Goat Simulator 3 Review: Baa-ck and Better Than Ever
The laugh-out-loud sandbox that redefines farmyard fun
last updated Feb 19, 2024
Goat Simulator 3 is a testament to the power of not taking yourself too seriously.
A Chaotic Return to Form
Goat Simulator 3 is a testament to the power of not taking yourself too seriously. From turning into a giant banana to performing cult rituals to open portals to Sweden/hell, this game has it all. The ability to play in local or online co-op adds a whole new layer of mayhem, allowing you to engage in hilarious mini-games that might just ruin friendships. However, it's not all just fun and ragdoll physics; there's a massive map to explore filled with secrets, absurd challenges, and an overwhelming amount of things to headbutt into oblivion. Despite a recurring glitch that breaks the lobby after about an hour of play, requiring a game restart, the mayhem is relentless and addictively fun.
Cacophony of Chaos in Audio
The audio in Goat Simulator 3 is nothing short of a madcap symphony. From the triumphant blare of the soundtrack that follows your goat’s anarchic rampages to the gut-busting sound effects of explosions, headbutts, and the distinctive BAAA of your goatly protagonist, it’s clear the audio was designed to complement the game's absurd humor. Even the NPC conversations, which parody the overwrought dialogue of titles like Oblivion, add another layer of humor that keeps the experience feeling fresh and entertaining. Pairing your chaotic escapades with Katy Perry's 'Firework' as you launch humans with a firework launcher adds another hilarious twist to the gameplay.
G.O.A.T. Graphics and Performance
In terms of graphics and performance, Goat Simulator 3 delivers a surprisingly polished experience. Given the game's propensity for chaos, one might expect a buggy, unplayable mess, but the reality is far more stable. Running well even on the Steam Deck with manageable adjustments, the game showcases an open world that's both detailed and delightfully absurd. From highly textured environments to the frankly ridiculous character models (skateboarding hammerhead shark, anyone?), the visuals perfectly capture the game's off-the-wall humor. Despite a few notable bugs, especially with misplaced head items causing hilarious flinging physics, the game runs remarkably smoothly across a variety of hardware configurations.
Indie Spirit Shines Through
It’s impossible to discuss Goat Simulator 3 without tipping a hat to the indie spirit that permeates every facet of its design. From a myriad of easter eggs and game references to improved bugs (if such a thing can be said to exist), the game feels like a labor of love. It pushes the envelope with its crazy sandbox antics and lack of concern for conventional game design wisdom. The developers’ willingness to embrace the original game’s bug-ridden charm and dial it up to eleven is really what sets this sequel apart from its predecessors. It's a rare sequel that manages to capture all the charm of the original while expanding its universe in new and unexpected ways.
STEAM RATING
Developer
Coffee Stain North
Publisher
Coffee Stain Publishing
Release Date
February 15, 2024
Verdict
Goat Simulator 3 is a glorious return to the anarchy that made the original game a cult classic. It’s bigger, funnier, and more absurdly brilliant than ever, offering endless hours of laughter, exploration, and goat-related destruction. Whether you’re causing a banana apocalypse, participating in cult rituals, or exploring its massive, detail-rich open world, there’s no shortage of fun to be had. While it has its flaws, particularly in regards to a frustrating multiplayer glitch, it remains a must-play for anyone looking for a game that doesn’t take itself too seriously. In a sea of cookie-cutter titles, Goat Simulator 3 stands out as a beacon of sheer, unadulterated joy.