After 26 years on the shelf, Battletoads has smashed back into the gaming scene, but not everyone is so thrilled about that. Fans are divided over the new title by Microsoft, Rare and DLaLa Studios, because of how far removed it is from the original NES beat 'em up series. Some think the new style and gameplay is refreshing, but others are not as into it.
The new title looks to expand on the genre-changing play found in the original Battletoads, but for some players, this adds too much to really work with. While the original games were beat em' ups with small sections of speed bike and boss segments, the new one tries to push the limits and adds QTEs, twin stick shooters and platforming. It tries too hard to do too much, some argue -- and it's to the game's detriment.
Why Some Players Don't Like It
Another big issue is the art style. Using a unique style of 2.5D hand-drawn graphics, Battletoads gives off a Saturday morning cartoon vibe, which is what the developers wanted. However, there's a bigger problem here: Older fans of the series claim they've been shoved to the side and all the attitude has been replaced by an overcomplicated, cartoonish plot.
Furthermore, the game has a shorter length and lower difficulty than previous titles, which -- for some players -- means it isn't worth the price tag, which isn't that high. There is a way to select difficulty, however, and those looking for the challenge of the older games can still find that in the game's aptly named "Battletoad" difficulty mode.
Why Some Players Are Into It
Although many fans have criticized these aspects of the new Battletoads, others have embraced them. The aim of this new title is to draw in a new audience, which means catering the art and play style to new gamers. It looks like a cartoon for a reason, which some think is a positive move for the franchise in order to keep it relevant with today's audience.
The only thing everyone can seemingly agree on is that the music in Battletoads is its biggest strength. The soundtrack incorporates five tracks from older games and goes for a hard rock vibe that fits right in.