Smash it Wild: Tactical Volleyball Roguelike

An unusual mix of strategy, sports, and some roguelike elements that works but falls short on likely staying power.

Smash It Wild is a wholly original title that sticks the landing most of the time. The gameplay is fun and engaging, each team feels unique and challenges the player in different ways, and it blends what feel like two opposing genres together excellently. It is frustrating that the game is so short, especially when the options to make it longer feel so obvious. The final difficulty spike, combined with the roguelike elements, could frustrate some players, but that cannot detract enough from the strengths of the game to stop it from getting my recommendation. The game feels tailor-made for Switch with its bite-sized, pick-up-and-play nature and, although the playtime will likely only clock in at just under ten hours, the brief time with the game is time well spent.

If you’re into tactical games with a dash of sports and roguelike elements, Smash It Wild is a deeply enjoyable entry in the genre. I love the art style and the fundamental gameplay, I just wish there were more reasons to keep coming back when you've done everything.