Anarkade is a slow-burner. Accordingly, it took me a while to understand its basic ideas and simple gameplay. However, once it clicked, I couldn’t help but adore its pixelated charms. Furthermore, it has a proper old-school edge that made me reminisce about my childhood.
This arcade shooter was developed by Pixelatom and published by Blowfish Studios. Moreover, it has some platform elements and procedurally generated levels. Consequently, no playthrough is the same and this was great. Unfortunately, though, there is limited depth and each short match follows a similar pattern. This was a shame as the developer could have added plenty of unique ideas. In its current state, you can enjoy it casually as the action does occasionally outstay its welcome.
Anarkade has no story.
When madness and violence are your central ideas, a plot doesn’t need to be present. Anarkade takes this to the next level as there are no characters to empathise with and no back story to consider. I found this to be an unnecessary shortcoming as there could have been rivalries between each protagonist and some antagonists to tackle.
The lack of depth only enhances my thoughts on the casual experience. With nothing to work toward and no characters to boo or cheer for, you plod along regardless. Now, this may seem very negative, but I don’t understand why a cheesy 80s-style good vs evil mindset wasn’t incorporated.
Fast action and limited tactics.
Anarkade focuses on short, sharp arena battles that push you hard. Each stage is set in a unique pixelated backdrop and you must consider each obstacle if you wish to succeed. As each round evolves, you must grab crates to improve your weaponry. At first, you start with a knife and a pistol. However, you can upgrade this to a rocket launcher, shotgun, and much more.
Alongside this, you can leap between platforms and bounce off of walls. Furthermore, you can fall between gaps and appear through the ceiling. These tactical elements were great as they added depth to an otherwise shallow game. Moreover, it was an interesting way to wind up your friends. As they aim, you can act like a ninja and avoid their advances. This amusing element causes plenty of arguments and a high level of smugness.
Anarkade is wonderfully pixelated.
If you want a modern title that will punish your GPU, this isn’t the game. Anarkade is brilliantly pixelated and undeniably simple. Each level has a unique theme and there are some obstacles to address and overcome. On top of this, you may customise your pixelated hero. Though this doesn’t add much to the action, it was fun nonetheless. The animation is as rudimentary as you’d expect. However, this adds to the old-school charm.
The audio is an angry and energetic blend of songs and sound effects. The high-energy music blurs into the background as you try to tackle your opponents. Though I expected it to be more memorable, it didn’t bother me. When the action became heated, I was too focused on avoiding my foes and staying alive.
Simple controls.
Mastering the controls is a straightforward task. You must move, jump shoot, or slash with your knife. Each input is responsive, and navigating the world is a pleasure as a consequence. Though I’d have liked some character-specific combos or special moves, I enjoyed the rudimentary gameplay.
Anarkade splits its action between local and online multiplayer battles. Furthermore, you can play Deathmatch or a crate-based points system. Both are chaotic and winning either tests your resolve. As such, there is some replay value and longevity.
Anarkade has a limited appeal.
Unfortunately, the rudimentary arcade gameplay lacks depth. No story and simple mechanics will not appeal to everyone. However, if you want a casual arena-based title that is great to play with friends, then Anarkade ticks those boxes. Accordingly, it is good and I recommend buying it here! Can you win every battle? Customise your fighter, upgrade your weapons, and outthink your foes.
