We’ve all had that gaming experience where we feel completely lost. Normally, it happens when you jump into a sequel and the story is insane, and the world is crazy. This is exactly how I feel about No More Heroes III! This bright, fast-paced and Manga/Anime-inspired beast is weird, amusing, and oddly compelling. Furthermore, it is by far the greatest game in the franchise. Thanks to its wicked sense of humour, slick combat, and open-world setting, you experience an acid trip of a game.
Developed by Grasshopper Manufacture Inc. and published by Marvellous Inc., this is an open-world adventure title. What’s more, it looks incredible, has some of the best swordplay I’ve experienced, and is undeniably odd. Further to this, the script is excellent; the gameplay is balanced, and you use a toilet to save your progress. In short, it throws in many curveballs to keep you on your toes.
No More Heroes III is a story of triumph.
The series follows Travis Touchdown, an Otaku assassin who is badass, witty, and obsessed with Asian culture. In this iteration, Travis has spent his last penny on a beam Katana. Consequently, he must get to work to refill his coffers. After meeting Sylvia, Travis does what Travis does best, and he slices, dices, and finishes his target’s life. However, you are quickly advised that there are 10 better, stronger, and more impressive contracts to complete. Yet, that is not all. No, because there is also a hit on your head, and you’re quite a valuable asset.
This is No More Heroes III in a nutshell. The action flows around an open and seamlessly brilliant world. Yet, the focus of attention is on each of the 10 boss battles you must complete. These fantastic encounters are punctuated by phenomenal cutscenes, unique mechanics, and eye-wateringly difficult tests. As such, you’ll desperately grind for XP as you hopelessly try to upgrade Travis’s base skills and stats. This is probably the low point of the action, as it feels grindy, drawn out, and possibly repetitive. However, the range of side missions is interesting, and thankfully, they retain the same charm as the main story.
Side quests, and slick swordplay.
I’ve alluded to the open world. However, in reality, it is more of a micro hub, comprising very little action. This may seem dull, but it wasn’t so bad, as each of the 6 areas has a unique style. These amusing nods to other gaming franchises are tongue-in-cheek and will make you chuckle. What’s more, the never-ending supply of side quests, collectables, and clothing options keeps things interesting.
The additional jobs are split into 2 categories; volunteer work for the community, and defence missions. Both tasks reward you with money to put towards ranked battles, but the requirements vary greatly. If you tackle the volunteer missions, you’ll cut grass for your neighbours, clean toilets, or pick up garbage. Now, this may seem tedious and boring, but it was oddly captivating. However, if you take on the defence battles, you’ll hone your combat skills, earn cash, and work towards each glorious boss encounter.
Whichever fight you undertake, you’ll be amazed by the incredibly slick swordplay. Furthermore, the attention to detail and energy system prevent it from being another mindless hack ‘n’ slash game. Instead, you must time your strikes, plan your defence, and recharge your beam Katana. If you fail to do so, you’ll be pounded into next week by every opponent you face. Accordingly, planning, patience, and sushi are a must if you wish to succeed.
No More Heroes III feels the next-gen power.
Originally released for Switch in 2019, No More Heroes III was laced with problems. However, the 2022 update has ironed out the creases, and it performs admirably. With native 4k visuals and smooth 60 FPS action, it looks incredible. Furthermore, the cutscenes, backdrops, and animation are brilliant. I adored the clean-cut Manga/Anime influence, the insane comic book touches, and the tongue-in-cheek nods to pop culture. Subsequently, it is a colour overload, but one that isn’t overwhelming or OTT.
The brilliance continues in the audio. The zany and loud soundtrack is matched by the excellent acting. Consequently, the story is full of energy and timeless humour. What’s more, the futuristic sound effects work perfectly with the Matrix-like combat. It was easy to fall for its unusual charms, even if it was confusing most of the time.
Clever controls.
Though the maddening story and excellent aesthetics will steal the show, we mustn’t forget the clever controls. Thanks to a well-considered UI, and simple approach, the combat is incredibly smooth and enjoyable to experience. On top of this, using sushi to replenish health or energy is a simple task. With standard combat mechanics and some unusual special moves, it offers both familiarity and originality.
I’m theory, the semi-linear story and hub-like world should reduce the game’s appeal. However, in reality, the vast amount of collectables and non-stop side quests will keep you playing. Alongside this, there are many custom options for Travis if you wish to get creative.
No More Heroes III is wonderfully unique.
Whether you are a veteran or new to the franchise, it matters not. Everybody will be confused as hell, as they tackle this insane and deliberately exuberant title. Accordingly, you may be put off playing it. Yet, I urge you to rethink your decision. Consequently, once you understand its madness, you’ll fall for its crazy charms and silly story. As such, I can easily recommend you buy it here! Will you eliminate your targets and become the number one assassin? Slice, dice, and annihilate every foe you face.
