Say hello to the bad guy!
Imagine if a game took a different approach to the classic formula. The hero makes it to the final dungeon, is just seconds away from rescuing the princess and defeating the final boss. Then an unsuspecting NPS takes him out. Game over. Instead of this being the final battle, it is actually the first. Then the game switches and the player takes on the role of a no-name NPC to reset the world for the next hero. This is the premise of Underhero, a game that shoots the standard in the face right out of the gate.
Playing the villain isn’t new, but the ideas behind Underhero make it unique on several levels. For one the writing is clever and the characters feel familiar even if they are wholly original. The idea of resetting the world by taking the three sacred objects back to bosses that have been defeated is a truly neat idea. The “hero” can also converse with enemies, because well he is one. This gives insight into the combat. Of course there is more under the hood, but this premise makes Underhero stand out in a sea of indie games that get forgotten.
MSRP: $16.99
Platforms: Xb1 (reviewed), PS4, Switch, PC
Price I’d Pay: $16.99
The combat is akin to games like Paper Mario. While it is turn-based it does have some active elements. I can block, parry, and counter. Enemies have tells that let the player know when to use each defensive stance. A stamina meter keeps things in check and there are a host of new moves and upgrades to obtain along the way. I like that combat kept me constantly engaged in all circumstances. Being able to chat with enemies also unveils new strategies which is a neat way to play on the lore.
There is even more here as you can also bribe enemies into not fighting. Think of this as the escape mechanic in most RPGs. There is also a system that awards players by attacking to the rhythm of the music playing in the game. It adds extra damage which is a nice touch. It also doesn’t hurt that the game’s music is catchy.
I can’t overstate how much of Underhero’s charm comes from its writing and visual aesthetic. Everything about this game is just pleasant. Screenshots and videos don’t do it justice. The way characters move, the worlds they live in, and the sharp pixel art is just outstanding. The writing is also a highlight as characters manage to convey more personality even without spoken dialogue. It is a game that requires the use of the most overused word in game reviews: charming. It expounds this every step. Each area is full of new and interesting characters and our “hero” constantly finds ways to make me love him.
I simply adore the look of Underhero. When I first saw screenshots and videos I was not impressed, but after playing it I think it is one of my favorite games using this style. Each enemy has unique animations and the pixels are just chunky enough that it has its own style. I love the worlds and the dialogue between NPC characters is fantastic. This is a world I loved exploring and the music as I mentioned is simply a delight. This is one sleeper game that I would have normally not even noticed in the sea of releases pumped out weekly.
Underhero is not a difficult game, but it is a beefy one. Players could spend anywhere from 15-25 hours in it depending on how much they backtrack and collect upgrades and items. The combat continuously evolves to keep it interesting, and the charm manages to last all the way through. While there are plenty of games keeping us busy these days, Underhero is one that should be on your radar at some point. The light price tag and unending charm make it a sleeper hit and one I can whole-heartidly recommend.
Review copy of game provided by publisher.
