SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake is a simple but cute platformer that aims to improve the issues that held down its predecessor, SpongsBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom-Rehydrated. While this game may be cute and showcase vast references from the show, does it manage to rise above its faults in combat? Let’s take a closer look.
Die-hard Fans of SpongeBob will fall in love with SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake right away because it is full of fun gameplay and nostalgic references to the show. Although it might not be the most challenging platformer, the game is an excellent method to get novice players interested in platforming.
SpongeBob SquarePants and Patrick Star are offered mermaid tears in Bikini Bottom by Kassandra, a fortune teller, who claims they can grant any request. When Patrick and SpongeBob don’t read the tiny print, the bubbles release a vortex that transports all of their friends to various Wishworlds. SpongeBob is responsible for travelling to Bikini Bottom, saving his buddies, and restoring order.
There are seven distinct Wishworlds to discover, some of which are more entertaining than others and draw influence from the TV show, such as Halloween Rock Bottom and Prehistoric Kelp Forest. Every time players enter a new portal, they are given tasks to complete to advance the world and bring SpongeBob’s missing buddies back. This pattern often appears throughout the game, detracting from the goal’s overall quality.
The game’s gameplay is straightforward and not overly complicated, making it ideal for players exploring the platform genre. SpongeBob can use pizza boxes as gliders and frequently rides a seahorse to get across the action-packed sections. Although the platforming is tidy and slick, some moderately challenging combos remain. This can be a drawback for those seeking a more complex game.
Each Wishworld’s final boss battle differs from the gameplay of the previous games and is a true standout. For instance, players embark on a stealth adventure with Gigantic Gary in Halloween Rock Bottom, whereas Prawn in Pirate Goo Lagoon is a more conventional dodge-and-attack enemy. Even though boss fights of this nature may not be exclusive to video games, it is encouraging to see THQ Nordic and Purple Lamp Studios inject modern concepts into the brand.
There are many hidden objects to find in each Wishworld, such as hidden doubloons, like in most platformer games. The doubloons may be used to level up SpongeBob and unlock 30 different outfits for him to wear, but to find them all, players must return to completed Wishworlds and employ new skills. Although they don’t add particular abilities, the outfits are decorative and serve as amusing mini-goals within each level.
Players are given the impression that they are watching a 3D version of the TV show thanks to the art direction and sharp graphics. The Wishworlds don’t have the same level of intrigue as other platformers, but they nevertheless scratch the itch long enough to reach the monster. Some Wishworlds need more detail, while others are adorned with ornaments and NPCs.
Regarding SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake, combat is its worst flaw. SpongeBob’s Karate Kick and the Bubble Wand moves can be repeatedly used to dispatch most Jelly foes. The combat was less exciting because it was usually slow, and you had to wait for an enemy to attack before you could hit them. Fighting the same Jelly foes over and over again is a nice break, so adding vertical levels and slides for variety is great.
The game’s cutscenes keep SpongeBob fans interested and help break up the monotony. They are enjoyable at all times, colourful, and well-acted. It’s also fascinating to see how a video game based on a popular television show can collaborate with the original cast, enhancing the overall experience. The vocal lines, however, frequently get repetitious while being played. The game would be a monotonous collect-and-return game without the cutscenes.
Although the main plot is endearing, side tasks occasionally appear throughout the game. These motivate players to thoroughly explore every possible option, as well as to revisit earlier levels. But, like the clothes, the side tasks are merely there to keep players interested for a while and don’t contribute to the main plot.
SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake is an excellent platforming game overall for die-hard fans of the TV show. It also introduces young players to the genre. While SpongeBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom-graphics Rehydrated and design are improved, some players may find the lack of variety in the Jelly opponents and Wishworld designs off-putting. Nevertheless, it’s interesting to look at because of all the show connections.
For January 30, SpongeBob SquarePants: The Cosmic Shake will be available on Xbox One, PS4, PC, Nintendo Switch, and PC. A PS5 code was given to Game Rant so that they may conduct this review.
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