Initial release date: June 7, 2024
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X and Series S
Developers: Medallion Games, Medallion Games Limited
Genres: Platform game, Shooter game, Adventure
Engine:Â GameMaker
Publishers: Super Rare Originals, Super Rare Games
Series:Â Grapple Dogs
Although Nintendo stopped producing the Game Boy Advance in 2009, the portable’s spirit lives on owing to the efforts of independent developers. Over the last several years, titles such as Curse Crackers: For Whom the Belle Toils, Mago: The Villain’s Burger, Garbanzo Quest, and Grapple Dog have all caught the flavor of this halcyon age.
Grapple Dogs: Cosmic Canines gives retro fans another reason to celebrate. Medallion Games, a UK-based developer, has created a sequel that not only corrects some of the original’s flaws but also introduces a second playable character. Returning grappling hook-carrying Labrador Pablo and gun-toting newbie Luna get along nicely.
A Sassy New Adoptee Joins the Pack.
Several changes to Pablo’s playset increase the speed of platforming. Now, his usual move speed is closer to a sprint, and his canine punch serves as a dash. The energetic Labrador’s ground pound returns, but with a higher recoil, making it easier to knock out a sequence of adversaries. However, the amount of lateral mobility when in the air has been reduced, allowing for more precision as you progress through the stages without flooring. Fortunately, Pablo’s distinctive grappling remains intact, letting you to swing around to collect fruit or launch yourself toward a nearby edge.
Meanwhile, Luna allows you to discharge an infinite supply of ordinary bullets or special ammunition from your secondary weapon. With the ability to air-dash, Luna can seamlessly transition between platforming and twin-stick gunning across her own set of stages. Not only do these levels provide a welcome break from Pablo’s exploits, but her goth-girl attitude is matched by the good boi’s sociability, resulting in some humorous moments throughout Cosmic Canines’ caravan of media references.
A Study of Classics
The first title featured impressive stage design, and Cosmic Canines maintains that level of originality. While the series’ structure has elements of Bionic Commando, Medallion Games has clearly analyzed the platforming pantheon, integrating navigational mechanisms that keep the action feeling fresh.
As a result, you’ll come across gimmicks that send you soaring through the air, such as Donkey Kong Country’s barrel cannons, as well as terrifying aerial-based challenges in titles like Celeste and Super Meat Boy. When Pablo becomes electrified, he has the ability to rocket around flat surfaces and drive himself skyward, similar to Pepper Grinder’s air boosts. Cosmic Canines occasionally deviates slightly from the norm, with power-ups such as the leaf blade, which allows you to rapidly produce a climbable patch of greenery on vertical walls.
Help, If You Truly Need It.
Cosmic Canines tries for variety through these influences and innovations, and the presence of many stage goals expands on this ambition. A trio of hidden jewels are now the key to unlocking new stages and extending the tense timed trials. Meanwhile, treasure chests contain cosmetic embellishments for your grappling hook, encouraging you to explore each stage. Toni’s store now accepts harvested fruit as payment, allowing players to purchase items such as additional health or clothing for Pablo and Luna.
Perfectionists, like the original, will confront a formidable struggle, as Cosmic Canines’ trinkets frequently lead you into peril. Make no mistake: the game may grow extremely difficult, necessitating mastery of each pup’s moveset. However, like the original, accessibility options may be discovered in the main menu, granting invulnerability and a limitless amount of jumps.
In summary
Sure, the intricate looks and sophistication of modern titles may be appealing. However, there is something equally fascinating about taking on traditional game tasks. Grapple Dogs does an excellent job of presenting a variety of these timeless problems. From swinging around risks with sharpened precision to firing through obstacles with a new playable character, each stage in Cosmic Canines feels like an extended stunt routine.
Review Overview
Gameplay: 85%
Controls: 88%
Aesthetics: 90%
Content: 82%
Accessibility: 79%
Value: 84%
Overall: 84%
VERY GOOD!
Summary: Grapple Dogs: Cosmic Canines is a lovely blend of platforming fun and quirky appeal. The gameplay is entertaining, with creative grapple techniques that bring a new twist to typical platforming. The controls are precise and responsive, providing a seamless experience as players navigate colorful environments full with innovative obstacles. Aesthetically, the game stands out with vivid images and a whimsical art style that reflects the spirit of adventure. The content is well-crafted, with a fair balance of exploration and difficulties, while certain parts might benefit from more detail. The accessibility choices are good, but there is potential for improvement. Overall, Grapple Dogs is an excellent experience that will captivate players of all ages.