I love a chilled, feel-good game! They make a nice break from the norm, and the lack of violence and death is cleansing for the soul. As such, when I was offered Tanuki Sunset, I couldn’t pass. This bizarre title is colourful, charming, and wonderfully laid back. However, its limited gameplay holds it back.
Developed by Rewind games/Bromio and published by Digerati, this is a relaxed skateboarding title. Yet, unlike others in this category, there isn’t an extensive list of tricks to perform, and the gnarly factor is almost nil. Instead, you enjoy a simple adventure title filled with rubbish, food, and the occasional jump.
Tanuki Sunset is brilliantly abstract.
Whenever a developer incorporates anthropomorphic animals as their protagonists, I smile. There is something undeniably creepy about creatures displaying human characteristics, but I love it nonetheless. Accordingly, Tanuki Sunset is a strange game that is brilliantly abstract at the same time.
You control a raccoon called Tanuki. This chilled-out and cool rubbish eater has a dream. That dream is to appear on the front cover of FISH magazine. However, only the greatest on a longboard is given that honour. Subsequently, Tanuki sets out to prove he is worthy of this accolade. To do this, he must ride across mountain ranges, through bustling city streets, and along sandy beaches. If you successfully avoid every obstacle, you’ll arrive at the big ramp where you can prove your legendary status.
A simple story with a basic approach.
Tanuki Sunset won’t win the award for the best story. Yet, this matters not. The simple story is complemented by its basic approach. Effectively, you must ride along an ever-changing path filled with obstacles. As you speed along, you’ll destroy rubbish, collect Tanuki bits, and produce the odd trick. Alongside this, you’ll leap off ramps, drift around sharp corners, and pray you don’t fall to your death. If you fall, and you will, you’ll restart at the last checkpoint and try again.
This is the main body of the game. But there is plenty more on offer as well. Alongside the main story is a skate shop filled with custom items and an arcade machine. This works as the central hub for the action. Consequently, whenever a run is completed, you’ll return to the shop to buy new gear, play the arcade machine, or revisit each stage. I liked this basic approach, and though the customisation was stripped-back, it was enjoyable nevertheless.
Tanuki Sunset looks stunning.
I’m a big fan of unusual-looking games. As such, Tanuki Sunset immediately grabbed my attention. Its blend of low-poly backdrops, abstract imagery, and vivid colours was incredible to observe. On top of this, the simple animation and tight-level design ensure you must always stay alert. Furthermore, I enjoyed the arcade scoring system and the easy-to-understand UI.
If you enjoy skateboarding, skiing, or surfing, you’ll love the amazing audio. The eclectic blend of genres ensures that the music is as chilled out as the visuals. What’s more, the occasional upbeat song added energy to the proceedings. The music works perfectly with the simple sound effects. You’ll adore the sound of wheels on tarmac, the rushing wind, and the grinding of metal on metal.
Perfect controls.
With many tight spaces to weave through, and dangers just around the corner, the controls had to be good. Thankfully, Tanuki Sunset got this aspect spot on. With responsive inputs and a straightforward controller layout, the setup was perfect. Consequently, it was an easy game to pick up and play.
Unfortunately, where Tanuki Sunset falls short, is its replay value. Because it lacks depth, it impacts longevity and appeal. Thankfully, however, the arcade machine will challenge you. With an array of stages on offer and a leaderboard to top, it gets your competitive juices flowing.
Tanuki Sunset is a wonderful, casual experience.
If you want an all-out action-packed sports title, then Tanuki Sunset isn’t for you. However, if you want a fun, relaxed, and casual experience, then this will tick those boxes. I adored the stunning aesthetics, the challenging stages and the strange characters. Yes, the lack of depth was a little disappointing, but that shouldn’t put you off. Accordingly, it’s an excellent title and I recommend that you buy it here! Can you prove your worth and make it to the cover of FISH magazine? Ride, grind, and drift your way to legendary status.
