FreakZone Games is an interesting developer, being the creative mind behind titles like Manos: The Hands of Fate, Knight Terrors, and of course Angry Video Game Nerd 1+2. The latest from the studio is Spectacular Sparky, a throwback to classic run ‘n gun games that feels both like a modern title and a game out of its time. Think back to the Mascot Platformer craze of the ‘90s and things will start to make sense as the bosses are huge, the music is in your face and the game bleeds charm.
Sparky is a rabbit-like creature similar to Max from Sam and Max, and has the same psychotic attitude dressed up in a loveable package. Sparky looks adorable but is also a dangerous bounty hunter working with his associate Shigg to track down criminals. Along the way, Sparky will use a variety of weapons and abilities and the results are a gateway to fun.
There are a number of mechanics to keep an eye on here, such as Sparky’s dash ability which uses stamina but is key to defeating most of the bosses. Sparky can also jump multiple times in the air, but this uses stamina as well, and so must be managed carefully. Lastly, Sparky can stand still and shoot in any direction, and this can take some time to get used to.
One thing that must be monitored constantly is the weapon’s heat meter. Each weapon has a meter that builds as it is used, and the weapon will go away if it overheats. Players will not be left without a weapon but will go back to the default gun instead.
Some of the weapons change things up greatly, such as heat-seeking missiles, flamethrowers and more. Players can hold two weapons at a time and each time a new weapon is picked up, one of the weapons held will go away. As continuous use of the weapons causes them to overheat, the best solution is to keep hitting fire and not holding down the fire buttons.
Spectacular Sparky is a bonkers game that changes things up constantly. No two areas are alike, and the bosses are some of the best in FreakZone’s repertoire so far. Dashing, as mentioned before, is a must in order to defeat the bosses and some are more difficult than others. The hard ones though will indeed give a true challenge to players, so this will not be a cakewalk.
Some areas will change up the gameplay completely by having Sparky use a variety of vehicles and these areas are more like side-scrolling bullet hell shoot ‘em ups. The changeup in gameplay is welcome though, and it just adds to how offbeat the game is. The vehicles used include Sparky’s spaceship, a hang-glider, and even a jet-ski in multiple environments.
This isn’t the longest game around, but it is a fun one. Beating the game will unlock Frenzy mode and that is an even harder version of the game. This is a game meant to be replayed multiple times and there is so much to love here. Spectacular Sparky is highly recommended.
Images were taken from Nintendo.co.uk
Disclaimer: A review key was provided.