Cookie Cutter review (PS5)

Sounding a lot cuter than it actually is, Cookie Cutter by Subcult Joint and Rogue Games delivers a refreshing twist to the classic Metroidvania formula. The game introduces Cherry, a fierce android on a mission fueled by love and vengeance, set against the backdrop of a dystopian universe ruled by the egomaniacal INFONET. We tested it on a PlayStation 5.

The narrative, while somewhat standard on the surface of things, leans heavily on Cherry’s character. When you meet her, she’s dragging her broken android body around in a relentless pursuit of her creator, who’s been kidnapped. Immediately, the game sets the tone for a violent and gory adventure – a bit like a 2D Ghostrunner in a way. Cherry’s strong and self-aware personality becomes a defining element of the game, making her one of the more memorable new protagonists we’ve seen in a while.

One undeniable aspect of Cookie Cutter is its unabashed celebration of violence, presented here through hand-drawn visuals that are very striking. The game’s commitment to an over-the-top presentation, rich in color and detail, serves as a refreshing departure from the more serious tone of recent metroidvanias. Cherry’s ability to augment herself and the presence of her robotic companion, Regina, add layers to both the story and gameplay.

The game’s sprawling world is detailed and diverse, featuring unique enemies in each biome. Combat, which is very much at the core of Cookie Cutter, offers a satisfying blend of combos and special moves. The variety of enemies, from overgrown insects to mini-bosses, demands strategic thinking and adaptability. Boss fights, which are challenging yet quite fair, provide a few memorable encounters as well. As players progress, Cookie Cutter consistently introduces new elements, preventing staleness. Whether it’s unlocking a guitar for smashing heads or acquiring new abilities for exploration, the game maintains a sense of freshness.

The handcrafted and cartoon-like world of Cookie Cutter is a visual delight, despite occasional camera issues. Cherry’s responsiveness and fluid animations make for a satisfying gameplay experience, and the game’s attitude is evident in Cherry’s personality, the game’s visuals, the combat options you have and the generally strong platforming segments.

But while Cookie Cutter excels in many areas, some issues need addressing. The reliance on genre staples and the presence of numerous battle areas, while initially fun, can become repetitive and drag on a little too long. The story itself, although serviceable, eventually falls into familiar territory as well, lacking the freshness found in other aspects of the game.

In terms of difficulty, Cookie Cutter might be considered a touch easy by experienced metroidvania players. However, the game’s unique visual style, expressive violence, and fresh approach to the metroidvania genre still make it a compelling and memorable experience for fans seeking a departure from the norm. While not without its minor flaws, the game’s expressive art, vibrant combat, and commitment to its unique audiovisual vision make it an essential title for fans of the genre seeking a fun, albeit unconventional, experience.

Score: 7.7/10