Firefighters are often teased for their ability to sleep on the job. Moreover, there are familiar cat jokes to deal with as well. However, Nuclear Blaze makes no mention of beds, but it does have a healthy dose of cats to keep things real. This obscene story of heroic deeds and scientific madness is oddly captivating but far too short. Thankfully, though, the developers have incorporated several game modes to try to alleviate this issue.
Developed by Deepnight Games and published by RED ART GAMES, this is a dynamic 2D action title. What’s more, there are some platforming elements and a smattering of tactical nuance as well. Consequently, this fast-paced experience is exciting, unpredictable, and occasionally a little unfair. However, it is these cruel moments that make it addictive and enjoyable.
Nuclear Blaze tells a tale of danger.
The mysterious undertones and unrelenting danger keep you on your toes. Furthermore, the drip-fed lore enhances the secrecy and keeps you guessing throughout. On top of this, you are kept in the dark until the very end, and that created a suspenseful atmosphere.
You control a heroic firefighter that is split from his team. As he enters a strange underground base, his radio stops working. Subsequently, he is left on his own to battle never-ending fires. Alongside this, he must try to find the 16 hidden cats and take them to safety. This task isn’t easy, as the paths are often concealed or hidden behind locked doors. If the protagonist completes each stage, he’ll discover the cause of the devastation before saving the day, once and for all.
So many fires!
Nuclear Blaze isn’t shy when it comes to fires! Every level is saturated by burning walls and floors. However, that is not all. No, there is also the risk of electrocution, automated turrets to avoid, and nuclear waste to jump over. On top of this, you must dodge falling debris whilst managing your limited water supply. Accordingly, this isn’t simply a game of putting out fires. Instead, you must be tactically savvy and save water where ever possible.
The premise of the game is straightforward. The hero must explore each level whilst quenching fires. Along the way, he’ll locate water stations to fill up his tank. However, extinguishing every blaze isn’t easy. You’ll have to locate valves to shut off each gas supply, activate switches to start sprinklers and avoid never-ending dangers. Additionally, there are time-specific tasks that add untold pressure to an already tough endeavour.
Power-ups and platforming mayhem.
The stage design is rudimentary but well laid out. Consequently, the platforming elements were fun, challenging, and interesting to navigate. Alongside this, the hidden pathways were tough to locate and saving each cat isn’t an easy task. Furthermore, unless you unlock the “Hold my Beer” mode, you won’t be able to explore every area. As such, Nuclear Blaze demands that you keep playing if you wish to complete it.
What was also great was the small list of power-ups. Whether it was a super hose to change the direction of the water, an umbrella to protect your hero, or the ability to dodge fire, it all adds to the gameplay. Additionally, you’ll learn to use your hose whilst on a ladder and you’ll gain additional water storage to fight fires for longer. However, these power-ups are nicely balanced as the action gets progressively harder.
Nuclear Blaze isn’t the prettiest of games.
Graphics don’t bother me. Therefore, I don’t mind the pixelated revolution that is taking over the gaming industry. Nuclear Blaze is one such title that focuses its energy on its gameplay rather than its looks. Accordingly, the basic finish won’t be to everyone’s liking. I, however, enjoyed the contrasting imagery, the brash colours, and the excellent stage design.
A dramatic game needs an aggressive soundtrack. Thankfully, Nuclear Blaze delivers this with its booming audio. The upbeat music and domineering sound effects create an oppressive atmosphere. Subsequently, it is a high-energy affair that doesn’t disappoint.
Brilliant controls.
This dynamic action game could have been a pig to play. With so much going on and plenty of pressure to deal with, it can be hectic. However, the incredible control layout and responsive inputs help to keep you on track. Furthermore, other than the action button, there is nothing else to focus on. Consequently, you can quench each fire without becoming distracted.
Nuclear Blaze impressed me with its mountain of settings. You can adjust the difficulty, the amount of water, the spread of each fire and much more. Alongside this, there is a kids mode and once you complete the game, there is the “Hold my Beer” option. This opens up a wide variety of additional rooms to explore and extra challenges to overcome. As such, it has plenty of replay value and longevity.
Nuclear Blaze is short but incredibly sweet.
I didn’t know what to expect when I installed this title. However, my short time with it was thoroughly enjoyable. The balanced gameplay and interesting mechanics keep you on your toes. Moreover, the extra game modes ensure that you want to return for more. Accordingly, I adored it and I recommend that you buy it here! Can you quench every fire, rescue every cat, and save the day? Jump, roll, and explore this fire-filled underground base of doom.
