PlayStation 3 Critic Reviews

Mastering each stage, finding all of the collectibles, and earning various Trophies should prove to be a very satisfying experience.

Ultimately, Explodemon doesn't coalesce into a product that's as refined or as beautiful as the Treasure classics that inspired it. But thought it may be a bit rough around the edges, it's also precisely the kind of game I would've bought used from a Japanese import store -- so, in that sense, it's still something of a gem.

The game is an homage to the 16-bit era, and is a reminder of everything I love about gaming. Unfortunately, repetition does sneak in, and the boss battles are a little disappointing, but if you are a fan of the genre you really should check it out.

Suitably, this notion serves as a separate allegory for Explodemon! as a whole - a very loving homage to its 8-bit heritage that modernizes the now 'retro' design approach for both the right cost and length.

Explodemon! is a must own for old-school platforming fans, but anyone else should do a bit of research for they drop their hard earned cash on it.

Explodemon is great fun for a few hours, providing interesting puzzles to blast your way through and many a secret to uncover. Repetition swiftly sets in, however, and you may well find yourself not bothering to play through to the end. Still, it's worth grabbing the demo to see whether you're into the concept.

Explodemon can't speak right (intentionally, that is), but explodes in a much more sophisticated manner. Casual and core gamers alike will love the simplicity of the controls, but don't expect too much variety.

As is seemingly the law with platform games, new abilities get bolted on, the challenge becomes more multi-faceted, you go blue in the face, forget to breathe, and pass out in front of your PS3 from platformitis. It's a common condition. Look it up.

An eclectic mix of platforming and combat mechanics help compensate for Explodemon's mundane inclinations.

Regardless of these minor draw backs, Explodemon! is a fun game, and does a good job of bringing back retro game elements that are rarely seen in new titles any more.