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80s gaming has got a lot to answer for. Yes, it created some of the best and most original pieces, but it’s also responsible for some insane projects. Consequently, when a developer is inspired by this era, you never know what will happen. Flippin Kaktus is one such game that is hard-hitting and bloody bizarre.
Developed by Rage++ and published by No Gravity Games, this is a tactical platform adventure title. It has an aggressive story, a wild west theme, and plenty of violence. What’s more, it caters to calm minds and angry individuals. Subsequently, there are endless approaches to each stage, and this makes it unique and addictive.
Flippin Kaktus is unforgiving.
Now, I’ve played some tough titles. Only recently I’ve reviewed TEN and I thought that was hard enough. However, my punishment continues as I grind my way through Flippin Kaktus. This unforgiving title will chew you up, spit you out, and stomp on your carcass. Therefore, understandably, my screams of rage were all par for the course! Though there are plenty of tools and techniques to overcome every problem, it’s still brutal. Accordingly, you’ll rage quit more than normal while vowing never to return.
The story behind Flippin Kaktus is one of drugs, anger, and revenge. When the Calaveras drugs cartel raids the hero’s home, he goes berserk. He must save his foster family from this evil organisation no matter the cost. At heart, he is a mellow cactus who wants a quiet life. Yet, there is a rage inside of him that is uncontrollable. When he breaks, you better watch out! If you are in his way, you’ll be annihilated. It is this power that he must now harness if he is to save the day.
Softly, softly, or all-out warfare.
Flippin Kaktus is a game of many choices. The hero can use the environment and the interactive objects to his advantage. If he does this, he’ll avoid their attention like a green spikey ninja. You can wear a sombrero, hide behind bushes, push crates, dive into barrels, wear armour, and more as you hide in the shadows. However, this option is risky. Not only does it require perfection, but you must also test your reactions. Moreover, if you are spotted, you’ll have to avoid bullets, leap cattle prods, and run for your life. On top of this, there are falling bridges, spiked traps, flamethrowers, and more.
If the softly, softly approach isn’t your style, then worry not. Rage and revenge go hand in hand, and this is a fantastic thing. Simply allow yourself to be kicked by a donkey, and the party begins. The hero will see red and can destroy anything in his way. However, the rage power is short-lived, so you have to be careful. What’s more, it also leaves you with one bar of health. Therefore, you must be mindful of your approach, otherwise, you will die.
Whichever option you choose, they are both viable paths. Moreover, experimenting with different styles was half the fun. Furthermore, the difficulty of the gameplay ensures that you will die. Accordingly, you lose little by trying out different styles. I thought this concept was fantastic, and though it was a little unorthodox, it works perfectly with the maddening action.
Graphically, Flippin Kaktus is disappointing.
I’m not usually fussed about graphics, but Flippin Kaktus disappointed me. Its dated style, pixelated imagery, and simple level design are underwhelming. Furthermore, the lack of detail was disappointing, and I yearned for much more. With such an interesting concept, the developers could have been more experimental and risqué. However, instead, you are treated to clichéd worlds and insipid characters.
This sadly leaches into the audio. The Western-themed music works well but lacks a cutting edge. What’s more, it is devoid of energy and this makes the gameplay feel flat. Alongside this, the sound effects lack oomph and each weapon appears bland. Again, it was a shame, as there was potential for a great experience.
A supertanker is more accurate.
Tight and responsive controls are the minimum standard for platforming titles. Annoyingly, Flippin Kaktus lumbers along like a sloth. Its unresponsive controls have the accuracy of a supertanker. Consequently, death is a certainty and frustration is all but assured. With some minor tweaks, it could be vastly improved.
Thanks to its two unique approaches, there is some longevity and replay value. However, because of its shortcomings, you may not wish to return. I adored the interesting ideas, but I was disappointed by much of the action. Therefore, I struggled with the idea of playing it repeatedly.
Flippin Kaktus is an underwhelming retro title.
I wish I could be more positive, but I can’t. Flippin Kaktus should have been a great retro experience. Yet, it left me wanting so much more. Sadly, it’s flawed in many ways because of its cumbersome controls. If this issue can be addressed, the game would be vastly improved. I can’t recommend it, but more information can be found here! Revenge and rage go hand in hand, but will you take a stealthier approach?
