Bite the Bullet | PS4 Review

Bite the Bullet has been out for quite some time now. In fact I vaguely recall requesting the game for review near the initial launch some months back. For some odd reason the PR contacted me after the release though with an embargo for the 19th of March 2021. Well after the former debut. I was puzzled at first, but as I played I realized that there seems to be some adjustments made to mechanics, and controls. Quality of life features that were obviously implemented to make the game more enjoyable than it was. The metroidvania mechanics, in particular, seem to function better than in the gameplay videos I previewed. There was also a quick select button (R1) added for weapon swapping instead of the R3 dial menu that made things a little more complicated than they should be. Having spent some time with the game, and grinding through it's missions I think it's safe to say this upgraded, or revamped version is definitely worth a try.

For those of you who don't yet know what 'Bite the Bullet' is all about it is centered around a universe where the human population's dwindling numbers caused a food shortage. To remedy the issue the remaining humans were implanted with bio-nodes that allowed them to eat anything. This had some adverse effects, and triggered a ghoulification which turned some humans into grotesque versions of themselves. The company that made this all possible was DarwinCorp, and through that company serves two human mercenaries who are sent out to utilize their bio-node abilities for company benefit. For safety and research sake Chewie and Chewella, the male and female protagonists, are sent out to not only clear the threat of these mutated humans, but also gather the research data DarwinCorp requested.

As either Chewie or Chewella, the game's dynamic duo, you have the ability to wield guns, consume enemies, turn said consumed enemies into various types of calories for benefit, and transform into a hulking ghoulish brute to battle the more problematic foes. As you bring the enemy's health down via gun shots to the point they are dizzied you can consume them, and depending on the enemy type you'll gain either fatty or meaty calories as a result. Calories which will add to defense, or attack options as well as refill health, ammunition, and a ZomBro meter. In addition to that you'll earn points that can be used to upgrade your node skill tree. A skill tree with paths pertaining to the different types of calories, and ZomBro form. You can only upgrade towards one of the three calorie node types during a playthrough including the aggressive meat calorie branch, the defensive fatty calorie branch, or a branch that is neutral between the two. That and the ZomBro form node branch that enhances the ghoulish transformation ability. Each branch adds new combat, and defense features. Some tied to the tolerance or intolerance of certain types of calories, and the vomit that results from consuming calories not beneficial to the branch of nodes you are trying to complete. Of course health, and various attributes can also be upgraded in an RPG fashion through node upgrades. In regards to the main characters' ghoulification you'll find that the transformation can be upgraded too to increase the time you are in said form. Things of that nature. Ultimately making your chosen character more suitable for the challenging levels, and sub-missions found within.

The missions you'll face as you make use of your unnatural abilities include side-scrolling platform inclusive stages with their own environmental themes. These stages consist of multiple areas filled with weapons, weapon upgrades, special calorie items, and plenty of weapon toting enemies out for blood. With each given stage comes a list of side objectives that can be fulfilled to unlock bandannas for added bonus perks. This laundry list of side objectives has you doing things like defeating certain enemies, consuming a certain amount of calories, and even doing a speed run from start to finish, among other things. There are also hidden single try areas accessible by teleport devices which will test how good you are at only eating one of each enemy type, and making it to the end teleport alive. It's easier said than done. Mechanics-wise your character can traverse the areas with wall jumping, an aerial dash, and a boosted upwards jump. Basic metroidvania abilities outside of the ghoul form which allows for more hulkish brute force type dashes, and attacks. A limited time ability that relies on a meter that fills up with the consumption of calories, and the defeating of enemies.

Gun play, and melee combat are the means by which you'll tackle stage to stage completion. With gun play comes weapon upgrades that are gained by collecting similar weapons. The upgrades increase things like damage or ammo increases. You'll find an auto rifle and a shotgun early on. In ZomBro or Ghoulification form you'll gain a powerful dash punch, and basic punch attacks. With both the regular, and ZomBro attacks comes node variations that can be obtained by upgrading the node skill tree using the points you earn for literally spilling your guts on an intermittent scale within the stages. There's even power-ups that will add things like bird shields, or invincibility. Things that are gained from chowing down on special food type creatures. Speaking of creatures you'll be facing off against lesser, and boss type enemies in both the main playthrough, and mini-games.

In the way of extras the game does harbor a compendium of creature encounters, and special calorie items. Things that are noted along with a pixelized avatar image. It gives you something to work towards as you play through the game. For added replay value the game also features a co-op mode for those who can play locally with friends.

The Presentation ...

Visually the game looks to be cyberpunk inspired with bright lights everywhere in the form of colorful neons, and illuminated planets above the skylines. Almost like an 80's inspired art style. Stuff that makes the presentation pop like those oldschool Lisa Frank Trapper Keepers (80's kids will know). The game, by design, is pixel built in nature adding to it's indie flair. Everything from the effects to the characters and backgrounds are built of pixels. Quite detailed as well. Along with the lighting comes explosions, and bloodletting the likes of which most indies of this caliber do not include. Let me not forget the copious amounts of vomit that projects forth from the characters mouth as they rid themselves of unwanted calories. With the gory and vividly colorful visuals also comes a retro synth soundtrack fitting of the art style, and theme. Completing the package deal with a nice metaphorical bow. Hub features like the nod to the Star Wars Cantina add a little something extra to the otherworldly experience too. In fact it is the over the top characters, and the world they inhabit that really makes the game shine.

The Verdict ...

I was more surprised than I thought I'd be playing through 'Bite the Bullet'. There was something oddly satisfying about the combat. Being able to devour anything, and use the calories to carry you through each stage made the effort more demanding, and challenging, but not in a way that was off putting. I was so drawn into the gameplay loop even though I spent my early time with it struggling just to complete the first stage. The gunplay was solid with a Metal Slug or Contra feel, and the ghoul form offered an Incredible Hulk like experience that, in itself, was rewarding. Overall I think this upgraded version of the game is definitely worth a playthrough. I'd say it's worth buying even. It'll only set you back $15, and that's not bad for what it offers.