October 7th 2024.
The world of virtual reality has always been a fascinating one, with its ability to transport players to alternate universes in a way that traditional gaming just can't match. And while many developers have opted for first-person experiences, some of the most immersive VR games are actually in third-person.
One such game is Max Mustard, a platformer that puts players in control of the adorable, Chucky-sized Max. With her trusty jet boots, she runs, jumps, and battles enemies while you follow closely behind, taking in the stunning and detailed worlds around you. From brief log flume-style rides to slow-paced moments that avoid motion sickness, Max Mustard is a joy to play.
The game draws inspiration from the popular PlayStation VR title Astro Bot: Rescue Mission, with its colorful visuals, bouncy protagonist, and similar level mechanics. Originally released on Meta Quest, it has now made its way to PlayStation VR2, much to the delight of fans who were told there would be no more Astro Bot games. While the new Astro Bot is great, Max Mustard feels like a worthy spiritual sequel to Rescue Mission.
Right from the start, Max Mustard makes a strong impression. After watching Max take down a giant brain-in-a-jar with her robotic tentacles, you're transported to a tabletop world filled with miniature levels that look like a modern version of Super Mario World. Each of the four worlds in the game leads to a boss battle, and as you progress, you'll come across various challenges that require more than just platforming skills. With two guns at your disposal, you can shoot toy darts or create a suction cone to activate windmills and hoover up coins and enemies.
Speaking of coins, they can be used in each world's shop to upgrade Max with various enhancements. While not necessary to progress, they add a bit of spice and make the more difficult levels more manageable. And while the game may have taken inspiration from Astro Bot and Mario, it still manages to surprise with its inventive level designs and colorful landscapes that float in the air.
While there may not be a lot of enemy variety, the game's charming art style and attention to detail more than make up for it. Plus, there are plenty of different levels to keep things interesting, from cloud trampolines and Frogger-inspired river levels to shooting galleries and coin frenzies. The game also has refined aiming mechanics, making shooting sections a breeze.
The only downside to Max Mustard is that it can't help but be compared to its inspirations, and it falls a little short in comparison. However, that doesn't take away from the fact that it's a polished and enjoyable VR experience, with solid controls and beautiful scenery. And the fact that it's available on PlayStation VR2 is definitely a bonus.
In conclusion, Max Mustard may borrow heavily from other games, but it still manages to stand on its own as a fun and charming VR platformer. With its polished mechanics, imaginative levels, and replay value, it's a game that's sure to please fans of the genre. So if you're looking for a few hours of virtual reality escapism, Max Mustard is definitely worth checking out.
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