The project from a small studio from Catalonia may, at first glance, resemble the legendary ” Tron “, but it follows its own unique path. At the center of Narita Boy’s story is a boy who found a game console and entered the center of the digital universe. Now only he and his hero Narita depend on the return of the creator of the game to the real world and the salvation of hexadecimal virtual reality from a dangerous virus. The motherboard’s chosen one must visit the remote cities of computer space and restore the creator’s memories, which tell a poignant story of life in post-war Japan. However, this journey is much more than it seems.
Players will have to visit several colored regions, including the golden desert and the technological capital of the kingdom. In addition to exploring the world in the form of a mighty avatar with a legendary sword (Techno Sword), you will have to face off against dangerous bosses, transform into a beautiful deer in the digital forest and fight colossal opponents on a giant robot.
Narita Boy uses the laws of the metroidvania genre, but in fact does not apply to it. Yes, the hero gains abilities and periodically returns to the stages already passed in order to open the next door, but all these movements are not directly related to new opportunities. Sometimes they are necessary to defeat an enemy or achieve a goal, but they do not become a direct key to exploring overlooked areas of the world.
Moreover, the character’s progress is more than noticeable. You start the game without melee weapons, only with a jump, but quickly gain dodges, a shotgun and a laser, a legendary blade, different types of blows, the ability to break through walls, climb surfaces and inflict increased damage on special types of enemies, changing your base element for a while. This mechanic is somewhat reminiscent of the failed Golden Age remake.
By activating color mode, you can deal increased damage to enemies of the same color, but receive more damage from normal opponents. By the end of the game, you will be attacked by mixed digital enemies, which will make you think tactically. Acquaintance with the guardians of the three color rays will give you the opportunity to summon them during the battle for a super attack. Naturally, all special abilities require a recharge. The bar for summoning assistants and restoring health is filled right during the battle.
The authors pay a lot of attention to the history of the world, which has several layers. There are references to classic games and science fiction, and many points draw parallels with the actual problems of our time. However, sometimes the amount of text and special jargon seems excessive. The disadvantages include the lack of a map and puzzles built on memorization. Thank you for solving some of them, the hint with the required code is forever saved next to the screen.
Visually, Narita Boy looks just amazing, and not only because of the effect of old TVs thanks to chromatic aberration – you can simply turn it off in the menu if you want. Much more important is the very cool animation of the characters, dozens of various, sometimes unique opponents, bosses that require an individual approach, and rich and vivid fights. Well, all this is complemented by great electronic music.
