I’d rather have…
A video game based on a personality who plays video games? Yeah, the world is weird sometimes, but you will be hard-pressed to find someone who has not heard of the Angry Video Game Nerd when it comes to people who follow the industry. While all the rage today may be negativity towards gaming, James Rolfe was the pioneer. It is also worth noting that his character is entirely an act and is supposed to be over-the-top with his criticisms. When the first AVGN game launched on Steam back in 2013 it was considered pretty good even with its steep difficulty. Now console owners get a chance to check out both games, complete with new pieces to create a solid package.
MSRP: $14.99
Platforms: Switch (reviewed), PC
Price I’d Pay: $14.99
The first thing to note is that this package is not just that. Instead both games have been tweaked to feel more modern and accessible. The first game has been revisited to remove a lot of the death blocks that simply killed the player and instead been replaced with spikes that cause damage. There are also now difficulty settings to make the game more accessible to all players. The second game is making its console debut here, making this package a no-brainer. Both games harken back to the NES days and for fans of AVGN the amount of Easter Eggs and nods to the show are impressive.
The first game has been given more treatment and now feels amazing. The colors have been touched up and it looks sharp on the Switch. The tweaks to the game play have made it less challenging, but more accessible in a lot of ways. The sequel used to reign superior, but now I feel like the first game hits all the marks with these improvements.
The sequel has a different approach, using a map that players progress as opposed to individual levels. While both titles are challenging, the short levels are perfect for that “one more life” mentality. I died a lot still in these games, but I always wanted to jump back in. That is a sign of solid design.
It cannot be understated that a lot of the appeal of these games comes from the history of the show. So many of the skits and characters make an appearance and seeing them in game form is a treat. For those that watch the shows there is nary a screen where there isn’t something I was pointing at with a smile.
This collection is a must-own for fans of AVGN. Without the reverence for the show these are simply two solid side scrolling games that will definitely entertain but will not resonate with players as much. I found myself in pure heaven since I have watched every episode of AVGN as well as the movie. I loved the references, and it is clear that the developers really took the time to make them more than just cameos. It is great to also see these games finally making their way to consoles. Now just get me my Xbox One version and all will be right in the world. Even if it is published by LJN.
Review copy of game provided by publisher.
