It's good to see developers haven't forgotten about good, old fashioned 2-D platformers like Mario and Metrod, even if this game is in "2.5-D". The game follows a very wacky character named, creatively enough, 'Splosion Man, who's only power is "sploding" himself three times in a row in order to pass through the many obstacles the secret lab that contains him holds. Jumping, wall bouncing and killing evil scientist along the way is only a plus.
I couldn't help but to think about old WB cartoons like Animaniacs or Loony Toons when playing this game. It focuses on the humor and silliness that simply comes from destroying everything and looking goofy doing it. Honestly, what more can you ask? 'Splosion Man's childish demeanor sings to anyone that frankly wants to bounce around sounding like an airplane. I great throw back to anyone who grew up watching Bugs Bunny, like me.
However, while the game's main character is pretty ridiculous, the actual game play is anything but child's play. 'Splosion man does a nice job introducing new ideas like bouncing off walls and blowing up explosive barrels by acquainting you slowing to each task. But actually timing every single task right will require many replays just to memorize the pattern of what comes next. The great idea of easy to learn, hard to master certainly applies here.
However, that's not to say that once you get stuck on a level, you put down the game forever. Die enough times and the game gives the option of "The Way of the Coward". Selecting this allows you to move on to the next level and come back later. You may not get to keep your score for the skiped level but it does avoid too much frustration from just barely missing the timing. Fair warning though, you'll have to wear a tutu until you complete a level.
Without spoiling too much, I'd like to say boss battles are just as creative and memorable as the game itself but also just as tedious and frustrating as you will die multiple times before understand what to do. These too can be passed like regular levels, so don't fret too much if you can't find that weak point.
Unfortunately, there is little replay value to this game. Sure, there's finding the hidden cake in each level but it's really only for achievement points. There's also multiplayer but it is little more than the same levels over again but built to make everyone work as a team. I didn't find either option to be an appealing reason to go back and play levels over again.
'Spolsion Man is one of the best xbox arcade games out there right now. Platforming has been over looked for a long time now but I hope this is the start some new titles to come.
The Good:
A great addition to anyone's platforming repertoire. Though it is challenging, frustrating levels can be played again later making the first play through enjoyable beginning to end.
The Bad:
There really isn't much of a point for playing the game again. Camera can be a problem sometimes. $10 seems a little steep for the game.
Bottom Line:
You won't be sorry for getting 'Splosion man. It's a great game start to finish but after finishing it, there's really nothing left to do but 'splode some more.
Review based on the xbox 360 version, and I believe, the only version of the game. Sorry Sony and Nintendo people.
P2 loves missiles even more after playing this. Play the first boss and you'll know why.
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