This collection doesn’t suck ass.
Ah, the Angry Video Game Nerd. That character has entertained me for years. Getting close to 20 years at this point. James Rolfe created this character that went back and played and reviewed older video games in profanity-filled, comedy-driven videos that have spawned multiple reoccurring characters, a full-on movie, and now two video games. Naturally, these games are filled with AVGN staples as well as homages to games of yesteryears. The crazy thing is, these are some pretty great games.
This collection comes with The Angry Video Game Nerd Adventures I and II. Both games feature 8-16 bit graphics and feel just like the platfomers that came out during the years of the NES and SNES. Players take on the role of The Nerd as he goes through multiple levels with different themes blasting away enemies with his NES Zapper. Along the way, he can collect sub-weapons and other powerups.
Platforms: PC, XB, PS, Switch
MSRP: $14.99
Price I’d pay: $14.99
What sets this game apart from others in the genre is the tone and the references. One minute, I was running around a horror-themed castle with floating medusa heads, the next, I’m running around a very not safe for work level with some choice body parts all around. This is obviously not a game for kids, much the like internet show, as even the names of the levels are profanity laced.
The platforming is precise and deliberate but feels just tight enough. The game is still difficult, but it is one of those difficulties that feels rewarding. It’s never too hard, but just hard enough to keep up the challenge. The powerups are all from the Nerd videos and the levels are parodies of real-life games that the Nerd has reviewed at some point. As a fan of James’ videos this was a fun adventure just seeing the levels and how they played out. At the end of each level, there is a boss fight. These can be tricky, but luckily the sub-items can help out in a pinch.
This Deluxe bundle comes with both games. While the first game is great, I could tell the 2nd game is where they both learned and improved on. It even has a Super Mario Bros. 3 overworld. There’s a lot here, and with the difficulty just right, there’s a good amount of challenging content to play.
Any fan of AVGN should pick this one up. There is a ton of fan service, and the entire time I had a smile on my face. There were even times I was kind of shocked to see what was happening on screen. Platform fans will have a ball here too. It is a nice homage to games of the past and one that I think everyone should give a shot. It’s a great deal.
Review copy of game provided by publisher.
