Battletoads, developed by Dlala Studios and published by Xbox Game Studios, is a modern reboot of the classic 1991 beat ’em up franchise, known for its intense difficulty and quirky, over-the-top action. This iteration reinvents the series with updated visuals, co-op gameplay, and a mix of platforming, combat, and vehicle stages that stay true to the chaotic spirit of the originals while introducing fresh mechanics and a more narrative-driven experience. For both longtime fans and newcomers, Battletoads offers a wild, adrenaline-pumping ride filled with humor, challenge, and frantic fun.

The game centers on the three iconic toad heroes—Rash, Zitz, and Pimple—on a mission to rescue their kidnapped friends and save the galaxy from the villainous Dark Queen. The story is presented through vibrant comic-style cutscenes packed with irreverent humor, witty dialogue, and a bit of fourth-wall breaking, capturing the tongue-in-cheek tone that made the original series a cult favorite. The voice acting is energetic and embraces the exaggerated personalities of the characters, adding to the game’s charm and accessibility. While the plot itself is straightforward and serves primarily as a backdrop, it successfully ties together the diverse stages and boss battles, giving players a sense of progression and purpose.

Visually, Battletoads sports a colorful and polished art style that balances cartoonish exaggeration with detailed animations. The characters are expressive and fluidly animated, especially during combat moves and combos, which look satisfying and impactful. The levels range from sprawling urban environments to surreal alien landscapes, each packed with dynamic hazards, enemies, and secrets. The game’s art design manages to evoke nostalgia for the 90s original while feeling fresh and vibrant, making it appealing to a broad audience.

Gameplay-wise, Battletoads is a fast-paced, action-heavy experience that blends side-scrolling beat ’em up combat with varied platforming challenges and vehicle segments. Combat is built around combos, grapples, and special moves that players can chain together for stylish and effective takedowns. Each toad has slightly different abilities and playstyles, encouraging teamwork in co-op mode and replayability in single-player. The difficulty is challenging but fair, with a gradual learning curve that rewards mastering timing and movement. The game also includes puzzles and platforming sequences that break up the combat and keep the pacing dynamic.

One of the standout features is the cooperative multiplayer mode, which allows up to three players to team up locally or online. Co-op enhances the chaotic fun, as players coordinate attacks, revive each other, and combine abilities to overcome tough enemy waves and boss encounters. The social aspect adds a layer of excitement and unpredictability, reminiscent of classic couch multiplayer sessions. However, some players may find certain sections frustrating due to tight platforming or difficult enemy patterns, which occasionally require trial and error.

The sound design complements the gameplay with punchy, impactful sound effects for attacks, jumps, and environmental hazards. The soundtrack features energetic rock and electronic tracks that match the game's pace and tone, fueling the adrenaline rush during intense battles and chase sequences. Voice lines and character banter are well-executed, injecting personality and humor throughout the experience.

From a technical perspective, Battletoads performs smoothly, with responsive controls and minimal load times. The game runs well across supported platforms, and the UI is clean and accessible. While some minor glitches and balancing issues were reported at launch, post-release updates have addressed many concerns, improving stability and overall polish.

In summary, Battletoads revitalizes a beloved franchise with a successful blend of nostalgia and modern design. Its vibrant visuals, tight combat mechanics, and engaging cooperative play create a challenging yet entertaining experience that captures the spirit of the original while standing on its own. Though the difficulty may pose a barrier for more casual players, those willing to invest time and effort will find a rewarding and memorable action game filled with humor, heart, and toadally wild moments. Whether you’re revisiting the series or jumping in for the first time, Battletoads delivers a hefty dose of adrenaline-fueled fun.

Rating: 7/10

overstay one's welcome
idiom
: to stay somewhere as a guest longer than one should

Original Battletoads was an unfair frustration-fest you really wished was more playable, because you liked the character art. This is the same. 80 mins total for me, trying both modes and it looks great, but it's the same thing, I just don't enjoy the gameplay having to pull off endless combo stuff to get by. I gather there are other types of gameplay in here if you persevere, but I cannot be arsed. I got it on sale and knew it would likely be as frustrating as it was back in the day... it is :D