Gori: Cuddly Carnage, developed by Angry Demon Studio and published by Wired Productions, is a wild and frenetic action game that puts players in control of a deadly (but still kind of cute) cat riding a sentient hoverboard. This game doesn’t shy away from its absurd premise, offering a unique blend of fast-paced combat, twisted humor, and over-the-top visuals. But while it excels in many areas, there are a few aspects that hold it back from being a true genre-defining title. We checked it out on a PlayStation 5.
The narrative of Gori: Cuddly Carnage is as bizarre as it is intriguing. Set in a world where humanity has been wiped out by mutated, homicidal toys known as the Adorable Army, players take on the role of Gori, one of the last prototype synthetic pets. Alongside his snarky hoverboard F.R.A.N.K. and the sarcastic A.I. companion CH1-P, Gori embarks on a mission to stop these twisted toys from conquering the galaxy. The story doesn’t take itself too seriously, instead embracing its ridiculous premise with a story full of dark and witty humor. The banter between characters keeps the tone light, even as you’re dismembering nightmarish toy creatures – we felt it was a throwback to some of the horror comedies of the 80s and 90s in a way.
When it comes to gameplay, Gori: Cuddly Carnage has an innovative mix of hoverboard-based combat and exploration. The combat system is fast-paced and fluid, allowing players to pull off stylish combos as they grind, spin, and power slide their way through hordes of enemies. The hoverboard isn’t just a tool for combat; it’s also central to platforming and exploration. Levels are designed with verticality in mind, encouraging players to explore every corner for hidden collectibles and upgrades. And while the game’s reliance on hoverboard mechanics can feel repetitive, it helps if you experiment a bit with your options and string a few cool-looking combos together.
Visually, Gori: Cuddly Carnage is great, with its neon-drenched environments that are full of detail and personality, from twisted toy factories to twisted amusement parks. The character designs of the mutated toys are both grotesque and imaginative, adding to the game’s unique aesthetic. The visual style is complemented by a dynamic soundtrack that matches the game’s high-energy combat and chaotic environments. However, the game’s excessive gore and dark humor might not be for everyone, as it leans heavily into its mature, almost horror-like themes.
The controls are generally responsive, making the fast-paced action feel smooth and satisfying. However, there are moments where the game’s camera struggles to keep up with the frenetic movement, leading to occasional frustration during intense combat sequences. Additionally, while the game’s difficulty is generally well-balanced, there are spikes that can feel punishing, especially when combined with the camera issues.
In conclusion, Gori: Cuddly Carnage is an entertaining ‘in your face’ action game that stands out for its unique premise, engaging combat, and striking visuals. Its dark humor and mature content won’t appeal to everyone, but for those who enjoy games with a twisted sense of humor and a penchant for chaotic action, Gori: Cuddly Carnage is exactly what you’re looking for. While it has its flaws, particularly in terms of camera control, it’s a game that’s worth checking out for its sheer originality and style.
Score: 8.0/10
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