20XX, developed by Batterystaple Games, is a vibrant roguelike platformer for the PlayStation 4 that takes heavy inspiration from classic platforming games, most notably the iconic Mega Man X series. With its fluid gameplay, satisfying combat, and challenging yet rewarding roguelike mechanics, 20XX invites players to test their skills in procedurally generated levels that promise unique experiences each time. However, while it succeeds in several areas, it also presents certain limitations, particularly regarding replayability and visual depth. Let’s dive deeper into the ins and outs of 20XX and how it stands out as a modern homage to retro platforming.
At the heart of 20XX is its fast-paced, tight platforming and combat mechanics. The game controls are intuitive and responsive, making it easy to pick up but challenging to master—a crucial element for any roguelike or platforming title. Players take on the role of two primary characters, Nina and Ace, who serve as counterparts to Mega Man and Zero, with Nina wielding a ranged energy blaster and Ace relying on close-range melee attacks. The differentiation between these two characters adds variety to the gameplay and allows players to adapt their playstyle to suit their preferences.
The levels are procedurally generated, so no two runs feel the same, encouraging players to experiment and adapt to new situations on the fly. This roguelike element works particularly well in 20XX, as it adds replay value and instils a sense of accomplishment and progression as players grow accustomed to the diverse mechanics and level layouts. Each level culminates in a boss fight that is challenging yet fair, requiring players to study patterns and exploit weaknesses—a hallmark of classic platformers.
Where 20XX truly shines, however, is in its item system and upgrades. As you progress through each run, you can collect upgrades, abilities, and power-ups that significantly impact gameplay, from simple health boosts to complex abilities that change your entire strategy. The roguelike nature of 20XX means you’re never sure what kind of run you’ll have; sometimes, you may receive a loadout that makes you feel invincible, while other times, the game will challenge you with less advantageous gear. This unpredictability keeps things fresh and rewarding.
While 20XX’s gameplay evokes the retro classics, its visuals are more of a mixed bag. The art style is colourful, vibrant, and consistent, but it lacks a level of polish and detail to make it truly stand out. The backgrounds are relatively simplistic, and though the character models and enemy designs are distinct, they don’t have the same visual impact as games that have heavily inspired 20XX.
On the plus side, the animations are smooth, and the art style is clear, making it easy to follow the action, even in the most chaotic sequences. However, the overall visual package doesn’t quite match the level of detail and aesthetic finesse seen in other indie platformers, which could leave some players feeling that the visuals lack depth.
20XX has an energetic, upbeat soundtrack that perfectly complements the fast-paced gameplay. The music is reminiscent of classic platformers, with catchy tunes that keep players engaged and immersed in each level. The sound effects are satisfying, adding weight to attacks and providing auditory feedback that enhances the overall experience. However, while the soundtrack is enjoyable, it may not be particularly memorable, with few tracks that stand out individually. Nonetheless, it serves its purpose well within the game context, adding to the retro atmosphere without overshadowing the gameplay.
The roguelike elements in 20XX are well-implemented, but they may not be for everyone. The game's difficulty is unforgiving, especially in the later levels, which require precision, timing, and a good understanding of each boss's attack patterns. The game’s permadeath mechanic, where one mistake can end a promising run, adds a sense of tension and stakes that can be both thrilling and frustrating.
Players who enjoy a challenge will appreciate this aspect of 20XX, as it allows them to hone their skills and adapt to the game’s ever-increasing difficulty. However, players who are more accustomed to traditional platformers may find this aspect of the game a bit daunting. That said, the game does offer cooperative play, which can mitigate the difficulty slightly by allowing players to team up and share the burden of challenging levels and bosses.
Thanks to its procedurally generated levels and a wide variety of upgrades and items, 20XX has strong replayability. Each run offers something new, and the allure of discovering unique item combinations or mastering challenging levels will keep dedicated players coming back. However, some players may find that the game’s repetition wears thin over time, especially since there are limited environments and enemies.
While the roguelike mechanics provide a strong foundation for replayability, it would have been nice to see more variety in terms of environmental themes or enemy types. After multiple runs, even the procedurally generated levels can start to feel familiar, which may impact the game's long-term appeal.
20XX features local and online cooperative play, which is a fantastic addition that enhances the game’s enjoyment. Playing with a friend changes the game's dynamics significantly, as you can share resources and strategies on the fly and coordinate attacks. This is particularly useful in tackling the game’s more challenging levels and bosses, making the overall experience more accessible and enjoyable for players who may find the solo mode too difficult. Co-op mode, however, could benefit from more refinement; occasionally, the camera can be tricky to manage when more considerable distances separate both players.
20XX is a fantastic tribute to classic platforming games with a modern twist. It blends tight, responsive controls with challenging roguelike elements that reward persistence and adaptability. Although it has a few rough edges, particularly in the visual department, and with its repetitive nature after extended play, the game is delightful and a solid addition to any platformer enthusiast’s library.
For players who love a good challenge and can appreciate the blend of old-school gameplay with modern roguelike mechanics, 20XX is a worthy investment. While it doesn’t entirely reinvent the wheel, it brings a lot of charm and excitement to a tried-and-true genre.