Revenge Of The Savage Planet Review – A Goo(d) Time

Key Takeaways:

• “Revenge of the Savage Planet” significantly expands on the original game with four new alien planets to explore.
• The game blends multiple genres, including action-adventure, metroidvania, puzzle-solving, survival-crafting, and decorating elements.
• The narrative reflects the developers’ real-life experiences with corporate acquisition and shutdown.
• While combat remains a weakness, the sequel improves on almost every other aspect compared to its predecessor.
• The development team formed Raccoon Logic and reclaimed their IP after Google’s shutdown of Typhoon Studios.

A Galactic Expansion

“Revenge of the Savage Planet” takes players on an interstellar journey, amplifying the zany charm of its predecessor with an expanded universe. This sequel introduces four lush alien planets teeming with exotic flora and fauna. Players are invited to catalog every plant and creature as they unveil the game’s many secrets. As noted, “This follow-up… amplifies its predecessor’s zaniness and scale.”

Genre-Blending Gameplay

The game is an impressive amalgamation of genres. Predominantly a pulpy sci-fi action-adventure with metroidvania stylings, it also incorporates puzzle-solving, survival-crafting, creature-capturing, and even Animal Crossing-style decorating. This eclectic mix ensures that players experience a diverse range of gameplay elements that keep the adventure fresh and engaging.

Narrative Mirrors Reality

The storyline of “Revenge of the Savage Planet” is influenced by real-life events surrounding its creation. Typhoon Studios, the original developer of “Journey to the Savage Planet,” was acquired by Google in 2019, shortly before the game’s release. Intended to develop games for the Stadia platform, the studio was abruptly shuttered when Stadia failed. The team regrouped as Raccoon Logic, securing the Savage Planet intellectual property and channeling their experiences into the game’s narrative. “Revenge of the Savage Planet’s narrative is clearly influenced by the circumstances that led to the game’s creation.”

Corporate Incompetence and Revenge

Players assume the role of a nameless intergalactic colonizer who emerges from a 100-year cryosleep to find their former employer, Kindred Aerospace, acquired by Alta Interglobal. Adding insult to injury, they’ve been laid off along with all ex-Kindred staff. Marooned in an unfamiliar galaxy, the player’s ultimate goal is to exact revenge on their former employer and find a way home. This storyline resonates with themes of corporate incompetence and personal resilience.

Strengths and Shortcomings

While the sequel excels in many areas, combat remains a “glaring weakness.” Despite this, the game “improves upon the original by almost every other metric.” The enriched environments, expanded exploration, and genre-blending mechanics offer a compelling experience that outweighs its shortcomings in combat design.

A Testament to Resilience

“Revenge of the Savage Planet” stands as a testament to the developers’ perseverance and creativity. By weaving their real-life challenges into the game’s narrative, Raccoon Logic delivers a sequel that not only entertains but also offers a subtle critique of corporate dynamics. The game’s ability to marry diverse genres while expanding its universe makes it a noteworthy addition to the gaming landscape.