Saturday Morning RPG for the Nintendo Switch is a delightful throwback to the 1980s, capturing the essence of Saturday morning cartoons and infusing it into a unique role-playing game experience. Developed by Joystick Labs, LLC and published by Limited Run Games, this game follows the story of Martin Marty Hall, a high school student with the ability to channel magic through everyday objects.
One of the standout features of Saturday Morning RPG is its episodic structure, allowing players to build Marty's power throughout multiple individual episodes. What sets this game apart is the ability to carry over stats, inventory, and story decisions between these episodes, creating a sense of continuity and consequences for your actions.
The game's visuals are a nostalgic feast for the eyes, with vibrant colors and pixel art reminiscent of classic games from the era it pays homage to. From the character designs to the environments, everything oozes with retro charm, immersing players in a world that feels like it could have been plucked straight out of a Saturday morning lineup.
While Saturday Morning RPG may not be perfect, it succeeds in capturing the essence of the 80s and delivering a unique role-playing experience. The game has received mixed reviews, with some praising its ambition and execution, while others find it lacking in certain areas.
Some critics, like Adam Jones from stashow.net, give it a glowing review, stating that it is one of the most ambitious handheld games in recent memory and applauding its overall quality. Others, such as Matt Smith from n00balert.com, appreciate its refreshing take on the genre.
However, it must be noted that not all reviews are so positive. Sean Koch from iFanzine.com states that Saturday Morning RPG is how JRPGs should have always felt, highlighting its strong points. On the other hand, Trevor Faulkner from elder-geek.com expresses his desire for more content, suggesting that the game could have been even more fulfilling.
In conclusion, Saturday Morning RPG is a unique and captivating role-playing game that successfully taps into the nostalgia of 1980s Saturday morning cartoons. Its episodic structure, retro visuals, and engaging gameplay make it an experience that should not be missed by fans of the genre. While not without its flaws, it stands as a love letter to an era long past, and for that, it deserves recognition.
