MULLET MADJACK – Review
Mullet MadJack throws you headfirst into a cyberpunk future fueled by robot violence and a gloriously outdated hairstyle. Does this roguelike FPS live up to its over-the-top premise, or is it a style-over-substance misstep? Let’s grab our revolvers, channel our inner 80s action hero, and find out.
Story & Setting:
The year is 2090. Robillionaires, yes, robot billionaires, rule the world. They keep the masses hooked on a superbeing AI that needs a constant dopamine drip to survive. Enter the Moderators, unfortunate souls forced to kill robots in a deadly game show to provide that dopamine. Our hero, Jack (and his glorious mullet), is one such Moderator, but with a twist: he’s on a revenge mission against the Robillionaires.
Gameplay:
This is where Mullet Mad Jack truly shines. The core mechanic is a ten-second timer that constantly ticks down. Kill a robot, and the timer resets. Stop killing robots, well, you get the picture. This creates an incredibly fast-paced experience where every second counts.
You blast your way through neon-drenched corridors filled with robotic enemies. The gunplay is tight and satisfying, with a good variety of weapons to unlock, from pistols and shotguns to a gloriously over-the-top energy sword. Movement is snappy, and environmental hazards like exploding barrels and electric fences add another layer of frantic fun.
The Roguelike Twist:
Death is inevitable in Mullet Mad Jack. But like any good roguelike, each death is a chance to get stronger. You unlock permanent upgrades and perks that enhance your abilities for the next run. This loop of die, learn, repeat is highly addictive, constantly pushing you to improve and climb that damned tower a little bit higher.
Aesthetics & Style:
The game leans heavily into its 90s anime inspirations. Think bright colors, synthwave music, and over-the-top character designs (Jack’s mullet is a character in itself). It’s a perfect match for the game’s ridiculous premise and keeps the action feeling fresh.
Neon-Drenched Delight: A Feast for the Senses
Mullet MadJack explodes with a unique visual style. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Retro-Futuristic Fusion: The game blends neon-drenched cyberpunk aesthetics with retro 80s influences, creating a visually striking and memorable world.
- Anime-Inspired Flair: The over-the-top character designs and animations complement the fast-paced action, adding a layer of cartoonish charm.
- Pumping Soundtrack: A high-octane synthwave soundtrack perfectly complements the visuals, keeping your adrenaline pumping during the frantic gameplay.
Mayhem by the Minute: A Bullet Ballet with Blades
Mullet MadJack’s core gameplay is pure, unadulterated action:
- Frantic Firefights: Blast your way through hordes of robots with a variety of weapons, from revolvers to shotguns.
- Time-Based Tension: A constantly ticking 10-second timer adds a layer of frantic urgency to every encounter, forcing you to think fast and act faster.
- Environmental Brutality: Utilize the environment to your advantage, throwing enemies into hazards or performing stylish finishing moves with melee weapons.
A Glitch in the System: Minor Mechanical Missteps
While the core gameplay is fun, there are a few areas for improvement:
- Repetitive Enemies: The enemy variety feels limited, with some enemy types appearing too frequently throughout the game.
- Limited Weapon Progression: While new weapons are introduced, the overall weapon selection remains a bit shallow.
- Roguelike Grind: The roguelike elements, with procedurally generated levels and permadeath, can feel grindy at times, especially on later floors.
Mullet MadJack is a love letter to classic arcade shooters with a modern roguelike twist. The frenetic action, vibrant visuals, and time-based pressure create a truly unique and exhilarating experience. However, the limited enemy variety and lack of deeper weapon progression might leave some players wanting more.
This game is for you if:
- You crave fast-paced, adrenaline-pumping action with a unique visual style.
- You enjoy the challenge of roguelike elements like permadeath and procedurally generated levels.
- You appreciate the over-the-top humor and cheesy charm of 80s action movies.
However, you might want to wait if:
- You prefer deep and strategic shooters with a wide variety of weapons and enemy types.
- You dislike the grind often associated with roguelike games.
- You’re looking for a more serious and story-driven narrative.
