“Frontier Hunter,” offers a classic Metroidvania experience with a mix of both highs and lows making for a enjoyable adventure. While it’s clear that the developers had some great ideas, the execution leaves room for improvement in several areas.
Cheesy and forgettable.
The story, while not particularly memorable, serves its purpose in driving the player forward. It’s not the worst narrative by any means, but it’s not the highlight of the game either. The plot introduces characters and objectives in a light hearted, cheesy manner that the game doesn’t take too seriously. This relaxed tone can be refreshing for players looking for a more laid-back experience rather than a deep, narrative-driven journey.
I never want to fight another mosquito.
Visually, the game struggles to leave a lasting impression. The anime-style character designs are charming even if they could use some work too. But they clash with the outdated, uninspired bundle of assets used for the backgrounds. This results in an aesthetic that feels disjointed, with areas that fail to distinguish themselves or create a cohesive world. The lack of visual variety also makes navigation and backtracking a chore, especially in the early stages, as the environments are so unimaginative that they become difficult to remember or map out in your mind. At times I felt like I was playing a weird Bennet Foddy’s metroidvania.
Tedious enemy encounters further exacerbate this issue, as some foes, particularly the small flying ones, are more frustrating than challenging due to poor aerial combat options for a good chunk of the game. This, combined with a bizarre decision to use air movement for swimming in water sections, results in gameplay moments that are more perplexing than enjoyable. A huge redeeming factor is that around the halfway mark there is a skill that allowed me to dash through the enemies which made traversal and backtracking a lot less of a chore.
Combat almost worthy of a Beyonetta title.
Where the game truly shines is in its combat system, which is both satisfying and fun. The introduction of three distinct characters, each with unique combat styles, adds a layer of depth and variety that keeps the gameplay engaging. The ability to swap characters on the fly allows for dynamic combat strategies. With customization options, including two weapon slots and two spells per character, offer plenty of opportunities for experimentation. Each character also has access to three unique weapon types, which further enhances the combat’s versatility. The inclusion of skill books and blueprints for crafting gear that feels impactful without and encourages smacking every inch of the scenery for a chance at a hidden wall.
While the game’s overall progression is well-balanced, with the player generally matching the difficulty of new areas, those who enjoy thorough exploration may find themselves overpowered by the time they reach a boss. This can lead to anti-climactic encounters where bosses are quickly dispatched before they can pose a real threat.
“Maybe wait for a sale on this one.”
Ultimately, this game is a mixed bag. Its combat is addictive and well-designed, offering plenty of content, secrets, and mechanics to keep players engaged. However, the lack luster graphics, at times frustrating enemy design, and odd gameplay choices hold it back from reaching its full potential. It’s a game worth playing, but perhaps one best picked up during a sale.
