Why do “Battle Royale” games always need to involve some form of weaponry? There are better ways to fight, you know. Who’s got a deck of cards?
The developers behind Headbangers: Rhythm Royale recognize this, instead basing their game around music and birds. Yes, birds. In the game, you’ll take part in a number of hilarious mini-games, eventually trying to reach the final round. It’s like Fall Guys, but you have to worry more about accurate button presses rather than being bonked by an obstacle (well, in most cases).
There could be more added to the game long-term, especially with more mini-games with each season and definitely more accessories (like ones based on rappers, maybe, to represent actual “game”). But Headbangers has potential, and offers enormous rhythmic fun. Again, with birds.
Let’s Get To the Games
First off, Headbangers has a pretty good variety of mini-games. Over 20 are available. Some are simple, while others hold more catastrophic consequences that could cost you in later rounds. But they’re all fairly easy to get into; and, over time, you can master their techniques in the hopes of moving on to the next round.
The gameplay is simple but nicely programmed, as the game reads your responses like a champ. If any error comes within these games, they’re from human input, so you have no one to blame but yourself. (Or your grandma, hope she doesn’t mind.)
Most of the games are fun to play, including an inspired take on Whac-a-Mole and some hilarious dance contests. Others, however, tend to drag a little bit, going way too long for their own good. But they’re still enjoyable, especially with the right group of players.
Of course, this means hopping online. But the sessions we took part in were very responsive, and the extras we were able to unlock – including some ridiculous outfits for our bird characters – make the trip worthwhile.
I just hope that the developers at Glee-Cheese Studio (do they actually eat cheese?!) keep supporting the game with each passing season. Like Fall Guys before it, it can thrive on its silliness and inventiveness alone. It just needs to, ahem, find that groove.
Winging It With Presentation
Another great aspect that makes Headbangers click so well is its presentation. These birds aren’t afraid of making themselves look like fools to get through their mini games, dressing up as everything from Cleopatra to…Santa Claus? (Hey, birds gotta fashion!) They animate very well and have some great characteristics that show off during each round. And, of course, their motions make for some hilarious moments.
The audio is surprisingly engaging as well. There are no licensed tracks in this game (a bit of an odd choice), but it still works, thanks to tunes that are easy along to bop to. And, of course, creating your rhythm with a somewhat oddball duck never hurts either.
It’s not Earth shattering, but the presentation helps Headbangers thrive longer than expected. Again, we just need to see what the developer has in mind for it in the future to keep the party going.
Birds of a Feather
If you’re not a fan of party games or you just don’t get the idea of rhythm (or you just couldn’t master Guitar Hero – it’s okay to admit it), then Headbangers: Rhythm Royale may not be a game to flock to.
However, if you’re up for a good time and something a little different in the competitive arena, Headbangers just might be the party for you. Most of the mini-games are a blast; the unlockable extras are exceptional; and you can really have a good time with the right group of weirdos.
Besides, what else are you going to do? Sit on a telephone wire? Get out there and party!
GAMERHUB RATING: THREE AND A HALF (out of FIVE) JOYSTICKS
(Thanks to Team 17 for the review code!)
