Nintendo Switch RetroRealms: Ash vs Evil Dead Review

RetroRealms: Ash vs Evil Dead brings the chaotic, gory world of the Evil Dead franchise to life in a delightful 16-bit style platformer. Developed by WayForward and published by Boss Team Games, this game captures the essence of the Ash vs Evil Dead TV series while delivering solid gameplay and gorgeous pixel art visuals.

Gameplay: Chainsaw-Wielding Fun

The game excels in its core gameplay loop. Players control Ash Williams (or other unlockable characters) as they navigate through increasingly difficult stages filled with Deadites. The combat is satisfying, allowing you to dispatch enemies with Ash's iconic chainsaw or shotgun. Additional weapons like throwing knives and axes add variety to the carnage.

A unique mechanic is the Dark Realm, which can be activated to reveal hidden platforms and secret areas. However, this comes at the cost of facing tougher enemies, adding a risk-reward element to exploration.

Visuals and Audio: A Pixel-Perfect Homage

RetroRealms: Ash vs Evil Dead shines in its presentation:

• Pixel Art: The game's 16-bit style graphics are a feast for the eyes, perfectly capturing the spirit of the franchise.
• Gore: True to the Evil Dead series, the game doesn't shy away from over-the-top violence and blood splatter.
• Boss Designs: The boss battles are particularly noteworthy, featuring memorable characters from the series with distinct personalities and attack patterns.
• Audio: While the music can be subtle at times, the sound effects are spot-on, from the revving of Ash's chainsaw to the screeches of the Deadites.

Content and Replayability

While the main campaign isn't particularly long (about 3 hours), the game offers several reasons to return:

• Multiple Characters: Besides Ash, players can unlock and play as other characters like Kelly Maxwell, each with unique abilities.
• Collectibles: Each level contains hidden Necronomicon pages to find, encouraging thorough exploration.
• Hub World: The game features a first-person hub area styled as an arcade/museum, where players can unlock 3D models and behind-the-scenes content.

Minor Gripes

The game isn't without its flaws:

• Difficulty Spikes: Some players might find the sudden increase in difficulty midway through the game jarring.
• Balance Issues: Certain enemy types (like those with projectile attacks) can feel overpowered in later stages.
• Short Length: While replayable, some may find the main campaign too brief for the price point.

RetroRealms: Ash vs Evil Dead is a love letter to fans of the franchise and retro gaming enthusiasts alike. Its satisfying gameplay, gorgeous visuals, and faithful representation of the source material make it a standout title in the retro-inspired platformer genre.

Score: 8/10