If you’re a fan of retro platformers, the name Atooi should ring a bell with you. This talented developer created such favorites as Xeodrifter and Mutant Mudds, among other little titles. They may not be the biggest titles out there, but they have a certain charm to them. And the same can be said for Atooi’s latest effort, Hatch Tales: A Heroic Hookshot Adventure.
In the game, you portray Hatch, the star of the Tales in question. (That’s the name of the game!) He’s called upon to travel across distant worlds, in the hope of stopping the Frozen Wraith, Nazar. It appears they want to wreak havoc on the land, pushing the Queen of Talonreach to her limit. So it’s up to Hatch to, of course, save the day.
Even with a simple story, Hatch Tales works because of its gameplay. Like Atooi’s previous efforts, it works on an addictive gameplay system. You work your way through levels, using a “hookshot” to help you get around. You can also take advantage of power-ups as well.
There are certain aspects – especially later stages in the game – that might frustrate some players. But the general game is a lot of fun, and collecting everything (and unlocking bonus goodies) is a huge plus. This one should have no problem, ahem, hooking an audience.
Hatch Tales Brings the Hook
Here’s how the controls work. As Hatch, you can use a hookshot and a special beak technique to get around a little easier. It actually works really well, especially when it comes to gem collecting. (To which there is a lot.)
That’s because Atooi doesn’t mess around with the gameplay. It just clicks. Getting around might be a little limited, as Hatch doesn’t really have much movement. But the abilities play a big part. Plus power-ups help you with additional tasks, such as breaking through blocks to access secret areas.
And, man, does this game have secrets. Like, plenty. You’ll really need to make an effort to unlock 100 percent in this game. But for fans of games like this – or the developer as a whole – will find it worthwhile.
Plus, on top of that, if you have access to a cheat code, you can unlock the bonus Chicken Wiggle levels. This was the original concept for Hatch Tales before it got changed up. It’s actually a pretty sweet inclusion, and you can switch between old and new visuals. Oh, and there’s a nod to Mutant Mudds as well, with its own bonus levels. Seems about right for the developer.
Again, it may frustrate a certain few, especially when spikes start showing up. But old-school fans will find these Hatch Tales to their liking.
A Simple Presentation, But That’s All Hatch Tales Needs
Since Atooi is a smaller indie developer, they don’t boast a large development budget. But the good news is it isn’t needed, and Hatch Tales still looks great.
While the graphics do resemble a mobile game more than, say, Mutant Mudds, they are a delight. The level design is diabolically good (again, especially with later stages) and the animations are cute. I do wish more was done with the menus, but they’re not bad.
In addition, the music and sound effects are pretty good. Atooi always seems to apply a retro touch in this department, and Hatch Tales follows suit.
Hatch This On Your Nintendo Switch
Even if the appearance somewhat resembles a mobile phone game, don’t be fooled. Hatch Tales is another win for the folks at Atooi. It’s nicely built, especially with its level design. And on top of that, it plays easily but offers a challenge for those that stick it out. Plus the bonus levels are a nice touch, though it’ll take effort to access them.
Definitely reserve some space for Hatch Tales for your Switch. It’ll hook you easier than expected.
GAMERHUB RATING: 4 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Many thanks to Overload PR for the review code! You can get the game now for Nintendo Switch.
Oh, you want more old-school reviews? Check out our coverage on Aero the Acro-Bat 2, Vengeance Huntersand Castlevania Dominus Collection!
