RUFFY AND THE RIVERSIDE is as loud as its completely capitalised title. It shouts “Look at me” from the rooftops as it piles on layer after layer of gaming madness. Think of classic 3D open-world platform puzzlers from a bygone era, and you will not be far off the mark. Accordingly, it is hectic, overwhelming, but brilliantly zany.
This platforming action-adventure was developed by Zockrates Laboratories UG and published by Phiphen Games. It is a single-player title with a cheeky and fun story. However, it is its unusual core gameplay mechanic that gets under your skin (more on that later). Additionally, there are mountains of side quests, loads of collectables to find, and a wonderful dash of old-school shenanigans to keep you focused.
RUFFY AND THE RIVERSIDE is doomed from the off.
A stylish and glitzy world needs to be protected. Unfortunately, an ancient power cares not about this ideal as it smashes its way through Riverside. This Hollywood-esque land deserves to shine brightly. However, danger is around every corner, and a hero must step forward to save the day.
Ruffy is that hero, and he will use his SWAP power and his friend Pip to prove his worth. Guided by Sir Eddler, this wannabe hero moves from location to location, helping the locals and generally being a top-notch fella.
Puzzles, puzzles, and world-altering mechanics.
Puzzles shouldn’t hurt your brain. However, RUFFY AND THE RIVERSIDE didn’t get this memo. The NPC-fueled action is filled with crazy tasks, fetch questions, collectables, and other minor elements. It is almost as if the game wants to push you to your edge and force you to keep on working. Though this isn’t a problem if you love the genre, it can be pretty overwhelming. If you add on racing, a mind-boggling collection of riddles, capes, and a whole host of other things, you have your work cut out for you.
However, it is the SWAP mechanic that shines throughout the 7 unique areas. You are destined to find each letter of the Riverside sign. If you fail this task, the world will not shine again. Consequently, you must work with Sir Eddler if you wish to succeed.
The SWAP mechanic allows you to alter the surrounding world. Moreover, you may combine elements to solve more complex problems. This was truly special and something that makes RUFFY AND THE RIVERSIDE stand out from the crowd.
RUFFY AND THE RIVERSIDE looks amazing.
First, I wasn’t sure about what I was looking at. RUFFY AND THE RIVERSIDE appears to be childish and a little silly. Yet, as time passes, you fall for its incredible charms. The paper-like world bends and changes between 2D and 3D madness. Moreover, each area is unique, and this reduces repetition. Finally, you can edit the world to your liking. Want something a little different? Hit the editor and make it happen. Though this isn’t essential, who doesn’t want to change things up now and then?
The audio is just as good. The background music is upbeat, fun, and wonderfully atmospheric. You may complain about the lack of acting, but I think it would have been cliché, annoying, and unnecessary. Instead, you enjoy text-based interactions throughout.
It can be tricky.
I had to work hard to master RUFFY AND THE RIVERSIDE. Each core mechanic flows with the never-ending missions. Subsequently, you are climbing a steep mountain from the outset. However, once you get to grips with things, and you know what is asked of you, you will have a great time.
Flying through the core ideas reduces the replay value and longevity. As such, I suggest sticking around and trying to complete some side quests. There is so much to see and do that it would be a shame to avoid some of the more fun elements, even if it seems occasionally OTT.
RUFFY AND THE RIVERSIDE is a slow burner.
If you give up on games too easily, RUFFY AND THE RIVERSIDE may not get your juices flowing. You must invest a few hours before things take off. Additionally, it requires plenty of patience as you learn the core mechanics. However, if you have the time and the right mindset, you’ll find a gem of an indie title that will amuse you. Accordingly, I think it’s great and I recommend buying it here! Can you save Riverside and the day? Master your skills, help the locals, and rebuild that sign.
