Big Helmet Heroes (Nintendo Switch) Review

Big Helmet Heroes features simple, classic gameplay mechanics. The game's distinguishing feature is its extensive roster of unlockable characters, categorised into four classes. The Warrior class offers a balanced approach with sword and shield combat. The Brute class trades speed for high damage output and survivability. The Rogue class emphasises speed and dual wielding for combo-focused play. The Monk class utilises staves for multi-target attacks and possesses numerous invincibility frames during dodges. However, the Monk class is considered underpowered, and its elaborate animations, coupled with the characters' large heads negatively impacts readability during clashes with swarms of similarly large-headed foes.

Some stages will emphasise platforming, mazes, or gimmicky enemies, but the overall experience is tepidly simple for anyone who has ever played a beat 'em up from the 1990s. There aren't enough moves between the weapon styles and characters to fill out an abnormally large game of this type. It isn't a bad game. It does veer off into being mind-numbingly boring at times, but it is saved by the local co-op feature.

Players are not locked into a specific character or play style. Each stage allows selection of two characters, swappable at will. Additional characters can be recruited during a stage and are available until its conclusion. Standby characters gradually regenerate health. Strategic character selection adds a layer of tactical depth to the otherwise chaotic gameplay. While unlocking new characters is a highlight, Big Helmet Heroes reintroduces previously unlocked characters in later stages. This repetition feels redundant and dilutes the impact of unlocking new characters, suggesting an unnecessary distribution of the game's character pool.

There is a diverse range of stages, demonstrating notable variety given their large number. Levels vary in size and complexity, from expansive environments to dense, maze-like layouts, and often incorporate numerous traps and hazards. Despite these variations, all areas exhibit considered design choices. At times, the scenario evokes a less traditional fantasy setting and more closely resembles a comedic performance, reminiscent of Renaissance fair LARPers. Big Helmet Heroes presents a strong visual identity. The game's art style demonstrates a cohesive vision and consistent execution. For a Nintendo Switch game running on Unreal Engine 4, it looks and runs impressively.

Big Helmet Heroes is lacking satisfying sensory feedback. While the game offers a variety of combat moves and weapons, the impact of basic attacks lacks satisfying tactile and auditory reinforcement. Enemy attacks lack clear audio cues, and the accompanying animations and sound design are unconvincing. This contrasts sharply with the impactful feedback provided by temporary weapon pick-ups. For example, burning s'mores delivers a distinct explosive, fiery discharge upon contact. Basic attacks also have a much smaller hitbox than the models and animation would imply, further exacerbating the limp combat.