BAKERU

BAKERU is a sweet action-adventure game that takes players on a mystical journey to the fantastical land of… Japan. But this isn't your average Japan trip – no, in BAKERU, the old mixes with the new in a modern-day odyssey that will have you taking control of a hero commanding all the powers from the Tanuki Clan.

I bet none of that gibberish immediately screams "rhythm game," right? Well, that's the magic of BAKERU: it's more than what you would expect from a game like this. BAKERU uses Japanese folklore in unique ways to please even the most fervent otaku among the crowd, but also manages to appeal to those players who are just looking for an engaging RPG experience that just so happens to involve satisfying rhythm sections.

The game's charm lies in its perfect balance of combat, exploration, and platforming, wrapped in a visual style that feels both nostalgic and fresh. That said, there are a few quirks that might sour the experience for the most, let's say, "demanding" players.

A Symphony of Combat and Movement

One look at the combat system in BAKERU, and immediately, the playful spirit of Miko Melee comes to mind. However, instead of focusing purely on platforming and cute anime girls, BAKERU has you using all the powers of your magical drum straight from the start.

Smashing baddies with perfect rhythm quickly becomes an integral part of the experience, which is something that fans of games like Rhythm Quest will surely love. Then, there are the legendary transformations, which let Bakeru turn into icons of Japanese folklore like Momotaro and Kintaro.

Movement is similarly worthy of praise, with platforming sections feeling incredibly smooth and responsive. Be it scaling ancient temples or traversing bustling city streets, the controls never get in the way of the fun.

Living Mythology

Much like Mystical Ninja Starring Goemon before it, BAKERU is a phenomenal take on bringing Japanese folklore to life in creative ways. Every prefecture houses its own unique local legends and architectural style, which seem to seep into the very level design.

Each place has stories to tell, from modern bustling districts to serene countryside shrines. If you're a fan of the vibe in games like Muramasa: The Demon Blade, you'll absolutely love what BAKERU has to offer.

That said, there are a few issues here and there, and most of them come with the game's level design. For a 3D platformer, there seems to be a clear lack of variety in BAKERU, which translates to levels that aren't as fun to play in as they are to explore. No biggie, though – the visuals and the sense of adventure make up for the disappointing level design.

Technical Mastery

Good-Feel has truly outdone themselves in creating this magnificent world which perfectly personifies the "Fairy Tale Japan" setting of this game. Although frame rates dip sometimes when things get really crazy, most of the time they barely disrupt the experience.

Rating: 8.5/10

The developers have predominantly worked for Nintendo in the past and it shows. BAKERU could easily be a first-party Nintendo title, complete with the quirkiness and wholesomeness we're used to from the brand. If that doesn't scream quality to you, I don't know what would.

Pros

• Satisfying rhythm/platforming gameplay
• Beautifully realized world based on Japanese folklore
• Excellent variety in gameplay

Cons

• Occasional frame rate issues in busy scenes
• Later levels can become slightly repetitive