CaveBlazers

Genre: Action-Platformer / Roguelike

Players: 1-2 Co-Op (Local)

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Review:

Caveblazers is an Action-Platformer with heavy Roguelike elements that reminded me quite a lot of Spelunky, albeit with a greater focus on combat and with RPG elements. Given how Spelunky has somehow not been ported to the Switch yet (seriously? what’s the holdup?), this should make for an excellent substitute.

To be clear, this game is significantly different than Spelunky, in that there is definitely a focus on the fast-paced combat here, as players use melee combos and 2-stick projectile attacks to take out enemies. The combat system here is surprisingly robust, actually. However, there’s more to it than that, as the game has an RPG-style equipment system to upgrade your character as you play, giving you a lot of opportunities for variety.

However, I believe the comparison is apt – this game’s pixel art caves feel similar to Spelunky’s, albeit with a wider view of the area and somewhat less cartoonish. The level design is similarly randomized, with environments full of enemies and traps trying to kill you. And the mystery of what items you’ll find next is a compelling element that will keep you coming back as you die again and again and again.

As for complaints, I feel like the game’s controller layout isn’t really ideal for switching back and forth between melee and projectile attacks, and the characters onscreen are so tiny and fast that it can sometimes be difficult to line up a hit. Also, again, this game is damn difficult, and some people are going to be put off by that.

In the end, for fans of Roguelikes and especially fans of Spelunky looking for something more action-focused, Caveblazers is fantastic, and offers a ton of action and variety in a little package. It’s not without its faults, but for the most part this is an amazing surprise on the Switch.

tl;dr – Caveblazers is an Action-Platformer with Roguelike elements that plays like a more combat-focused version of Spelunky. It’s not without its rough spots, but on the whole this is a surprisingly delightful challenging experience on the Switch.

Grade: B+

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This game has been nominated for one or more of eShopperReviews 2019 Game Awards:

Runner-Up: Most Overlooked

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