Kero Blaster is a delightful retro platformer that will appeal to fans of classic games like Mega Man and Metroid. Developed by Studio Pixel, the mastermind behind the critically acclaimed Cave Story, this game delivers a nostalgic experience with a modern twist.
The game follows the story of a frog named Kerotan who works at the Cat and Frog Company as a janitor. However, when mysterious creatures invade the company, Kerotan must take up his trusty blaster and embark on a quest to save his colleagues.
One of the standout features of Kero Blaster is its tight and fluid controls. Moving and jumping as Kerotan feels smooth and responsive, making it a joy to navigate the various platforming challenges. The level design is well-crafted, with each stage offering a unique set of obstacles and enemies to overcome.
What sets Kero Blaster apart from other platformers is its innovative weapon system. Instead of collecting different power-ups, players can upgrade their blaster by purchasing new abilities from the shop. These upgrades add a layer of depth and strategy to the gameplay, allowing players to customize their playstyle and tackle challenges in different ways.
The pixel art in Kero Blaster is charming and nostalgic, reminiscent of classic games from the 8-bit era. The vibrant colors and detailed sprite work bring the game world to life, and the character designs are cute and memorable. The soundtrack, composed by Daisuke 'Pixel' Amaya, is catchy and fitting, complementing the gameplay and adding to the overall retro atmosphere.
While Kero Blaster offers a rewarding and enjoyable experience, it is not without its flaws. The game can be quite challenging, sometimes bordering on frustrating, especially in later stages. Some players may find the difficulty level to be a bit too steep, which could potentially discourage newcomers to the genre.
Overall, Kero Blaster is a fantastic retro platformer that successfully captures the essence of classic games while introducing its own unique mechanics. With its tight controls, innovative weapon system, and nostalgic pixel art, this game is a must-play for fans of the genre. However, the high level of difficulty may not appeal to everyone. Nevertheless, if you're up for a challenging adventure with a twist, grab your blaster and join Kerotan in his quest.
