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Wild Bastards

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Wild Bastards
Item: Wild Bastards
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2024

GenresIndie, Action, Science Fiction and Futuristic, Shooter, Strategy, Single Player, First Person Perspective

AvailableSep 12, 2024

PlatformPlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, PC

DeveloperBlue Manchu

Overview

The spiritual successor to the epic strategy-shooter Void Bastards, Wild Bastards is a hybrid FPS/strategy game with heart-pounding tactical combat, detailed management systems, and a roguelike campaign. Saddle up and lead the most notorious outlaws in the galaxy.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Wild Bastards impresses critics with its unique Wild West-sci-fi fusion and engaging character-driven narrative, particularly highlighting its humor and vibrant personalities. However, some reviewers criticize the story as "thin" and repetitive, suggesting that while the character dynamics shine, pacing and focus may falter. Overall, it’s seen as a fun, imaginative ride, especially for fans of character-rich tales.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

64%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

36%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The story of Wild Bastards has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, who appreciate its unique blend of genres and character-driven narrative. Many reviewers, such as GameSpew and PlayStation Universe, highlight the engaging premise of a Wild West-inspired journey infused with sci-fi elements, where a gang of outlaws seeks to resurrect their fallen comrades. Critics like TheSixthAxis and Twinfinite emphasize the central characters, Casino and Spider Rosa, and their quest aboard a sentient spaceship, which adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. The humor and vibrant personalities of the characters, as noted by GameSpot, further enrich the storytelling experience, making it both engaging and entertaining. However, not all feedback is favorable, as some critics point out weaknesses in the storyline. PCGamesN describes the narrative as "thin," suggesting that while the humor and character kits are enjoyable, the quests can feel stretched and repetitive over a full playthrough. Additionally, Player 2 mentions the internal conflicts among the outlaws, which, while adding depth, may lead to a narrative that feels cluttered or less focused. The Games Machine also notes that while the story unfolds as players progress, it does not overshadow the gameplay, implying that the narrative may lack the depth some players expect. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that Wild Bastards presents a compelling story that creatively merges Wild West and sci-fi themes, with a strong focus on character dynamics and humor. While some reviewers, like CGMagazine and Checkpoint Gaming, appreciate the depth and engaging interactions within the narrative, others express concerns about its pacing and coherence. Despite these criticisms, the overarching sentiment is that the game offers an enjoyable and entertaining experience, particularly for those who appreciate character-driven stories set in imaginative worlds.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Wild Bastards impresses with its innovative blend of roguelike, strategic board game, and FPS mechanics, creating a dynamic gameplay experience that keeps players hooked. Critics praise its character diversity and strategic depth, noting the engaging exploration of procedurally generated planets. However, some highlight issues like rudimentary shooting mechanics and potential repetitiveness in levels. Overall, the game is celebrated as a standout title, offering an addictive mix of genres that, despite minor flaws, captivates players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The gameplay of Wild Bastards has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, who praise its innovative blend of genres and engaging mechanics. Reviewers like GameSpew and PlayStation Universe highlight the game's successful integration of roguelike elements with strategic board game mechanics and first-person shooter (FPS) action. This fusion creates a dynamic experience where players can explore procedurally generated planets, engage in intense showdowns, and manage a team of unique characters, each with their own abilities. TheSixthAxis commends the game's innovative approach, describing it as an "innovative mix" that keeps players engaged through a variety of gameplay styles. Critics also appreciate the depth of strategy involved, with CGMagazine noting the complexity of character relationships and decision-making that enhances the gameplay experience. However, while the gameplay is generally well-received, some critics have pointed out certain drawbacks. PCGamesN mentions rudimentary shooting mechanics and limited variety in level-ups and items, suggesting that while the core gameplay loop is satisfying, it may lack depth in certain areas. Twinfinite also notes that while quick FPS deathmatch levels add variety, they can feel repetitive over time. Additionally, some reviewers, like GameSkinny, express concerns about the balance between strategic decision-making and the arcade-style action, indicating a potential mismatch for players who prefer one style over the other. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Wild Bastards offers a compelling and enjoyable gameplay experience that successfully combines various genres. The majority of reviewers, such as GameGrin and GameSpot, emphasize the game's addictive nature and strategic depth, making it a standout title in its genre. Despite some criticisms regarding mechanics and potential repetitiveness, the positive feedback far outweighs the negatives, affirming that Wild Bastards is a well-crafted game that provides a unique and engaging experience for players.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Wild Bastards impresses with its charming art style and distinctive comic book visuals, receiving praise for its vibrant cel-shading and quirky characters. However, critics point out flaws in 3D environments, technical issues on Switch, and a lack of variety in settings and enemies. Overall, the visuals are a standout feature, yet improvements are needed to enhance the experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

71%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

29%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The graphics and visual design of Wild Bastards have garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting the game's charming and distinctive art style. GameSpew praises the "charming art style with quirky characters," which adds to the overall appeal of the game. Similarly, TheSixthAxis notes the "distinctive pop-art comic book visuals" that create a compelling aesthetic reminiscent of classic sci-fi and Western themes. Critics like CGMagazine and GameGrin commend the cel-shaded art style, with bright colors and a fusion of 2D character sprites in 3D environments contributing to a vibrant visual experience. The game's environments, described as visually compelling by TheSixthAxis, further enhance the charm, with critics acknowledging the unique settings like space canteens and abandoned hamlets. However, there are notable criticisms regarding the game's visual execution, particularly concerning the 3D environments. PlayStation Universe points out that while the 2D art is attractive, the 3D worlds for showdowns are "geometrically basic and lacking in detail." ZTGD also mentions technical issues on the Nintendo Switch platform, leading to crashes that detract from the visual experience. Additionally, some critics, such as PCGamesN and The Games Machine, express a desire for more variety in the environments, suggesting that while the visuals are appealing, they may become repetitive over time. GameSkinny also notes a lack of variety in enemy types, which can impact the overall visual engagement during gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Wild Bastards presents a visually striking experience with its unique art style and charming character designs, yet it is marred by some technical limitations and a lack of environmental diversity. Critics like GameSpot and Player 2 emphasize how the visual style aids in gameplay mechanics, enhancing tactical recognition during battles. Despite the criticisms, the game's comic-book aesthetic and vibrant cel-shading have left a positive impression, indicating that while there are areas for improvement, the visual design is a significant highlight of the game.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Critics rave about Wild Bastards's sound design, praising its stellar voice acting that boosts the game's quirky atmosphere. With entertaining dialogue and comedic banter, the voice work shines in tandem with the pop-art visuals. However, the music lacks memorability and could become repetitive. Overall, the audio enhances the whimsical experience, making it a hit among players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

38%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of Wild Bastards is predominantly positive, with multiple critics praising the game's voice acting and its contribution to the overall atmosphere. PlayStation Universe highlights the "entertaining voice acting performances" that add levity to the game, while TheSixthAxis describes the "pitch-perfect over-the-top voice work" that aligns well with the game's vibrant pop-art visuals. CGMagazine emphasizes how the voice acting and soundtrack enhance the Spaghetti Western vibe, noting the "distinctive vocal flair" that enriches character interactions. The lighthearted dialogue and banter between characters, mentioned by GameGrin, adds depth and humor, making the experience enjoyable. GameSpot also points out the comedic elements of the enemies' dialogue, particularly those with British accents, which further enhances the gameplay experience. Overall, the consensus among these critics is that the sound design effectively complements the game's whimsical tone. While the reviews are overwhelmingly positive, there are some areas where critics could see room for improvement. For instance, while the voice acting is praised, there is little mention of the game's music beyond its ability to complement gameplay, as noted by The Games Machine. This suggests that while the voice performances stand out, the musical score may not be as memorable or impactful. Additionally, there is a lack of critique regarding the potential repetitiveness of the dialogue or music, which could detract from the experience over time. Critics like Player 2 do highlight the effective evocation of the Old West atmosphere, but the absence of more critical perspectives on the sound design indicates a somewhat one-dimensional view of the audio experience. In conclusion, the critics largely agree that the sound design and music of Wild Bastards play a significant role in crafting an engaging and humorous atmosphere. The voice acting is consistently highlighted as a standout feature, with critics such as Twinfinite and CGMagazine emphasizing its contribution to the game's charm. Although there are minimal critiques regarding the music's memorability and the potential for repetitiveness, the overall sentiment remains highly favorable. The combination of entertaining dialogue, comedic interactions, and a fitting soundtrack creates a cohesive and enjoyable experience that resonates well with players, aligning with the lighthearted and whimsical nature of the game.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

The voice acting in Wild Bastards shines, with critics praising its engaging performances and diverse character representations that enhance gameplay. While many laud the humor and charm, some worry that the quirky accents may become tiresome over time. Overall, it’s a standout feature that adds depth and atmosphere, despite concerns about its lasting appeal.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting 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 voice acting.

The voice acting in Wild Bastards has garnered a largely positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging and charismatic performances. TheSixthAxis appreciates the distinctiveness of each character, noting that their unique playstyles and abilities contribute to a rich gameplay experience. Similarly, CGMagazine emphasizes the variety of character types and cultures represented in the voice acting, which adds a distinctive vocal flair to the game. GameSpot also praises the vibrant and engaging performances of both the player’s posse and enemies, particularly noting the humorous British-accented lines that enhance the game’s charm. Player 2 reinforces this sentiment by stating that the voice acting is a strong point, effectively solidifying character personalities and relationships within the posse. Twinfinite echoes this positivity, describing the voice acting as great and a significant contributor to the game's atmosphere and immersion. However, not all feedback is entirely favorable. PCGamesN expresses a critical viewpoint, suggesting that while the chatty cast with funny accents initially charms, it can become grating over time. This sentiment indicates that the abundance of quirky voices may lead to fatigue for some players, potentially detracting from the overall experience. The concern about repetitiveness or overexposure to the comedic elements of the voice acting suggests that while it is engaging, it may not maintain its appeal throughout extended gameplay sessions. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Wild Bastards is a standout feature that enhances the game’s charm and character depth. While there are concerns about the potential for the humor and accents to wear thin over time, the majority of reviewers, including GameSpot and Player 2, affirm that the diverse and vibrant performances contribute positively to the gameplay experience. The unique vocal styles and engaging delivery help to create a memorable atmosphere, making the voice acting a defining aspect of the game, despite some reservations about its longevity.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

technical performance

Description unavailable

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Wild Bastards shows promise in replay value with diverse characters and gameplay options, praised by critics like GameSpot and CGMagazine. Features like customization and difficulty settings enhance engagement. However, criticisms about repetitiveness, technical issues on the Switch, and lack of enemy variety from outlets like GameSpew and Twinfinite raise red flags. Overall, while it has solid replay potential, persistent flaws could dampen long-term enjoyment for many players.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

29%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

71%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of Wild Bastards reveal several positive aspects that enhance its longevity and engagement. Many reviewers noted the game’s diverse character options and abilities, which allow players to explore different playstyles. For instance, GameSpot highlighted the variety of characters with unique abilities and various gameplay systems, suggesting that these elements provide ample replay value. CGMagazine echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the character customization and strategic choices that keep playthroughs engaging. Additionally, GameSpew and PlayStation Universe mentioned the inclusion of multiple difficulty settings and post-story challenges, which can extend the game’s lifespan and encourage players to revisit the experience. However, several critics pointed out notable drawbacks that may hinder the game’s replayability. GameSpew and PlayStation Universe both mentioned the potential for repetitiveness, with GameSpew specifically noting that some elements feel underdeveloped. ZTGD raised concerns about technical issues on the Nintendo Switch, such as frequent crashes, which could significantly impede the enjoyment of replaying the game. Furthermore, GameSkinny and Twinfinite highlighted a lack of variety in enemy types and unbalanced difficulty, suggesting that these factors could limit long-term engagement and exploration of the game’s content. TheSixthAxis also mentioned that while the challenge mode provides opportunities for modification, it lacks the intrigue of unlocking new characters after completing the main campaign. Overall, the consensus among critics presents a mixed view of the replay value in Wild Bastards. While many reviewers, such as GameSpot and GameGrin, praised the game’s roguelite mechanics and character experimentation as key factors for replayability, others like TheSixthAxis and Twinfinite expressed concerns about the repetitiveness of gameplay mechanics and the pacing of the experience. The game appears to offer a solid foundation for replay value, particularly through its character diversity and challenges, but the underlying issues of repetitiveness and technical problems may deter some players from fully engaging with it over the long term. As such, while Wild Bastards has the potential to be enjoyable for players seeking varied experiences, its shortcomings could limit its appeal to a broader audience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

44%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

51%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

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

The overall sentiment towards Wild Bastards is predominantly positive, with many critics praising its unique art style, engaging gameplay, and quirky characters. For instance, CGMagazine highlights the game as "incredibly engaging and fun," emphasizing its vibrant world and deep gameplay mechanics. Similarly, GameGrin refers to it as a "fantastic roguelite" with great visuals and an enjoyable cast, while Checkpoint Gaming appreciates its "thoroughly fun and explosive FPS and roguelike fusion." TheSixthAxis also notes the game's "eccentric mix of gameplay mechanics" and engaging characters, suggesting that these elements contribute to a thrilling experience. Overall, the game's charm and creativity resonate strongly with players across various platforms. However, despite the positive aspects, several critics point out significant shortcomings that detract from the overall experience. GameSpew mentions underdeveloped elements and repetitive gameplay, while PlayStation Universe notes shortcomings in gunplay and visual presentation. GameSkinny echoes this sentiment, highlighting a lack of meaningful endgame content and combat variety. Additionally, Player 2 raises concerns about pacing issues, which could affect its appeal. Some critics, like ZTGD, caution against technical issues on the Nintendo Switch platform, advising players to opt for other systems to avoid stability problems. These critiques suggest that while the game has a solid foundation, it struggles with execution in certain areas. The overall consensus among critics is that Wild Bastards is an enjoyable title with a unique blend of genres, though it falls short of being a standout experience due to various technical and gameplay-related issues. While many reviewers, such as GameSpot, laud its intricate gameplay systems and strategic depth, they also acknowledge flaws like a thin storyline and pacing problems. Push Square captures this sentiment well by stating that the game is good but "falls short of expectations." Ultimately, Wild Bastards appears to be a game that will appeal to fans of the genre, but it may not fully satisfy those looking for a polished and comprehensive experience.

TL;DR

Wild Bastards is praised for its vibrant art, engaging gameplay, and quirky characters, but faces criticism for repetitive mechanics, underdeveloped elements, and technical issues on certain platforms. While it offers a fun roguelite experience, it struggles with execution, leaving some players wanting more polish and depth. Overall, it's a solid title for genre fans, but may not meet the expectations of those seeking a standout gaming experience.

MONSTER

Reviews

45 reviews found

GameSpot

Sep 12, 2024

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

Wild Bastards is praised for its intricate gameplay systems, diverse cast of characters, tight gunplay, striking visual design, and deep strategic elements. Despite a slightly anticlimactic final act, the game is described as 'unholstered brilliance' that rewards careful planning and skilled improvisation.

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TheSixthAxis

PlayStation 5

Sep 12, 2024

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

Wild Bastards offers an eccentric mix of gameplay mechanics that work well together. The engaging characters, innovative gameplay, and distinctive visuals make it a thrilling experience, despite some minor technical issues and limited replay value.

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GameGrin

Oct 15, 2024

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

Wild Bastards is a fantastic roguelite with great visuals, engaging gameplay, and a fun cast of characters, earning its place as a successor to Void Bastard.

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CGMagazine

Sep 11, 2024

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

Wild Bastards is described as incredibly engaging and fun, with a world full of life and character that invites players to keep playing. The game's deep gameplay mechanics, engaging storyline, unique visuals, and distinctive voice acting contribute to a highly enjoyable experience.

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The Games Machine

Sep 12, 2024

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

Wild Bastards is a superb FPS roguelite that, while not innovating significantly, offers enjoyable gameplay and a solid experience for fans of the genre.

Twinfinite

Sep 11, 2024

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

Wild Bastards is a sequel that attempts to modify gameplay mechanics from its predecessor but falls short in some aspects. Despite this, the engaging quick FPS sections, great voice acting, and impressive art style make it worth considering for fans of bite-sized shootouts.

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Checkpoint Gaming

Sep 11, 2024

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

Wild Bastards is a thoroughly fun and explosive FPS and roguelike fusion game with a weird and creatively designed cast. Despite some issues with tutorialization and game length, it offers a satisfying gaming experience.

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Player 2

Oct 31, 2024

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

Wild Bastards offers a unique blend of genres with engaging gameplay and strong presentation, but suffers from pacing issues that may affect its overall appeal.

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PlayStation Universe

PlayStation 5

Sep 13, 2024

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

Wild Bastards feels fresh with its unique blend of settings and gameplay mechanics, despite some shortcomings in gunplay and visual presentation.

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GameSkinny

Sep 18, 2024

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

Wild Bastards is a well-designed game that blends different genres effectively, offering engaging gameplay and a unique narrative experience. However, it falls short in providing meaningful endgame content and variety in combat encounters.

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