With the surge in interest in retro games, we’re starting to see favorites make a return. Heck, even Bubsy is getting a compilation, even if it wasn’t entirely asked for. But it’s a good thing, as people are recognizing the importance of gaming history. (Unlike some big publishers, wink.)
Ratalaika Games is a big fan of this practice. And it continues this run with Aero the Acrobat, a classic Sunsoft platformer that comes to use from the 16-bit era, You know, SNES and Sega Genesis? In it, you control a heroic bat as he challenges Ektor for freedom in a circus world.
This game came out during a renaissance of 16-bit platformers. So, to many, it got lost in the shuffle. But you can rediscover it now for the budget price of $6.
Is it an ideal 16-bit experience? Not entirely, as it does have its problems. But it’s lovingly emulated and has a lot to offer for its meager price tag. Plus its arrival confirms bigger games to come. That includes the awesome Aero the Acrobat 2 and the sleeper hit Zero the Kamikaze Squirrel.
Gotta start somewhere, yeah?
Going Batty
You control Aero, a hero that finds himself in an unlikely situation. Turns out Ektor is turning the circus spectacle into a nightmare, and only you can save it. With his drill techniques and other abilities, Aero must save the day.
The plot is basic at best (compared to the later games, anyway), but it does set the, ahem, stage. Aero goes through each level finding items and beating enemies with drill attacks. He’ll also find other opportunities, including flaming hoops and using a cannon to reach higher platforms.
While the mechanics are solid, they aren’t perfect. It takes a bit to master the drilling technique, as aiming is a bit off. You either have to hold the controller up or down to drill upward or downward. And that is difficult when you’re jumping between platforms. The sequel is much more relaxed, though, so at least the developers at Iguana solved the problem. Here, though, it’s still on full display.
But the game is still fun, especially the later levels. You’ll do everything from taking flight to riding on a (somewhat) controllable unicycle. You also take part in a bungee jump, which isn’t as epic as Earthworm Jim’s, but still pretty good.
There’s plenty to do here, but it all comes to an end all too soon. We were at credits with Aero in a couple of hours. Still, that time gave us lots of retro memories with the simple yet enjoyable gameplay.
Plus Ratalaika offers a few bonus features, including visual options and the ability to rewind. That’s helpful in case you make a mistake. But that’s about it, as there’s no real history behind Aero. That’s something we wanted to see, if only to learn more about Iguana in its heyday.
But I digress. A fun 16-bit platformer is still a fun 16-bit platformer. And you can’t go wrong with a $6 price tag. Aero the Acrobat isn’t bad.
Aero the Acrobat Looks Like a Champ
While it’s clear that Aero the Acrobat isn’t going to set visual records, it does get a nice refresh. The visuals are as colorful as ever, with Ratalaika giving it fine treatment. It also has a mostly smooth frame rate, and the different visual options are nice. Plus Aero does have some cute animations – particularly one as he bites the dust. (Sorry, we’re not trying to trumpet the idea of death being “cute.”)
The music is also pretty good, but not as amazing as the sequel. Still, if you like remixed 16-bit circus tunes, it’s not bad at all. Aero sounds adorable as well, with little squeaks to go along with his moves. The other sound effects are typical at best, but aren’t off in the least.
In short, this looks and sounds like its 16-bit product. But it’s emulated beautifully, and fans will feel right at home with it.
A Must See Show?
So, in itself, Aero the Acrobat isn’t as memorable as the sequel and spinoff that follow. It’s not bad, by any means, but those games (which are coming over the next couple of months!) really set the standard for 16-bit platforming.
Still, you have to start somewhere, yeah? And Aero the Acrobat as a whole is pretty good. Not mind-blowing, but a fun reminder of the days of gaming yore. It’s emulated about perfectly, and has extra options to enjoy (though no real history lesson). It’s also enjoyable to play once you get the hang of it. And who doesn’t like virtual bungee jumping?
We’re getting better games, but Aero the Acrobat is an appreciable 16-bit adventure that’s worth the cheap price tag. Old-schoolers will be right at home going batty with this guy.
GAMERHUB RATING: 3.5 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Many thanks to Ratalaika Games for the review code! Aero the Acrobat is available now for Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch!
