Summary
- Release Year: 2013
- Genres: Adventure, Arcade, Fighting, Hack and slash/Beat ’em up, Indie
- Platforms: Linux, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, Xbox 360
- Developers: Mediatonic, The Irregular Corporation
- Publishers: Devolver Digital
Foul Play (2013): A Side-Scrolling Co-op Brawler with a Theatrical Flair
Released in 2013, Foul Play is a side-scrolling co-op brawler that sets itself apart from other games in the genre with its unique setting and emphasis on performance. Players take on the role of Baron Dashforth, a daemon-hunter who must battle his way through hordes of demons on the grand spectacle of a theatre stage.
Gameplay
Foul Play’s gameplay is simple yet satisfying. Players can attack with light and heavy attacks, as well as perform special moves and reversals. The game’s unique twist is its focus on performance. Players are rewarded for performing stylish takedowns and reversals, which fill up a meter that can be used to unleash powerful special moves.
This focus on performance makes Foul Play a more strategic and rewarding experience than other brawlers. Players must carefully time their attacks and reversals in order to maximize their damage output and survive the onslaught of demons.
Co-op Play
Foul Play can be played solo or with a friend in co-op mode. Co-op mode is a great way to experience the game, as it allows players to team up and take on the hordes of demons together.
Co-op mode also adds a new layer of strategy to the game. Players must work together to coordinate their attacks and reversals, and they must also be aware of their surroundings and each other’s positions in order to avoid getting overwhelmed by the demons.
Setting
Foul Play is set entirely on the grand spectacle of a theatre stage. This setting gives the game a unique and visually striking look, and it also adds to the game’s sense of theatricality.
The theatre stage is filled with props and scenery that can be used to the player’s advantage. For example, players can use chairs to bash demons, or they can swing from chandeliers to avoid their attacks.
The game’s setting also plays into the game’s focus on performance. Players are encouraged to perform stylish takedowns and reversals in order to earn the applause of the audience.
Characters
Foul Play features a cast of colorful and charismatic characters. The main character, Baron Dashforth, is a daemon-hunter with a penchant for the dramatic. He is joined by a cast of supporting characters, including a sassy witch named Scamp and a strongman named Bruiser.
Each character has their own unique abilities and playstyles. Baron Dashforth is a well-rounded fighter who can deal with both single targets and groups of enemies. Scamp is a ranged fighter who can deal heavy damage from afar. Bruiser is a close-range fighter who can deal devastating blows to single targets.
Graphics and Sound
Foul Play’s graphics are colorful and stylized, and they perfectly capture the game’s theatrical setting. The game’s sound design is also top-notch, with a catchy soundtrack and excellent voice acting.
Overall
Foul Play is a unique and refreshing side-scrolling co-op brawler. Its focus on performance and its unique setting make it a standout in the genre. Whether you’re playing solo or with a friend, Foul Play is sure to provide hours of entertainment.
Score: 8/10
Pros:
- Unique and visually striking setting
- Focus on performance adds a layer of strategy to the gameplay
- Colorful and charismatic cast of characters
- Excellent graphics and sound design
Cons:
- Can be repetitive at times
- Some of the levels can be frustratingly difficult
Review Score
8/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
