Cute and chaotic pixel-art platformer
Dino Quake is a delightful arcade platformer that brings a fresh mechanic to the classic genre. Players join the heroes, Mina and Kiwi, on a mission to repel an alien invasion. The game's core loop revolves around stunning enemies with quakes and then kicking them to create chain-reaction avalanches.
For avid fans of retro games, Dino Quake offers a charming pixelated aesthetic reminiscent of classic 16-bit titles. While it shares the side-scrolling format with titles like Super Mario Bros. or Rayman, its fun quake mechanic sets it apart. It’s a great pick for those who enjoy strategic arcade fun.
Dino Quake's standout feature is its pure arcade gameplay. Easy to grasp but hard to master, it requires a combination of quick reflexes and strategic timing. Joining the adorable characters Mina and Kiwi, you have to embark on an adventure to save their world from an alien invasion. You have to jump, stomp, and kick your way, creating quakes and triggering a chain reaction of epic avalanches.
Ground-breaking adventure
With each run, you get to choose your own path through the different worlds, which means no two playthroughs are exactly alike. As you progress, the levels become more complex, introducing new enemy types and environmental hazards that force you to adapt. This feature, combined with the unlockable characters, gives the game a fresh feeling every time you start a new adventure.
The game also excels in its presentation. The 16-bit aesthetics are a welcome throwback, with colorful sprites and detailed environments that are a feast for the eyes. What’s more, the charming music tracks perfectly complement the on-screen action, creating an upbeat and engaging atmosphere. The only downside is the lack of content after an initial playthrough, with runs feeling a bit repetitive despite the multiple paths.
Serves up retro charm
All in all, Dino Quake is a charming and unique platformer that successfully blends retro aesthetics with a clever new gameplay mechanic. The quake mechanic and the strategic element of triggering avalanches provide a refreshing twist on the arcade genre. With its vibrant visuals and catchy music, it's an enjoyable experience, though the limited content can leave some players wanting more after a few hours of play.
