Firestoke’s latest, Goons: Legends & Mayhem, breathes fresh life into the world of arcade hockey on the PlayStation 5, delivering a blend of sports action and beat ’em up excitement – a bit akin to the arcade classic Fighting Soccer or, more recently, Mario Strikers. Developed by RageCure Games, this quirky title transports players to the kingdom of Zambonia, where it’s all about hockey and an epic adventure awaits.
One of the game’s standout features is its easy to pick up controls and dynamic gameplay. From precise passes to powerful shots, every action feels responsive and satisfying. The incorporation of special moves and evasion tactics adds a touch of supercharged fun to the matches, ensuring each match has a touch of unpredictability. Having said that, while the gameplay mechanics are solid for an arcade game, some players who are used to the NHL games may find the lack of advanced stick control and deking options limiting, leading to repetitive scoring patterns.
Visually, Goons features a charming cartoon aesthetic and vibrant, colorful environments. From fish markets to fantasy realms, each arena has its own personality and unique hazards that keep matches engaging and makes the game feel different from your typical hockey title. The attention to detail, such as animated crowds of penguin supporters, further immerses players in the world of Zambonia. However, while the graphics are colorful and appealing, the absence of leaderboards or stat tracking may disappoint those seeking competitive challenges.
On the audio front, Goons has a catchy soundtrack and satisfying sound effects. The music sets the tone for each match, while the sound of every puck strike and goal scored adds to the excitement on the ice. While the game lacks dialogue and feels much simpler in nature than recent NHL simulations, the developer’s decision to focus on arcade gameplay and ambiance still manages to draw you in for a quick match.
In terms of gameplay modes, Goons offers a variety of options to suit different playstyles. Whether teaming up with friends for chaotic multiplayer matches or embarking on a solo journey to save the Hockeyverse, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and multiplayer should provide plenty of lasting appeal when the campaign is over. However, some players may find that the absence of tournament play and limited matchmaking options in the online portion detracts from the overall experience.
Overall, Goons: Legends & Mayhem is a charming addition to the arcade hockey genre, offering accessible gameplay, colorful visuals, and a decent amount of content to explore. While it may not satisfy hardcore hockey enthusiasts craving a realistic simulation, its lighthearted approach and engaging mechanics make it a worthy addition to any PlayStation 5 library – especially when you’re looking for something fun and accessible on a game night.
Score: 7.0/10
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