While it’s great seeing so many new games on the market, it’s equally awesome to see retro games get some love. That means a number of re-releases celebrating the games of yesteryear, and with extra options to boot. Ratalaika Games gave the Aero the Acro-Bat series some love over the past couple of months. And now, it’s time for the spin-off, Zero the Kamikaze Squirrel, to shine.
Initially introduced in Aero 2, Zero gets his chance to shine here, taking on evil forces while dive bombing his way through caverns. Oh, and finding inflatable hidden rooms, because that’s how it works, you know.
Though slightly lacking in extras, Zero has abundant gameplay to spare. And the fact you can add it to your library for an incredibly cheap price is really something. (Especially when you see what a boxed SNES version sells for these days.) It’s a little on the tough side, but this Kamikaze Squirrel deserves a spot in your library.
It’s Time For Zero the Kamikaze Squirrel!
The game begins with Zero working alongside Edgar Ektor on an evil scheme. But then, he suddenly becomes a much-needed hero when his home forest gets in trouble. Defying his boss, Zero sets out to save the day with his ninja stars, nunchucks and versatility. A dream combo, if you ask us.
Originally developed by Iguana Software, Zero the Kamikaze Squirrel is a platformer that stands the test of time. It’s still wildly fun to play after all these years, mainly due to its solid control scheme. Throwing ninja stars, double jumping and using nunchucks is a breeze. But the real treat comes with his diving capability.
Not only can you bop enemies on the head, but you can also dive into caverns and skillfully make your way to the other side. It takes some skill, but it absolutely pays off, especially in later stages.
Ratalaika kept the game’s controls perfectly intact (based on the SNES version). What’s more, there are a ton of secret areas to find, in which you enter by…inflatable doors? Hey, it could happen. Just don’t blow them up. BOOM!
For a $6 priced game, Zero the Kamikaze Squirrel has fun extras. Like Aero the Acro-Bat 2, it features a jukebox, saves, viewing options and more. But it uses the same basic, “slapped together” menu system. A little personality would’ve gone a long way with that. But I digress, as you’ll focus more on the adventure anyway.
It’s just great to see Zero back. And at a reasonable price tag that everyone can get into, compared to the super-high priced SNES version. I need a second mortgage just to afford that.
Not a Remaster, But a Fine Treatment of SNES Material
While Zero the Kamikaze Squirrel is hardly what you’d call a remaster, it’s a very good port of the SNES game. The visuals pop to life, especially when it comes to colors and animations. On top of that, the multi-scrolling remains intact, and the game runs just as beautifully as ever. The plain menus don’t do it justice, but the rest of the package is absolutely loyal to the original game.
However, I do wish the Genesis version was included for comparison. Some people prefer that edition of the game, even with its slightly dulled shading. But Ratalaika did choose the superior of the two, so there’s that.
As for music, it’s great. Like Aero the Acro-Bat 2, there are some great tunes to listen to. And you can browse through them in the menu’s Jukebox mode, should you wish. The sound effects are a blast as well, particularly Zero’s battle cry (a Bruce Lee style “WAHHHH!”).
It doesn’t go above and beyond the original game, but it doesn’t need to. Ratalaika made sure that everything was kept intact from the SNES venture, and you’ll definitely enjoy it.
Zero To Hero, Just Like That
Like Aero the Acro-Bat 2 before it, Zero the Kamikaze Squirrel is a must-buy. It retains all the greatness from the SNES game, but for a fraction of the price. Plus the extras, while not abundant, are pretty good. And, honestly, if you’re up for a challenge, this game brings it in spades. Those dive bombs do not come easy.
It’s great seeing SNES classics like this shine, along with those Genesis releases, too. The more the merrier, especially when they’re as sharp as Zero. WAHHHHH!
GAMERHUB RATING: 4.5 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Thanks to PR Hound for the review code! Zero the Kamikaze Squirrel is available now for Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch!
Oh, you want more retro goodness from Gamerhub UK? We got you. Check out our coverage on Aero the Acro-Bat 2, Iron Meat and Castlevania Dominus Collection!
