Developer: Sonzai Games
Platforms: PC, PS5 (Reviewed), Switch
Genre: Action, Adventure, Platformer
Publisher: X PLUS
Super Sami Roll is the wonderfully bright platform/action game from indie developers Sonzai games. It’s inspired; by a host of ’80s and ’90s platform games.
Super Sami Roll lands somewhere in between Marble Madness and Super Monkey Ball from a game mechanics perspective. You take the form of a ball that rolls through wonderfully rendered 3D worlds; each section has its theme from deserts to pyramids and a frozen world. I have to say the 3D worlds remind me of Super Mario 64, it’s very reminiscent to me, but that’s due to the 3D nature of the world full of bright colours and wonderful characters. The map reminds me of Super Mario 3, while the music and splash screens of the levels remind me of Sonic. The gameplay’s a mix of Super Monkey Ball and Marble Madness. You guide your character through lush areas to finish the levels and face the boss. Pixel art helps to get across this picturesque world.
Each section map area has multiple levels where you will have to use your wits and skills to navigate. Game mechanics are introduced; slowly as you progress through levels to allow for some mastery before the; introduction of the next game mechanic. Game mechanics are roll, rob, jump, and grab items. The levels consist of a mix of speed runs and accuracy where you must be precise as opposed to quick; this is layered with platform pieces too. It’s a healthy mix of platformer, fast action puzzler, and frantic speed runs. The difficulty can be; changed to cater for how much of a challenge you want.
While the game is inspired; by a host of platformers and action games, there is plenty in the game that makes it unique. With the numerous game mechanics and the use of various environments, while reminiscent of a host of classic games. There are plenty of unique elements that make it stand on its own feet. You will get annoyed at the odd camera position where your; platform is obstructed by; your camera. It does have a camera issue, like most 3D platformers. The camera angles in 3D platformers have never been perfect and; this is no exception, but this is the only minor teething issue. The soundtrack, level design and sound effects all work well; it has that chaotic sense of fun.
Super Sami Roll is a bright and fun platformer action game that draws from the past but is, updated for modern gaming. It’s chaotic fun with lots of ups and downs. The game has a learning curve that will require you to put in the time, which means it will be challenging but, the addition of varying difficulty means you can cater it; to your needs. I loved playing something; that isn’t novel in modern games while being a homage to some classic games.
The game runs at 60 FPS on the Switch. It’s currently priced; at $14.99.
Overall: 8/10
Enjoys more than the odd game, long time gamer, somewhat a technologist and everything else in between.
Also enjoys a good solid game of FIFA online. Currently PS4, XBOX 360 and STEAM.
