In February 2021, after 21 years of silence from the original Jet Set Radio franchise, Team Reptile took a bold step with Bomb Rush Cyberfunk. This indie action-adventure platformer, focused on skating, biking, and graffiti, not only surpasses the developer’s previous work but even outshines its primary inspiration.
Team Reptile, known for the Lethal League series, decided to create their own spiritual successor to Jet Set Radio. The announcement of Bomb Rush Cyberfunk was accompanied by a new track from Hideki Naganuma, the composer behind the iconic Jet Set Radio soundtrack. This instantly captured the attention of fans, as the music played a significant role in making the original game a classic. The soundtrack of BRC features a mix of genres, from funky and R&B to experimental ambient tracks, all with Naganuma’s eccentric touch.
Recreating the gameplay of Jet Set Radio was no easy task, but Team Reptile succeeded in capturing the essence of the original. The game’s visuals pay homage to the 90s and early 2000s, with vibrant colors, smooth camerawork, and cyberpunk environments reminiscent of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater. The gameplay itself is a fusion of Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater and Splatoon, where players explore areas, graffiti walls, engage in skating contests, perform combos, and compete for territory. It’s a refreshing departure from the open-world, quest-driven focus of many modern games.
While Bomb Rush Cyberfunk does have a story, it takes a backseat to the core gameplay. Players assume the role of Red, a former hot-shot who is broken out of prison and saved by new friends. Together, they aim to rule New Amsterdam through their skills in skating, biking, rollerblading, and graffiti, while seeking revenge. The focus is on one-upping opponents and engaging in thrilling battles for territory, making the skating game aspect more prominent than the graffiti element.
The gameplay mechanics are smooth, with enjoyable grinding and trick mechanics. The variety comes from the different modes of transportation available in New Amsterdam. Although the trick complexity may not match that of games like Skate 3, the overall experience is unique due to the game’s objectives and goals.
As someone who discovered the Jet Set Radio series years after its release, Bomb Rush Cyberfunk has captured my attention and excitement. It delivers the same addictive gameplay, incredible music, and captivating atmosphere that Jet Set Radio Future provided me. With new tracks to add to my playlist, engaging gameplay to master, and a whole new world to conquer, Bomb Rush Cyberfunk is a must-play for fans of the original series and newcomers alike.
Source: DOTESPORTS
