Hammerin' Hero for PSP is a delightful retro gaming experience that brings back the nostalgia of classic side-scrolling beat 'em up games. Developed by Irem and published by Atlus, this game follows the story of Gen, a carpenter determined to save his neighbors from the clutches of the evil construction company led by Hyosuke Kuromoku.
The game's vibrant and colorful visuals perfectly capture the essence of old-school platformers, transporting players back to a time when pixel art ruled the gaming landscape. The comic adventure is fully-voiced in both English and Japanese, adding an extra layer of charm to the gameplay.
One of the standout features of Hammerin' Hero is the variety of jobs that Gen can take on. From being a sushi chef to a baseball player or even a diver, each job comes with its own unique costumes and attacks. This adds a layer of depth and customization to the gameplay, allowing players to adapt their strategies to different situations.
With 12 diverse stages to explore, Hammerin' Hero offers plenty of opportunities for players to showcase their hammer-swinging skills. Along the way, players can make allies in battle, collect numerous items, and even unlock two additional playable characters. The game also supports ad-hoc multiplayer, allowing for cooperative play and competition for the best score on each level.
While Hammerin' Hero succeeds in capturing the essence of retro gaming, it does have a few shortcomings. The game's controls can feel somewhat clunky at times, leading to frustrating moments during intense battles. Additionally, the level design lacks innovation, often leading to a sense of repetitive gameplay.
Despite these drawbacks, Hammerin' Hero remains a solid choice for fans of classic side-scrolling beat 'em up games. Its charming visuals, diverse job system, and multiplayer support make it an enjoyable experience, particularly for those seeking to relive the glory days of retro gaming. With a bit of polish on its controls and level design, Hammerin' Hero could truly be a standout title in the genre.
Overall, Hammerin' Hero receives a rating of 4 out of 10. While it certainly has its flaws, the game's nostalgic appeal and unique gameplay elements make it worth a playthrough for avid retro gaming enthusiasts.