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Kao the Kangaroo

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Kao the Kangaroo
Item: Kao the Kangaroo
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2022

GenresFantasy, Adventure, Action, Third Person Perspective, Platformer, Single Player

AvailableMay 27, 2022

PlatformXbox Series X, PC, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4

DeveloperTate Multimedia

Overview

Action-adventure game released in 2000 by Tate Interactive. During development it was known as Denis the Kangaroo.

Elsewhere

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Kao the Kangaroo offers a light-hearted, accessible story that charms younger audiences with its whimsical elements and straightforward plot. However, critics largely slam it for lacking originality, depth, and engaging dialogue, deeming it a generic backdrop that fails to resonate with more seasoned gamers. Ultimately, it's entertaining for kids but leaves many players craving a more compelling narrative.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

79%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

19%

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

The story of Kao the Kangaroo has garnered some positive remarks from critics, particularly regarding its accessibility and appeal to a younger audience. Reviewers like NintendoWorldReport and Everyeye.it noted that the narrative is light-hearted and engaging, with vibrant character designs and humorous interactions that resonate well with children. The inclusion of magical elements, such as Kao's boxing gloves that grant him powers, adds a whimsical touch to the adventure. Additionally, some critics, like PlaySense and Impulsegamer, appreciated the straightforward nature of the plot, which serves as a solid backdrop for the gameplay, making it easy for new players to follow along. However, the overall sentiment surrounding the story is predominantly negative, with many critics highlighting its lack of originality and depth. Digital Trends, CD-Action, and Checkpoint Gaming criticized the narrative as generic and poorly executed, describing it as an unengaging quest that fails to connect with players. The dialogue has been described as cringeworthy and filled with outdated references, as noted by TheXboxHub and Dexerto. Critics like Game Informer and GRYOnline.pl pointed out that the story feels rushed and uninspired, lacking meaningful character development and urgency, which diminishes the emotional stakes of Kao's journey. In summary, while Kao the Kangaroo features a charming and accessible story that may appeal to younger audiences, the consensus among critics is that it falls short in terms of depth and originality. Many reviewers, including Gamezebo and Xbox Tavern, echoed the sentiment that the narrative serves primarily as a vehicle for gameplay rather than a compelling tale. As a result, the game may entertain younger players but does not offer the engaging storytelling experience that many seasoned gamers seek. Overall, the story's simplistic nature and execution have led to a largely lukewarm reception among critics.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Kao the Kangaroo impresses with nostalgic platforming mechanics and fun combat, earning praise for its intuitive controls and exploration elements. However, it faces heavy criticism for lack of depth, repetitive gameplay, and outdated design, leading to a consensus that it offers a standard experience rather than an innovative one. While enjoyable for fans of classic 3D platformers, it ultimately falls short for those seeking excitement and challenge.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

33%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

61%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Kao the Kangaroo has garnered a mix of positive feedback from various critics, particularly in its platforming mechanics and nostalgic appeal. Many reviewers, such as TheXboxHub and Video Chums, highlighted the enjoyable jumping mechanics and the well-designed levels that offer a good flow and opportunities for exploration. Critics like God is a Geek and Cubed3 praised the combat system, noting that Kao's boxing gloves add a fun and satisfying element to enemy encounters. The game is described as accessible, with intuitive controls that make it easy for players to pick up and enjoy, as mentioned by SECTOR.sk and Digital Trends. Furthermore, some critics appreciated the inclusion of elemental puzzles and collectibles, which add layers to the gameplay experience, as noted by Malditos Nerds and NintendoWorldReport. However, the gameplay also faces significant criticism for its lack of depth and innovation. Many reviewers, including GRYOnline.pl and Dexerto, pointed out that the mechanics feel simplistic and repetitive, with poorly designed levels that fail to provide variety. Critics like Game Informer and Press Start Australia echoed these sentiments, describing the gameplay as banal and derivative, lacking the challenge and excitement expected from a platformer. The combat, while initially enjoyable, is often described as monotonous, with several critics, such as NME and TrueGaming, noting that it lacks depth and variety, leading to a sense of tedium over time. Additionally, some reviewers mentioned that the game feels outdated, with design choices that do not meet modern expectations for the genre. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Kao the Kangaroo offers a nostalgic and accessible platforming experience, it ultimately falls short in terms of innovation and challenge. Many reviewers appreciate the solid foundation of the gameplay, as seen in the opinions of GamingTrend and PlaySense, but they also agree that the game does not push the boundaries of the genre. Critics like IGN Adria and SpazioGames noted that although the game retains classic elements, it lacks originality and depth, making it a standard experience rather than a standout title. As a result, while the game may appeal to fans of traditional 3D platformers, it may not satisfy those looking for a more engaging and challenging gameplay experience.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Kao the Kangaroo boasts a vibrant, nostalgic aesthetic that many critics love, reminiscent of classic platformers. However, it suffers from outdated graphics, technical flaws, and a lack of polish, especially on the Nintendo Switch. While its colorful environments and character designs charm some, others find them unoriginal and underwhelming. Overall, it appeals to fans of retro visuals but falls short for those seeking a modern, refined experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

43%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

52%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Kao the Kangaroo have received a mix of praise from various critics, particularly for their vibrant and colorful aesthetic. Many reviewers, such as SpazioGames and Destructoid, highlight the game's cheerful visual style, which is reminiscent of classic platformers. Critics like GamingTrend and Nintendo Life appreciate the lush and engaging environments, noting that the art style captures the spirit of modern 3D platformers while invoking nostalgia. The character designs have also been well-received, with PlaySense and PC Invasion commending the creativity and charm in the character and enemy designs, contributing to an overall appealing visual experience. However, despite the positive aspects, several critics have pointed out significant shortcomings in the graphics and visual design. Reviewers such as SECTOR.sk and GRYOnline.pl describe the graphics as primitive and outdated, with low-resolution textures and a lack of detail that detracts from the overall experience. The Nintendo Switch version, in particular, has been criticized by GamersRD and Gaming Age for performance issues, reduced draw distances, and noticeable graphical bugs. Additionally, Universo Nintendo and Hey Poor Player note that while the visual design is attractive, it suffers from a lack of polish, with unfinished animations and abrupt transitions that undermine the overall presentation. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Kao the Kangaroo presents a vibrant and nostalgic visual style, but it is marred by technical shortcomings and a lack of modern polish. While many reviewers, including Vandal and PC Invasion, find the colorful environments and charming character designs appealing, others like Game Informer and IGN Italia argue that the graphics do not stand out in terms of originality or creativity. The game seems to resonate well with fans of classic platformers, but the mixed reviews indicate that it may not fully meet the expectations of players seeking a more refined visual experience.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

TL;DR: Kao the Kangaroo features a lively soundtrack that some critics praise for its upbeat tone and nostalgic charm. However, significant audio issues—like missing tracks, poor mixing, and subpar voice acting—plague the game, leading to widespread disappointment. The overall consensus is that despite its potential, technical flaws overshadow the audio experience, leaving many players unsatisfied.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

62%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

34%

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

The sound design and music of Kao the Kangaroo have garnered a mixed response from critics, with some praising its upbeat and engaging elements. Reviewers like Dexerto and Push Square highlighted the soundtrack as a standout feature, noting that it sets the tone nicely for the game. Similarly, Impulsegamer and Vandal appreciated the lively music and sound effects, which contribute to a jovial atmosphere and enhance the overall experience. Critics such as Jeuxvideo.com consistently described the music as bucolic, fitting well with the game's aesthetic, and even nostalgic elements were noted by GRYOnline.pl, appealing to older fans of the genre. However, the negatives surrounding the sound design and music are prevalent and significantly impact the overall reception. Many critics pointed out issues such as missing music during gameplay, poor sound mixing, and glitches that disrupt the audio experience. For instance, Eurogamer Italy and PlaySense echoed concerns about interruptions and missing tracks, which detract from immersion. The voice acting received considerable criticism as well, with several reviewers, including Digital Trends and Player 2, describing it as flat or grating, which undermines the game's charm. Critics like SpazioGames and Switch Player also noted that the music often cuts out or fails to load properly, further compounding the audio issues. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Kao the Kangaroo features a potentially enjoyable soundtrack and sound effects, significant technical flaws undermine the audio experience. The recurring mention of audio glitches, missing sound effects, and inconsistent voice acting creates a sense of disappointment, as seen in the reviews from Game Informer and Xbox Achievements. Despite some positive remarks regarding the music's fit with the game's atmosphere, the overwhelming sentiment indicates that these strengths are overshadowed by the persistent audio issues, leading to a less than satisfactory experience for many players.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

"Kao the Kangaroo" features mixed voice acting; while some praise its charm, the majority of critics slam it as cringeworthy and emotionless, undermining the game's narrative. Highlights include a few commendable performances, but the overall sentiment emphasizes poor execution and a disconnect with character depth, indicating a pressing need for improvement in future titles.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

51%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in "Kao the Kangaroo" has garnered a few positive remarks among a sea of criticisms. Some reviewers, like Cultured Vultures, praised the voice acting for the protagonist, Kao, stating that it adds charm to the game. Additionally, a couple of critics, such as IGN Italia and Impulsegamer, found the voice acting to be mostly good, contributing positively to the overall experience. There are also mentions of the voice acting being amusing, with some characters providing a lighthearted feel that aligns with the game's playful nature, as noted by Movies Games and Tech and Nintendo Life. However, the overwhelming sentiment towards the voice acting is negative. Many critics, including Dexerto and Noisy Pixel, described the voice acting as poor, cringeworthy, and stiffly delivered, leading to awkward interactions that detract from immersion. Player 2 went so far as to label the Australian voice acting as grating, while PlaySense emphasized the emotionless execution that undermines character depth. A recurring theme is the lack of emotional delivery, with reviewers like Digital Trends and TheXboxHub noting that the voice actors often sound unsure or detached, which significantly impacts the game's narrative experience. Critics also pointed out that the writing accompanying the voice acting feels outdated and unrelatable, further diminishing the overall appeal. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in "Kao the Kangaroo" is inconsistent and often lacks the quality needed to enhance the gaming experience. While there are a few commendable performances, the majority of reviews highlight issues such as poor execution, lack of emotional depth, and a disconnect between the voice acting and character personalities. Critics like Vandal stand out as exceptions, praising the execution, but they are few and far between in a landscape dominated by complaints about the voice work. The general sentiment suggests that the voice acting is a significant area of concern that could benefit from improvement in future iterations of the game.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Kao the Kangaroo showcases variable technical performance across platforms: smooth on PS5 and Xbox Series X but marred by significant bugs and glitches everywhere, especially on Nintendo Switch. Critics agree that while some gameplay aspects shine, pervasive technical issues overshadow the experience, indicating the game needed more refinement before launch.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

48%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

43%

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

The technical performance of Kao the Kangaroo varies significantly across different gaming platforms, with each platform showcasing some positive aspects. On the PlayStation 5, several critics, including PlayStation Universe and NME, noted that the game runs smoothly at 60 frames per second, suggesting a generally polished gameplay experience. Additionally, Noisy Pixel highlighted that the performance on PS5 was mostly smooth, with only a few glitches in the hub worlds. Similarly, on the Xbox Series X, Impulsegamer praised the game for its smooth performance and good draw distance, while Everyeye.it mentioned satisfactory overall technical performance despite some graphical limitations. On PC, CD-Action reported a stable technical performance with minimal bugs, and Ragequit.gr emphasized solid controls, indicating a positive experience for players on this platform. However, the negatives surrounding Kao the Kangaroo are quite pronounced across all platforms. On PS5, critics like Dexerto and Eurogamer Italy pointed out significant technical issues, including numerous bugs, visual glitches, and a major save bug that could erase progress, indicating a lack of thorough testing. Similarly, on Xbox Series X, Game Informer and Shacknews noted the presence of technical glitches and stability issues that detracted from the overall experience. The PC version is not without its faults either; TheGamer highlighted numerous technical issues, including sound problems and hit detection glitches, which significantly impacted the gameplay experience. On the Nintendo Switch, the situation is even more dire, with multiple critics, including GamingTrend and Switch Player, reporting frequent technical hiccups, frame rate drops, and a broken save system that severely frustrates gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Kao the Kangaroo suffers from a lack of polish and significant technical issues across all platforms, overshadowing the positive aspects of gameplay. While some reviews, such as those from PlayStation Universe and Impulsegamer, note smooth performance, the overwhelming sentiment is that the game is plagued by bugs and glitches that disrupt the experience, particularly on PS5 and Nintendo Switch. Critics like Press Start Australia and XboxEra echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the game needed more refinement before its launch. The mixed reviews suggest that while there are enjoyable elements to the game, the technical shortcomings are a major hurdle that developers need to address to improve player satisfaction and overall gameplay experience.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

"Kao the Kangaroo" offers some replay value with collectibles and hidden secrets appealing to completionists, but critics largely agree its repetitive gameplay, short 5-10 hour duration, and technical issues severely limit its attractiveness for extended play. While nostalgic elements may draw some players back, the overall sentiment suggests it's unlikely to resonate broadly, leaving many feeling there's little incentive to revisit.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

72%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

25%

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

In analyzing the opinions regarding the replay value of "Kao the Kangaroo," several critics highlighted positive aspects that may appeal to certain players, particularly completionists. Many reviewers noted the presence of collectibles, hidden secrets, and bonus levels that can encourage exploration and replayability. Critics such as Impulsegamer and NintendoWorldReport emphasized that the game offers various incentives for players to revisit levels, with collectibles and character skins enhancing the overall experience. Additionally, some reviews, like those from Xbox Tavern and Digital Trends, acknowledged that while the game can be completed relatively quickly (around 5-10 hours), the nostalgic platforming elements and exploration aspects could still provide enjoyable replay opportunities for fans of the genre. However, the consensus among critics also pointed to significant negatives that undermine the game's overall replay value. Many reviewers, including Game Informer and GRYOnline.pl, criticized the game for its repetitive gameplay and lack of engaging content, which diminishes the incentive to replay. The short length of the game, often cited as lasting only 5-10 hours, combined with a low difficulty level, was seen as a deterrent for players seeking a more challenging experience. Technical issues, as mentioned by Hey Poor Player and Shacknews, further contributed to the low replay value, as players may be hesitant to revisit a game plagued by bugs and save stability problems. Overall, the critics' consensus indicates that while "Kao the Kangaroo" offers some replay value through collectibles and exploration, the game's repetitive nature, short duration, and technical shortcomings significantly limit its appeal for extended play. Critics like Vandal and Pure Nintendo echoed the sentiment that once players have experienced the game, they may not feel compelled to return. Although there are elements that could entice completionists, such as those highlighted by Nintenderos and Video Chums, the overarching sentiment leans toward a lack of substantial replay incentives, making it a title that may not resonate with a broader audience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

13%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

85%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

In the reviews for "Kao the Kangaroo," several critics highlight the game's nostalgic appeal and enjoyable gameplay. Many reviewers, such as Cultured Vultures and Nintendo Life, appreciate the charming visuals and solid level design, noting that it successfully captures the essence of classic platformers while modernizing its graphics. Critics like Everyeye.it and Impulsegamer commend the game for being a fun and colorful experience suitable for younger audiences and families. The gameplay mechanics are often described as satisfying, with some reviewers, including PC Invasion and GameGrin, pointing out that the game offers a cozy experience for fans of the genre, even if it doesn't challenge players significantly. However, the game is marred by a plethora of technical issues and a lack of innovation, which many critics emphasize. Gamezebo and Hey Poor Player express disappointment over the game's price relative to its quality, suggesting that it falls short compared to more polished platformers like Mario. Numerous reviewers, including GRYOnline.pl and Dexerto, mention bugs, glitches, and repetitive gameplay that detract from the overall experience. Critics like Movies Games and Tech and GamingAge echo these sentiments, stating that while the game can be enjoyable, it ultimately fails to stand out due to its generic mechanics and lack of polish. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Kao the Kangaroo" is a mixed bag that offers nostalgic charm and enjoyable gameplay but is hindered by significant technical flaws and a lack of originality. While some reviewers, such as COGconnected and Vandal, find merit in its fun and nostalgic elements, others like Game Informer and Xbox Tavern describe it as aggressively average and forgettable. The game's appeal seems to be primarily for fans of the original series and those seeking light entertainment, but it does not receive a strong recommendation for players looking for a top-tier platforming experience.

TL;DR

"Kao the Kangaroo" delivers nostalgic charm and fun gameplay reminiscent of classic platformers, praised for its visuals and level design. However, it's bogged down by technical issues, bugs, and a lack of innovation, leading critics to deem it average and forgettable. While enjoyable for fans of the series and younger audiences, it falls short of competing with polished titles like Mario, making it less recommendable for serious gamers.

MONSTER

Reviews

113 reviews found

COGconnected

Xbox Series X

May 31, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kao The Kangaroo is an excellent 3D platformer that captures nostalgic elements while providing enjoyable gameplay, despite its simplicity and occasional technical issues.

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Cubed3

Nintendo Switch

Sep 26, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kao the Kangaroo is a great 3D platformer with solid controls and strong visual design. Despite some technical issues on the Switch, it is recommended for players of such titles.

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Multiplayer.it

May 27, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kao the Kangaroo is a solid and colorful platformer that successfully evokes nostalgia for classic games, despite some limitations and technical issues.

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Everyeye.it

Xbox Series X

May 27, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kao the Kangaroo is a fun and enjoyable platformer that, while not groundbreaking, provides a colorful world and intuitive combat. It is recommended for younger audiences and those seeking light entertainment.

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IGN Italia

Xbox Series X

May 28, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kao the Kangaroo is a charming reboot that pays homage to classic 3D platformers, offering an entertaining experience for players of all ages despite its lower difficulty level.

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XboxEra

Xbox Series X

May 27, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Despite its flaws, Kao the Kangaroo is considered one of the better modern 3D platformers and worth the price for fans of the genre.

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Ragequit.gr

May 27, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kao The Kangaroo is an enjoyable platformer with high quality, but its low difficulty and short length prevent it from reaching the heights of top-tier titles.

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SECTOR.sk

Jun 6, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kao The Kangaroo is seen as a nostalgic return to classic platforming, providing fun for younger players and fans of the genre, despite its shortcomings in graphics and depth.

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GameGrin

Nintendo Switch

Aug 22, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kao the Kangaroo is a nostalgic and fun platformer that doesn't challenge players much but offers a cozy experience for fans of the genre.

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Cultured Vultures

May 30, 2022

AI-generated summary • May contain inaccuracies • See full review for precise details

Kao the Kangaroo is a fun and charming game that successfully combines elements from the original games with new twists. While it lacks challenge, it has enough personality and charm to warrant a revival for the franchise.

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