements like customizable control schemes, save states, and the ability to rewind time—perfect for reliving key moments or undoing unfortunate deaths. Additionally, players can toggle between the classic pixel graphics and a smoother, more modernized visual mode, offering both nostalgia and enhanced immersion.
The soundtrack, a mix of upbeat retro tunes, has been remastered to deliver crisp sound through modern audio systems. You’ll find yourself humming along to the infectious music as you plow through hordes of enemies, adding to the overall arcade vibe.
Why Play Growl on PS5?
Growl is a hidden gem for fans of retro arcade games and beat 'em ups. Its simple yet addictive gameplay is perfect for quick gaming sessions, but the charm of its conservationist theme and animal allies sets it apart from other games in the genre. Whether reliving childhood memories or discovering this classic for the first time, Growl on PS5 provides a delightful combination of retro gameplay and modern enhancements.
With its retro aesthetic, fast-paced combat, and co-op multiplayer, Growl is more than just a trip down memory lane—it’s a high-energy action game that still holds up today. Whether you're a fan of arcade classics or looking for a new multiplayer game to enjoy with friends, Growl delivers a wild, nostalgic ride that feels right at home on the PS5.