Spelunky (XBLA): "Spelunky Goodness With a Next-Gen Presentation""

First, and foremost I would like to thank Derek Yu for the code. ("Thank you so much!") He endured my persistent hounding, which I now feel very sorry for. He seems to be a very nice guy, and was unfortunately put into a situation where fake reviewers were spamming him with code requests. Thankfully though he saw through my simple minded request, and gave me the opportunity to review his deeply impressive game. This game of course is none other than 'Spelunky'. Many reviewers have sought it as well as many gaming fans. I'm definitely grateful to have the chance to feature my review of this game on "OtakuDante's Gaming Inferno". Without further adieu though I present to you my review of 'Spelunky'!!!

Like many awesome archaeological based games, and movies Spelunky features a protagonist that definitely fits the scenario. The little dude in this particular game is dressed in attire fitting of an 'Indiana Jones' flick. After stumbling upon the lost journal of Yang amidst some Mayan-like ruins our little friend sets out to complete the task that the previous adventurer had set out to accomplish. There are plenty of riches to gather, but the ultimate reward will be making out of the ever-changing labyrinth alive. Along the way the adventurer's cunning will be tested in many ways by such things as traps, vile creatures, and careless self inflicted wounds. Aside from the prospects of bountiful booty, damsels in distress also await the adventurer's rescue. The tasks at hand will be anything, but easy.

If you have ever played the free Spelunky PC game then you'll have a good clue as to what this game is all about. If you haven't heard of it then sit back, and prepare to be schooled by yours truly ...

Spelunky is a challenging 2D platforming game that uses randomly generated levels as it's main focus. You (the gamer) control one of several available/unlockable characters as you guide them through the ever-winding depths of the earth. At your disposal you have various abilities, and tools that will aid you in this descent. The said abilities include the ability to climb ledges, pick up objects, toss objects, bounce on enemies (in true "Super Mario Bros." fashion), and dash in order to reach the otherwise unreachable areas. The tools on the other hand come in a wide variety, but mainly include the use of a whip to dispatch the various creatures, bombs to blast your way to hard-to-reach areas, and a rope with which you can descend/ascend safely. More items can be obtained with the wealth you accumulate throughout the levels. There are hidden shops scattered throughout the depths of the ancient ruins that will allow you to buy things such as bombs, and even more advanced weaponry.

This latest version of Spelunky features some next-gen enhancements not featured in the original game. In that sense this game is a new experience. One of the more interesting features of this latest version of Spelunky is the interactive journal. Within the journal entries about various things are added as the adventurer (you) encounters them. If the adventurer dies in a certain way that will be recorded. Details on the creatures you kill are also recorded in a bestiary-like section of your journal giving both written and visual details of your encounters. Another really cool feature of the new Spelunky is the setting where you can choose which type of damsel you wish to rescue. The choices oddly includes the cliche sexy lady, a Chip & Dales-like stripper dude, and even a little pug dog. It's details like these that really set the game apart from the original version. One key difference between the two versions of the game though is the multiplayer mode. In this extra mode you will encounter fast brawls to the death between the characters (bots/players) of Spelunky. You are given the same tools, and abilities you have within the core game, but bonus weapons/items are obtainable through crates/chests located within the mini-stages you find yourself in. At times you will even encounter traps, and creatures.

In the end  mossmouth (the publisher/developer) delivers one heck of a solid experience with this title. Not only do you get a challenging core game, but you also gain a multiplayer which is as fun as it is strange. Everything from the game's loading screens to the in-game visuals themselves are presented in the best quality to date. The cartoon art style adds a whimsical atmosphere to the otherwise foreboding adventure. Little things like blood splatters, and various death animations make this something that even an adult would enjoy. While it does have it's fair share of violence I assure you it's not something over-the-top. If you like challenging platforming games, and like true innovation then Spelunky is a "Must Have!". With the randomly generated levels your playthroughs will never be the same twice.