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Berserk Boy

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Berserk Boy
Item: Berserk Boy
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresAdventure, Indie, Action, Platformer, Side View Perspective, Single Player

AvailableMar 6, 2024

PlatformNintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 5

DeveloperBerserkBoy Games

Overview

Berserk Boy is a vibrant, retro-inspired 2D action platformer that lets you… GO BERSERK! Change into different forms and use the power of Lightning, Fire, Earth, Air, and Ice as you race through stylish stages in a heroic battle to save the planet from the evil Dr. Genos!

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Berserk Boy delivers a nostalgic, retro-style action-adventure with solid gameplay and charming characters, but its shallow, cliché-driven story feels like an afterthought — functional, not fantastic.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

35%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

65%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The reviews of Berserk Boy highlight several positive aspects of its narrative, particularly its engaging structure and nostalgic appeal. Critics like Nintendo Life praised the game’s “well-handled” storytelling, noting the use of intermittent stills and quick dialogue exchanges that draw on diverse influences to create a solid action-adventure experience. TheSixthAxis emphasized the “creative and endearing” characters, which add personality to the familiar hero’s journey, while GameGrin appreciated the detailed backstory involving orbs, resistance, and a scientist’s betrayal. Gamers Heroes and COGconnected highlighted the game’s focus on style and skill mastery, with COGconnected specifically calling it a “delightfully cheesy retro game premise” with entertaining characters. These critiques suggest the narrative, while not groundbreaking, effectively supports the game’s action-oriented gameplay and appeals to fans of classic 90s-style adventures. However, several critics pointed out significant flaws in the story’s depth and originality. Digitally Downloaded criticized the “light touch on the narrative” and the “forgettable” plot, while NintendoWorldReport noted that the story beats “are not as captivating as the gameplay.” ZTGD and Hey Poor Player acknowledged the clichéd premise, with Hey Poor Player describing a plot where “humanity is threatened by Shades” and ZTGD calling the narrative “slim but gets the job done.” Gaming Nexus and Digitally Downloaded also criticized the story for being overly lighthearted or lacking emotional weight, with Gaming Nexus stating it “takes itself too seriously.” These critiques collectively suggest that while the game’s narrative is functional, it struggles to offer a compelling or unique story, relying heavily on tropes and underdeveloped characters. Despite these criticisms, the overall consensus among reviewers is that Berserk Boy prioritizes gameplay over narrative, with the story serving as a competent but unremarkable backdrop. While Nintendo Life and TheSixthAxis praised its structural strengths and character design, others like Digitally Downloaded and NintendoWorldReport found it lacking in originality and emotional resonance. The game’s reliance on familiar sci-fi and action-adventure tropes, such as a mad scientist antagonist and a hero’s transformation, was both a point of accessibility and a limitation. Ultimately, the narrative is seen as a secondary element, with many critics agreeing that its simplicity and retro charm make it suitable for fans of the genre, even if it fails to innovate or deeply engage. The mixed reception reflects a balance between nostalgic appeal and the expectation for more nuanced storytelling.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Berserk Boy thrills with fast-paced, skill-driven platforming, combat, and inventive form-swapping, evoking Mega Man and Sonic while adding unique Metroidvania flair. But its linear design, underwhelming bosses, and repetitive elements drag it down, with some powers feeling unbalanced. A fun, nostalgic action-platformer, but not without flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

86%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

14%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Berserk Boy is widely praised for its dynamic and engaging design, with critics highlighting its fast-paced, skill-based mechanics and creative variety. Multiple reviewers, including Digitally Downloaded, Gfinity, and TheSixthAxis, emphasize the game’s emphasis on speed and agility, comparing it to classics like Mega Man and Sonic while noting its unique form-swapping system that allows players to adapt abilities to specific challenges. Hey Poor Player and NintendoWorldReport commend the mix of platforming, combat, and puzzle-solving, with the latter pointing to "fluidity" and "unique character forms with special attacks" as standout features. The ability to switch between superhero forms on the fly, as noted by Hobby Consolas and COGconnected, adds layers of strategy, while Gaming Nexus and Digital Chumps laud the "addicting combat system" and "diverse abilities" that encourage experimentation. The game’s arcadey feel, tight controls, and focus on mastery—such as GameGrin’s mention of "challenging platforming" and GAMINGbible’s emphasis on cooperative trials—further reinforce its appeal as a mechanically rich experience. However, some critics point to notable drawbacks that temper the overall enthusiasm. Worth Playing criticizes the game’s linear structure and "lack of challenge in boss fights," suggesting that the difficulty scaling feels uneven. Noisy Pixel mentions "navigation issues" and an "easy difficulty level," while Pure Nintendo notes that "repetition can set in after initial thrill." Additionally, COGconnected and Digital Chumps observe that certain powers require "fine-tuning," hinting at potential balancing concerns. These critiques often center on the game’s reliance on familiar mechanics without fully innovating, and the occasional frustration with environmental design or boss design that fails to maintain tension. While not universally negative, these points indicate that the gameplay, though enjoyable, has room for refinement in terms of depth and challenge. Despite these criticisms, the majority of reviewers agree that Berserk Boy delivers a compelling gameplay experience, with its strengths in mechanics and variety outweighing its flaws. Digitally Downloaded and GamingTrend (both on Switch) highlight the "puzzle-like levels" and "fun and frenzied action," while COGconnected and Digital Chumps (on PC) appreciate the "Metroidvania elements" and "replayability." The game’s blend of platforming, combat, and transformation mechanics creates a cohesive, energetic core that resonates across platforms. While some note issues with repetition or difficulty, the consensus leans heavily toward admiration for its arcade-style responsiveness, creative power systems, and nostalgic influences. As Gaming Nexus puts it, the "delightful gameplay experience" and "rapid power switching" make it a standout title, even if it doesn’t break entirely new ground. Overall, the gameplay is seen as a strong, if occasionally imperfect, foundation for a fast-paced, skill-driven adventure.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Berserk Boy dazzles with retro pixel art and vibrant visuals, but critics note repetitive sprites, underwhelming characters, and technical flaws amid its nostalgic charm.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The majority of critics praised Berserk Boy’s graphics and visual design, highlighting its retro-inspired aesthetic and vibrant presentation. Many reviewers, including Gfinity and Hey Poor Player, lauded the "gorgeous pixel visuals" reminiscent of the Game Boy Advance and SNES eras, noting their nostalgic appeal and anime-influenced character designs. NintendoWorldReport and ZTGD emphasized the game’s "vibrant color palette" and "distinct world designs," with dynamic effects like shadow trails and lively biomes enhancing immersion. Pure Nintendo and Gamers Heroes commended the "top-class spritework" and "bright colors," while TheSixthAxis appreciated the "armoured hero aesthetic" and unique blend of classic platformer influences. These critiques collectively underscore a strong focus on visual style, with many celebrating its ability to evoke the charm of 16-bit gaming while maintaining a modern, engaging feel. However, some critics pointed to specific shortcomings. Digitally Downloaded noted that the protagonist’s design, while detailed, "lacks an interesting or memorable identity," and the level design was "straightforward and lacks inspiration." COGconnected mentioned "some fatigue due to default lighting Orb usage," while Worth Playing criticized the "limited resolution options" as a potential disappointment. Movies Games and Tech observed that "reused sprites" could create a sense of repetitiveness, and Noisy Pixel suggested room for improvement in future entries by diversifying character suits. These critiques, though less frequent, highlight areas where the game’s visual execution fell short of expectations, particularly in terms of originality and technical flexibility. Despite these minor criticisms, the overall consensus among reviewers was overwhelmingly positive, with the majority agreeing that Berserk Boy’s graphics and visual design were "very good." The retro pixel art, vibrant color schemes, and fluid animations were frequently cited as strengths, with GamingTrend and Gfinity emphasizing their "flashy and impactful" nature. While a few critics raised concerns about character identity or level creativity, the praise for its nostalgic charm, energetic presentation, and technical polish—such as Nintendo Life’s "bold and well-animated sprites" and Gaming Nexus’s "colorful world with great character designs"—dominated the discourse. This balance of retro homage and modern execution suggests that the game’s visual design successfully resonated with fans of classic platformers while offering a fresh, engaging experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Berserk Boy dazzles with retro pixel art and vibrant visuals, but critics note repetitive sprites, underwhelming characters, and technical flaws amid its nostalgic charm.

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics hail Berserk Boy's sound design as a standout, with Tee Lopes' retro-modern chiptune masterpiece—comparing to Sonic Mania—elevating gameplay with nostalgic, energetic melodies that drive adventure, though minor critiques like underused voice acting and slight track repetition linger.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The majority of critics praised the sound design and music of Berserk Boy as a standout element that significantly elevates the game’s experience. Digitally Downloaded highlighted the “excellent soundtrack” that enhances the overall atmosphere, while GamingTrend noted its “energetic” quality, which aligns perfectly with the game’s frenetic action and visual style. Hey Poor Player and Hobby Consolas specifically commended the work of Tee Lopes, the composer behind Sonic Mania and TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge, for crafting “fitting melodies” and “signature sounds” that feel both nostalgic and fresh. Movies Games and Tech described the soundtrack as “immersive and memorable,” emphasizing its role in driving the adventure, and Nintendo Life praised its “catchy themes” that “drive the adventure.” Even on PC, Digital Chumps lauded the “incredible soundtrack” filled with “electro-inspired chiptunes” that evoke the “SNES-era of action platformers,” while GameGrin and Gamers Heroes noted the “upbeat, catchy music” and “engaging, memorable remixes” that complement gameplay without feeling repetitive. The music’s ability to blend retro influences with modern energy was a recurring theme, creating a cohesive and enjoyable audio landscape. While the overwhelming consensus was positive, some critics pointed to minor shortcomings. Worth Playing mentioned that “voice acting is decent but not fully utilized in all scenes,” suggesting that the audio elements beyond the music had mixed execution. GameGrin noted that the soundtrack, though upbeat, “doesn’t feel repetitive,” which could imply a lack of variation in certain sections, though this was framed more as a neutral observation than a major flaw. Additionally, while most reviews celebrated the sound design’s role in building tension and atmosphere, only a few explicitly mentioned it, with GAMINGbible noting its effectiveness in “creating an atmosphere of horror and tension.” These critiques were relatively sparse and often framed as minor quibbles, with the music and sound design still being considered a major strength overall. The overall consensus among critics is that Berserk Boy’s sound design and music are a major highlight, with Tee Lopes’ contributions serving as a unifying thread across platforms. Reviews from both Nintendo Switch and PC users consistently praised the soundtrack’s energy, nostalgia, and technical quality, with many drawing direct comparisons to Sonic Mania and other classic 16-bit titles. While there were occasional mentions of underutilized voice acting or slight repetition in tracks, these were overshadowed by the widespread acclaim for the music’s ability to enhance gameplay, create memorable moments, and evoke a sense of adventure. The combination of chiptune-inspired melodies, dynamic sound effects, and atmospheric design was seen as a key factor in the game’s appeal, with critics like Nintendo World Report and ZTGD calling it a “treat for the ears” and a “highlight” of the experience. This strong critical reception underscores the soundtrack’s role as a central pillar of Berserk Boy’s success.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Berserk Boy nails stability and polish on Switch, but reused assets and glitches hurt its sheen. PC runs smoothly yet struggles with visual/UI quirks and sound issues. Core mechanics shine, but Switch’s portability and refinement outshine PC’s technical rough edges.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

11%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

89%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Berserk Boy receives generally positive feedback across both the Nintendo Switch and PC platforms, with several critics highlighting its stability and polish. On the Switch, Digitally Downloaded praised the game’s "excellent precision in movement and gameplay," while Hey Poor Player noted the absence of technical issues, suggesting strong performance and stability. Nintendo Life acknowledged a rare glitch but emphasized its infrequency, and Worth Playing commended the game’s smooth performance on the Steam Deck, citing a locked 60fps and cloud-saving features. For PC, COGconnected and GameGrin both reported minor visual or UI issues but no major technical problems, while Gaming Nexus noted that the game runs without significant hiccups despite some design missteps. These reviews collectively underscore the game’s solid foundation, particularly on the Switch, where its portability and optimization are frequently praised. However, technical shortcomings are evident, particularly on the Nintendo Switch. Movies Games and Tech criticized reused sprites and text box glitches, which could disrupt immersion, while NintendoWorldReport highlighted bugs in lab upgrades and a frustrating token-collection mechanic that felt misaligned with the game’s progression. Nintendo Life’s mention of a player getting stuck in a wall further underscores occasional instability. On PC, COGconnected pointed to "annoying sound effects" and "unintuitive progression requirements," while Worth Playing noted limited resolution options as a drawback. These issues, though not pervasive, suggest that the game’s technical execution is less consistent on PC, where visual and UI elements occasionally clash with the core experience. Overall, critics agree that Berserk Boy is technically sound but not without flaws. The Nintendo Switch version benefits from a polished, stable experience, though minor glitches and design choices like reused assets detract from its polish. PC ports face more varied technical challenges, including visual inconsistencies and UI quirks, but these are generally overshadowed by the game’s smooth performance. While no platform is flawless, the consensus leans toward the Switch being the more refined experience, with PC offering solid performance despite some technical rough edges. The game’s core mechanics and responsiveness are widely praised, indicating that its technical issues are more about polish than fundamental instability.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Berserk Boy’s replay value is a double-edged sword: rich in collectibles, upgrades, and Metroidvania backtracking that reward exploration, but marred by repetitive bosses, unclear goals, and steep upgrade costs. While co-op and performance ratings entice completionists, its short campaign and tedious true ending may frustrate casual players. A solid core loop for the dedicated, but design quirks could limit its appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

42%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

58%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The reviewers generally highlight several positive aspects of Berserk Boy’s replay value, emphasizing its structured incentives for revisiting stages and exploring deeper content. Critics like Hey Poor Player and TheSixthAxis praise the game’s multiple save points, hidden Resistance members, medals, and optional Time Trial stages, which encourage players to revisit levels for progression. Nintendo Life notes the Metroidvania-style backtracking and side missions that reward exploration, while TheSixthAxis also points to the variety of biomes, stages, and transformations that add layers to the experience. Additionally, COGconnected, GameGrin, and GamingTrend (on PC) commend the collectibles, upgrades, and performance ratings that motivate players to refine their skills or chase high scores. Pure Nintendo and GAMINGbible further highlight accessibility options and alternate playstyles (solo vs. cooperative), which cater to different preferences and enhance longevity. These elements collectively create a compelling case for replayability, particularly for completionists or fans of action-platformers seeking challenge and customization. However, several critics voice concerns about aspects that could diminish the replay experience. GamingTrend (both Switch and PC) criticizes the lack of clarity in exploration goals and the tedious backtracking required for the true ending, which might frustrate players. NintendoWorldReport points to repetitive boss fights and unvaried enemy encounters as drawbacks, while God is a Geek highlights the steep cost of upgrades, making progression feel punishing. Worth Playing and Digital Chumps note that the game’s short base campaign and limited optional objectives could leave some feeling unsatisfied, despite the inclusion of EX-levels and hidden secrets. Gaming Nexus mentions that the completionist-focused mechanics, such as performance ratings and life-count options, might not appeal to all, and Noisy Pixel acknowledges that while the score system drives repeats, the difficulty curve could deter casual players. These critiques suggest that while the game offers replay incentives, its design choices may not universally resonate. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Berserk Boy provides a solid foundation for replayability through its collectibles, upgrades, and varied playstyles, but it faces challenges in balancing accessibility with depth. Reviewers like Hey Poor Player and TheSixthAxis emphasize the game’s rewarding systems for exploration and customization, while Nintendo Life and GAMINGbible underscore its appeal to fans of action-platformers and cooperative play. Conversely, GamingTrend and NintendoWorldReport caution that the game’s reliance on backtracking and repetitive mechanics might alienate some. Despite these mixed perspectives, the majority agree that the game’s core loop—combining progression, secrets, and challenges—makes it enticing for dedicated players, though its flaws could limit broader appeal. The replay value ultimately hinges on individual tolerance for its design quirks and willingness to engage with its completionist elements.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

79%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

19%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

Berserk Boy receives widespread praise for its nostalgic appeal, energetic presentation, and engaging gameplay. Many critics highlight its retro-inspired visuals and vibrant soundtrack, with TheSixthAxis noting it as a "perfect mix of nostalgia and innovation," and ZTGD commending its "standout visual design and soundtrack." Digital Chumps and Pure Nintendo both praise the game's fluid controls and impressive presentation, calling it a "fun and challenging platformer" and a "very good" experience, respectively. The game's fast-paced action and skill-based platforming are also frequently lauded, with Gamers Heroes stating that its "platforming action surpasses its inspiration," and GamingTrend emphasizing its "unique gameplay mechanics" and "impactful visual design." Fans of classic 2D platformers, particularly those who enjoy titles like Mega Man or Sonic the Hedgehog, find the game to be a compelling and entertaining choice. Despite these positive aspects, several critics point out notable flaws that detract from the overall experience. GamingTrend and COGconnected both mention issues with exploration and collectibles, suggesting that these elements may not be as refined or satisfying as they could be. TheSixthAxis and Noisy Pixel note that the game has "navigation issues" and "easy difficulty levels," which can reduce the challenge and depth for more experienced players. Additionally, some reviewers, like COGconnected, point out that the game's "frustrating sections" and "mandatory collectathon" could be off-putting. While the game is enjoyable, these critiques suggest that it lacks the polish or complexity to fully stand out as a groundbreaking title, and some may find the short length and repetitive mechanics to be a drawback. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Berserk Boy is a solid, enjoyable 2D platformer that pays homage to classic games while offering a fun and accessible experience. While it may not break new ground in terms of originality, it is consistently recommended for fans of the genre, with many calling it a "must-play" or "not to be missed." The game's blend of retro charm and modern mechanics, along with its strong audiovisual presentation, makes it a satisfying choice for those who appreciate fast-paced platforming. As Digital Chumps and TheSixthAxis both suggest, it strikes a balance between nostalgia and innovation, and despite its shortcomings, it remains a worthwhile and entertaining adventure.

TL;DR

Berserk Boy is a nostalgic 2D platformer bursting with retro visuals, a vibrant soundtrack, and slick controls, offering fast-paced, skill-based action that outshines its inspirations. But clunky exploration, repetitive collectibles, and easy difficulty undercut its depth, frustrating some. A fun, accessible pick for classic fans (think Mega Man/Sonic), it balances charm with flaws—worth it for nostalgia lovers, but not a genre breakthrough.

MONSTER

Reviews

59 reviews found

100

Hey Poor Player

Nintendo Switch

Mar 5, 2024