Strider

🎮 Steam ⏳ 16 hours ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

Stylish Ninja Reboot #

Strider is a fast-paced 2.5D action-platformer reboot of the classic arcade/NES series, developed by Double Helix Games. I got to admit, this was my first Strider game and I loved it, though not enough to make me want to play the older titles, as much as I am a retro gaming fan. The MC is called Hiryu, a futuristic ninja slicing through a dystopian city controlled by the villainous Grandmaster Meio. The game excels in fluid combat, responsive controls, and stylish traversal, blending hack-and-slash intensity with Metroidvania-inspired exploration.

Short, Sharp Action #

The bossfights are a standout to me, very cinematic, impressive and challenging. While the story is minimal and the environments can feel repetitive, the crisp visuals, tight gameplay loop, and satisfying upgrades make it a solid modern reinterpretation of a cult classic. Overall this makes up for a more interesting game for more modern audiences, and in my opinion, it’s modernization was very well made and polished. It’s short but sharp, ideal for fans of action and retro reboots, and action-platformers in general, one of the best that I’ve played of this genre.

Pacing and Progression Trade-offs #

However, it’s worth noting that the game’s commitment to breakneck pacing and non-linear exploration comes with a few trade-offs. The progression, while enjoyable, can occasionally lead to moments of directionless wandering as you backtrack through the somewhat samey industrial and prison blocks of the world map. The level design, though functionally sound for showcasing the acrobatics, lacks the memorable architectural variety or atmospheric depth found in genre benchmarks. These elements don’t significantly detract from the core fun, but they prevent the experience from reaching true greatness.

A Pure Action Power Fantasy #

Overall, this title succeeds precisely where it matters most, delivering a potent power fantasy with impeccable kinetic flow. The thrill of seamlessly dashing up walls, deflecting a hail of gunfire with a well-timed slash, and dismantling a towering mechanized boss never diminishes. It is a game engineered for pure, undiluted action, smartly condensed into a package that respects your time. While it may not have the narrative weight or world-building longevity of some peers, its focused execution and polished modernization stand as a testament to how revitalize a classic concept with confidence and flair.