Berzerk: Recharged review (PS5)

Still keen to revitalize their classics, Atari and SneakyBox have launched Berzerk: Recharged, a twin-stick shooter that breathes new life into the 1980 arcade gem. This latest addition to the Recharged series keeps things simple yet charming, challenging players to navigate an endless maze teeming with relentless robots. Surviving is your sole objective, with each run culminating in a score that beckons you to improve, embodying the essence of classic arcade gaming. We tried out the PlayStation 5 version.

The main attraction in Berzerk: Recharged, Arcade Mode, throws you into a relentless pursuit of high scores as you navigate through a series of rooms, facing off against an array of robots. The challenge intensifies with each passing level, forcing you to devise strategies to outsmart the increasingly formidable enemies and sometimes change them up as you go. Evil Otto, a grinning orb of doom, adds an extra layer of urgency, becoming an unbeatable adversary as you strive to clear rooms swiftly – a reminder of how badly arcade games used to want to eat your quarters.

Berzerk: Recharged introduces a unique twist with Challenge Mode, which offers 20 hand-crafted mazes that present distinct gameplay challenges – giving a modern sense of gameplay design to the classic arcade formula. Power-ups, including spread-shots, railguns, and player modifiers, further diversify the experience. The game’s local co-op feature, while not revolutionary, adds a layer of enjoyment for those who prefer a collaborative gaming experience.

Megan McDuffee’s synth-infused soundtrack complements the dystopian atmosphere, capturing the essence of an intense space station showdown and echoing the vibes of ’80s arcades. The art style, adorned with neon accents, pays homage to the era, creating a visually appealing retro aesthetic. However, the relative visual simplicity, although a nod to the arcade origins, may feel somewhat static and lacks variety – and Berzerk: Recharged ‘pops’ a little less than some of the other Recharged games.

In terms of gameplay mechanics, Berzerk: Recharged retains the straightforward approach of its predecessor. The twin-stick controls make navigation and shooting accessible, ensuring a quick learning curve. The game offers a delicate balance between risk and reward as well, with power-ups and modifiers enhancing the experience. At the same time, the gameplay’s simplicity might be a double-edged sword, with the arcade mode lacking the depth found in some other titles of the Recharged series.

While the overall experience is enjoyable, a few rough edges persist. Some players may find the game’s difficulty spikes a bit harsh, especially for newcomers. The fixed visual palette, while faithful to the original, may also come across as monotonous after extended play.

In conclusion, Berzerk: Recharged stands as a commendable new entry in the Recharged series, preserving the nostalgic charm of the arcade classic while introducing modern elements. Its engaging gameplay, amplified by McDuffee’s stellar soundtrack, offers a fun distraction, though some may find the simplistic visuals and occasional rough edges as minor drawbacks. For those seeking a dose of ’80s arcade nostalgia with a contemporary twist, Berzerk: Recharged beckons you to dive into its neon-lit, robot-filled maze.

Score: 7.6/10