Kaboomania is an authentic retro-inspired experience that captures couch competitive action, chiptune audio, and simplicity at its best. Although this will turn off gamers who want a polished, lore-rich, and detailed game, it will appeal to older people who adore Bomberman!
Fancy Factory has developed and published this maze-bomber style game. It is a single-player and up to 4-player title that is hectic, testing, and a little bit frustrating. However, at its core, it is rewarding, casual, and great fun to play. If you’ve ever played and enjoyed anything from this genre, this will be right up your street!
Kaboomania tells no story.
I wasn’t surprised that Kaboomania is lacking in lore or a core story. After all, what reason would there be to blow up a maze and kill everything in sight? Accordingly, it is the tricky and occasionally frustrating action that sits at the forefront.
I was impressed by the level design, the annoying creatures, and the array of power-ups on offer. However, it is the 1000 + levels that took me by surprise. This was almost too intimidating and overwhelming. No matter how much I played or how hard I worked, the levels were endless. This won’t be an appealing experience for completionists, but if you want to get a hit of nostalgia and never-ending action, this will be the game for you.
Simple ideas.
Kaboomania asks you to destroy every creature in sight. Each of the levels has a maze-like approach and obstacles to destroy. Yet, it is the placement of your explosives that is important. If you block yourself in, you’ll die. If you fail to kill the monsters, you’ll die. Pick up the wrong power-up, yep, you’ll die.
Death and failure are core components of the experience. Additionally, planning is a key building block to success. You’ll need a bit of trial and error as you create new pathways and block your foes. This game of cat and mouse takes unwanted turns at regular intervals. Consequently, you must be prepared to change tactics if you want to be victorious and make it to the exit. This is where a bit of luck rather than judgement comes to fruition. Destroying obstacles makes way for an array of power-ups. These can be the difference between success and failure.
Annoyance.
If you remember passwords and a lack of instant saving, you won’t mind the most annoying feature of Kaboomania. However, if you are new to passwords, codes, and the ability to lose everything, this will drive you insane! Sadly, if you quit or die and you haven’t recorded the passcode, you must do everything again. This is maddening and something that will cause extreme pain and frustration.
Kaboomania is a classic retro experience.
Designed originally for the Amiga 1200, Kaboomania is authentically dated. Moreover, the use of couch competitive action shows its heritage. The developer has used a low-resolution art style and a rich but limited colour palette. The pixelated visuals, basic mazes, and refined and cute sprites take you back to a bygone era. I love it, but I appreciate that the lack of polish will be off-putting.
The chaotic gameplay is reinforced by the loud and often uncomfortable sound effects. This adds to the madness while enhancing the retro feel. The music is high-energy, dated, and great to listen to. I wouldn’t say it was overpowering or memorable, but it works well as you run like a rat through your maze.
Tight controls.
Although the developer has focused on its retro roots, the control system is tight and great to handle. The control layout is refined and easy to understand. Moreover, a helpful key highlights the use of every power-up. This makes for a gentle learning curve and a game that is easy to play.
Kaboomania offers great value for money and plenty of replay value. Additionally, the inclusion of couch competitive action was fantastic. Although I appreciate that 1000 levels are overwhelming, it’s better to have more content than less. Subsequently, this offers loads of longevity and plenty of reasons to return.
Kaboomania is great if you love retro gaming.
Kaboomania is going to be a little divisive. It doesn’t shy away from being a retro game, and this may annoy lovers of modern-only titles. However, if you adore gaming from a bygone era, this will tickle your fancy. It is unashamedly dated! Simple visuals, basic mechanics, and colours that’ll make your eyes water. Accordingly, I love it, and I recommend buying it here! Can you place your bombs and get to the exit? Study the map, plan your approach, and don’t let the retro monsters get you.
