Super Mega Zero is a new, extremely fast-paced puzzle platformer on Nintendo Switch. This title combines tight precision and shoot-em-up elements to create a frantic arcade title. As someone who has become used to the laid-back nature of the Nintendo Switch, having a game that turns my knuckles white and makes me perch on the end of my seat is a refreshing change of pace.
This title features hundreds of hand-crafted, incredibly precise levels which may not be for the casual gamer looking for something simple to play. If you’re ready to face the frustration of seeing the same level time and time again, then Super Mega Zero might be a challenge you’re willing to face.
Super Mega Zero is available on Nintendo Switch and Steam.
Playing as the number zero, you’re tasked with killing the kill screen. It’s ironic, right? But there’s more to it than just that. The kill screen has kidnapped your love interest, a similar number with a pink bow. As the hero and knight in shining armor, it’s time to begin the grand chase I am sure you’re all too familiar with now.
I went into this title completely blind, except for knowing it hosts 8-bit arcade-style graphics. It’s been a while since a good arcade-style game was released on Nintendo Switch. So there was some sort of expectations for this game to meet. The game features a lot of bright colors and flashing or moving mechanics, which encourages the fast-paced nature.
It’s important to be accurate
But being fast doesn’t always mean being accurate – and this game requires a lot of accuracies. If you ever played geometry dash when you were younger, then certain elements like jumping around and making sure you don’t plummet into spikes probably feel familiar. Luckily for anyone who struggles with accuracy like me – throughout levels you can collect upgrades that will help enhance and encourage easier gameplay. I definitely benefited from this element. It also helped me not feel so frustrated every time I needed to repeat a level. Which I won’t admit how many times I had to do.
There are hundreds of levels to complete within this title so you will never have a lack of content to engage with. Each level proposes new threats and encourages you to use new skills. Even though the game is somewhat repetitive in certain parts, having a mass of levels makes it easier to put down and pick up again at a later date if you’re craving that adrenaline rush. To add to the challenge, Super Mega Zero also introduces collectible Pi’s to help you beat your high score in each level.
Some intense chiptune(s)
One thing that absolutely needs to be noted is the phenomenal chiptune soundtrack. This is what I found to really hone in on the arcade feel that Super Mega Zero wants to present. The soundtrack accompanies your adventure towards facing your enemy and is pretty epic. It’s got that retro energy you’d expect from a title like this.
Final thoughts
There isn’t much to this game, but that doesn’t make it feel any less addicting. It tells you everything from the get-go and you can understand what to expect by just watching the trailer. It’s fun, but I can see why some players would find it disengaging. For a console like the Nintendo Switch, I can see Super Mega Zero being played handheld over playing it docked. It’s got the charm of having an arcade in your pocket – but not much more than that.
