Hand-Drawn Havoc
A Masterclass in Masochistic Satisfaction
last updated Dec 02, 2023
Cuphead is a triumph in every sense – except, perhaps, for the controllers that didn't survive the journey.
A Waltz of Bullets and Bosses
Cuphead's gameplay is a love letter to the shoot 'em ups and platformers of yesteryear, crafted with an attention to detail that borders on obsessive. Strapped with an arsenal of weapons and abilities, players traverse hazardous stages and confront devilish bosses that demand perfection and persistence. This isn't just a game; it's a relentless test of hand-eye coordination where each victory feels like a hard-earned triumph. The intricate patterns and boss behaviors push you to the brink of your abilities, creating an addictive cycle of play, rage-quit, and repeat that's hard to find elsewhere. Yes, Cuphead has the uncanny ability to crush your spirits yet keep those fingers itching for more punishment.
An Auditory Time Machine
The aural experience of Cuphead is nothing short of spectacular, harking back to an era of crackling jazz records and boisterous big bands. The original music is a stunning pastiche of 1930s jazz, capturing both the upbeat spirit and occasional melancholy of that time. Each tune is infectiously toe-tapping and superbly fitting for the on-screen antics, accompanying every death defying leap and nail-biting encounter. The sound effects complement the music with period-authentic pizzazz, rounding out an audio package that whisks you away to a bygone age – possibly one where torturing yourself with relentlessly hard games was the norm.
A Visual Feast for the Eyes
Graphically, Cuphead is a knockout punch of nostalgic splendor. The painstakingly hand-drawn animations bring to life characters and environments that could've leaped out of a 1930s animation reel – complete with all the whimsy and slight edge of horror characteristic of the era's toons. Performance-wise, it runs smoother than butter on the proverbial hot skillet, ensuring the action unfolds with silken fluidity right before your eyeballs. On the Steam Deck or a monstrous gaming rig, it consistently dazzles, with nary a stutter to break the illusion of being in an interactive technicolor fever dream.
An Everlasting Gobstopper of Challenges
Cuphead's devious difficulty isn't just an aspect of its charm; it's the whole dang candy store. Players describe embarking on a Sisyphean struggle against a parade of punishing adversaries, each with unique and absurdly challenging mechanics that can drive even the most stoic of gamers to the brink of insanity – a feat that even the devil himself would be proud of. While some may find the relentless challenge rewarding, others might nickname their fourth broken controller in honor of the game. However, it's not all fury and frustration; this difficulty is the crucible in which gaming legends are forged, so if you fancy yourself with Herculean patience, step right up to the Cuphead gauntlet!
Sibling Synergy or Solo Masochism
Whether you're a lone wolf or believe that misery loves company, Cuphead caters to both with equal flare. Take on the madness solo and hoard all the glory for yourself, or team up with a pal to share the trials and tears. Cooperative play doesn't merely double the fun; it's an exercise in solidarity in the face of overwhelming odds. It's worth noting that this isn't the kind of game you introduce to casual gaming friends unless you're in the mood for a night of combined existential crises over cartoon characters. Pro tip: make sure those friendship bonds are as strong as your in-game ones.
STEAM RATING
Developer & Publisher
Studio MDHR Entertainment Inc.
Release Date
September 29, 2017
Verdict
Cuphead is a masterpiece of design that takes everything we love about old-school gameplay, aesthetics, and sound, then cranks the intensity dial to eleven. It is a triumph in every sense – except, perhaps, for the controllers that didn't survive the journey. If the constant threat of digital peril is your idea of a good time, then this game will captivate, charm, and likely cause a spike in your blood pressure. Welcome to the big leagues, where games aren't just played; they're conquered.