DUCK: Dangerous Ultimate Cartridge Kidnapper has a glorious retro edge. Furthermore, it is devilishly naughty as each game is designed to test and trick you. However, it is badly flawed as you cannot surpass the second chapter. Sadly, this leaves you frustrated and missing around 80% of the games.
This mini-game title was developed by Duck Team and published by Valkyrie Interactive LLP. It is both a single-player and a couch cooperative title. I didn’t test the latter option, but I imagine it would be fantastic if the game weren’t broken.
DUCK: Dangerous Ultimate Cartridge Kidnapper tells a silly story.
Discovering a mystery game will entice any hardcore gamer to become giddy. This is exactly what happens when a duck finds a 100-in-1 gaming cartridge. Unfortunately, it is a trick by an evil spirit, and the duck must complete every game to escape the curse.
Sadly, my duck never found freedom as the game continually crashed. A 3D maze where keys must be found caused the action to hang and crash to the dashboard. This was infuriating as I lost my progress, cool, and desire to keep playing.
It was great when it worked.
When it works, DUCK: Dangerous Ultimate Cartridge Kidnapper is fantastic. The mini-games are silly and enjoyable. Moreover, they are challenging and will make you bite your lip in rage. You’ll test your reactions and button-bashing ways. Moreover, games of luck and memory will push you all the way.
The approach is delightfully basic, lending it an old-school edge. Though it won’t win awards for depth, I liked the NES-style action.
DUCK: Dangerous Ultimate Cartridge Kidnapper is rough around the edges.
Retro games have vibrant colours and ugly graphics. DUCK: Dangerous Ultimate Cartridge Kidnapper delivers this and much more. The cutscenes are amusing, and the handheld console framing gives off nostalgic vibes. Although it is dated by design, the animation is smooth, and it was great to watch.
The audio is loud, uncomfortable, and brilliantly synth. It captures every retro element, and I applaud the developer for their soundtrack and sound effects. However, it is a shame that they didn’t focus on getting the game right in the first place.
Clear controls.
Every mini-game requires a different control setup. Luckily, a clear tutorial and the option to practice are available. This helps you master each silly game.
Due to bugs and crashing, replay value and longevity are nonexistent. If they iron out the problems, this game could reach cult status. Sadly, that won’t happen!
DUCK: Dangerous Ultimate Cartridge Kidnapper should be avoided.
The odd bug can be forgiven, but game-breaking issues can not. Crashing to the dashboard is unforgivable, and this should never have made it to market. Accordingly, it should be avoided at all costs. However, if you want more information, it can be found here!
