Shantae is one of those series that just gets better all the time, from the first Shantae on the GBC being one of the most innovative games on that platform, to Shantae and The Seven Sirens, which has perfected the polish of the series. Most entries in the series have a good degree of polish, but how are the older titles, going back to the first sequel, Risky’s Revenge? The game is now coming to the Nintendo Switch and Xbox One as well as the Windows 10 Store, and it is time once again to take a look.
Shantae Risky’s Revenge Director’s Cut is the follow up to the GBC classic, and for the most part is an absolute blast to play. The movement is so precise, that there is no way to blame poor controls when you mess up., and the levels are awesome to explore. The game brings us more of the enemies the series is known for and they come in diverse groups. Enemies have always been a major highpoint of series, and stand out well here. Fighting is on point and manages to have a charm that many other games lack. Shantae will jump, run, and attack enemies, and find numerous powerups along the way. She will also encounter other characters like the fan favourite Rottytops as well as Sky and Bolo, as well as numerous recurring baddies such as Ammo Baron and Hypno Baron, and of course the namesake baddie Risky Boots. Each encounter is well planned out and rather funny as well. The game has a nice sense of humor and a sharp wit, which is very much appreciated.
Risky’s Revenge DC may not as big or innovative as the later Shantae which came after it, but it is still very much worth getting. Shantae and her cast of characters have real fleshed out personalities and it feels great to interact with everyone. The various transformations are nice to find, and there are so many secrets that are there to uncover. While the game can be suggestive at times, it is ultimately harmless and nothing to worry about for younger players and their parents. Risky’s Revenge also contains an alternate costume for Shantae, that grants her more magical ability to use, but at the same time will cause her to take more damage. so strategy is required.
I must say that the game is gorgeous with its pixel art design and runs well on the Switch, where the game was reviewed on and you will really appreciate just how beautiful it is, only when you start to play it. The music is also fantastic and I have not heard such great music since the last Shantae game I played. The sounds perfectly convey each scene and set the mood and ambience, and on the PC and Xbox One, the game shines as well. The music also helps this game stand out more, and everything just feels well done and polished. It may not be as good as the later games as I said, but that is because the later games built on this one and had more room to innovate.
If you like Metroidvania games, then you need to get this one, and I cannot recommend it enough. This is one of the best games you can play.
Disclaimer: A Review Key Was Provided