Arc System Works is usually known for more of its “hardcore” efforts, like the ongoing (and highly successful) Guilty Gear Strive. So when it releases something charming and offbeat like Damon and Baby, you take notice. We previewed this one a while back, noting that we were looking forward to the full release. Now it’s here, and although it has its wrinkles, I was happy to partake in the adventure.
You guide Damon, a likable if somewhat un-handsome demon, as he makes his way through a world erupted in chaos. He has to deal with monsters and humans alike, who don’t really take a liking to him. What’s more, he finds himself dealing with a young baby after promising a friend he’d look after them. But what begins as a burden soon becomes an interesting journey.
I wish some of the story was trimmed a bit here, because Damon and Baby brings a lot of exposition. It might even be overwhelming to some. But the core action here is very good, with fun gameplay mechanics that you can upgrade. The lock-on system could use some work, but it’s not too shabby. Plus the exploration aspect is very cool, and the presentation has a lot going for it.
Damon and Baby isn’t the perfect story of unlikely parent and child. But it is an unlikely one that deserves an audience that will give it some love.
Damon and Baby Proves Parenting Can Be a Handful
Poor Damon. All this demon wanted to do was go about his merry little way. But after making a promise to a dying buddy that he’d watch his baby, he becomes an unexpected guardian. And what’s worse, he has to deal with both humans that could care less for him and monsters that want to destroy him.
It’s an interesting set-up for what is essentially a twin-stick shooter at its core. But Damon and Baby makes its offbeat formula work, mainly because the gameplay is pretty solid. You can actually use your baby to traverse quickly around the world, while also leveling up Damon with RPG-style progression and weapon upgrades. These are useful later on in the journey, especially as you come across some nasty bosses.
That said, the story tries to go too hard at times. I noticed an overwhelming amount of exposition over the course of the game. If they had cut this back a little bit, I would’ve found it much more approachable. But Damon and Baby’s exploration more than makes up for it, as you can discover some really cool stuff by looking around.
The gameplay is pretty cool, too. Getting into skirmishes is a lot of fun, and the weapons you can upgrade pack a punch. I do wish the lock-on system was a little easier, as you have to hit someone first before firing shots into them. But I digress, you can still kick plenty of butt. And, thankfully, the checkpoints within the game are nicely spread out.
There are parts of Damon and Baby that could use tinkering, particularly with all the story happening. But the characters at the general core are what the game’s all about, and chances are they might grow on you. Not bad for a game that literally comes out of left field, especially when you consider Arc System Works’ other releases.
How Do Damon and Baby Look and Sound?
One great aspect working for Damon and Baby is its visual presentation. This definitely looks like an offbeat style of game, like something anime inspired. I do wish some work went into a few of the levels, and that there was a better guidance system. But, with discovery in mind, this game offers quite a bit in its own right. And, damn it, Damon is a neat looking demon.
As for the sound, there’s a charming soundtrack here, along with little sound effects that round out the world you’re in. I wish there was more voicework involved, but as it stands, there’s enough good stuff to listen to.
Is Damon and Baby Worth the Burden?
While I would’ve changed some stuff with the lock-on system and a good amount of the narrative, Damon and Baby is just the kind of weird little game people need right now. It combines adorable characters with engaging twin-stick gameplay, nice RPG progression and a whole lot of exploration. Not to mention its wholesome little presentation, which might just grow on you.
I do wish more publishers would take chances on games like these, as they can help expand their libraries. Sure, keep releasing the hits too, but Damon and Baby is proof that new ideas can still land. Maybe not flawlessly, but, hey, it’s still something to watch. Give it a go.
GAMERHUB RATING: 3.5 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Thanks to Arc System Works for providing us with a review code! Damon and Baby is available now for PC/Steam,PlayStation and Nintendo Switch!
