Unearth a Treasure Trove of Must-Play Old School RPGs this August
Don't miss out on WrestleQuest, an indie RPG gem that captures the charm of classic 16-bit RPGs With its unique combat system and captivating setting, it's a must-play for old school RPG fans
Highlights
WrestleQuest is an indie RPG that combines classic RPG gameplay with a love for professional wrestling, specifically the golden era of American wrestling in the 1980s.
The combat mechanics in WrestleQuest follow a turn-based structure, where well-timed button presses amplify the damage inflicted upon opponents, reminiscent of the beloved Paper Mario series. This engaging and light-hearted combat system undoubtedly stands as one of the game's most enjoyable features.
Within the realm of WrestleQuest, a whimsical and comedic story unfolds, immersing players in a world of toys that pays homage to the iconic characters and toy lines that dominated 1980s pop culture. The game's writing exhibits a delightful tongue-in-cheek approach, fully aware of its own existence and demonstrating a genuine fondness and respect for the toys and games of that era.
Indie game enthusiasts who have been disheartened by the changes made in some of their favorite long-running RPG series now have the option to explore the indie scene, where they can find games that pay homage to the genre's classics. Sabotage Studios is set to release their highly anticipated game, Sea of Stars, which draws inspiration from the beloved Chrono Trigger. However, one week prior to that release, there is another indie-developed RPG that fans of the genre absolutely should not overlook: WrestleQuest by Mega Cat Studios.
Similar to the successful blend of RPG and sports in Golf Story, WrestleQuest seamlessly combines the classic RPG gameplay of titles like Chrono Trigger and Final Fantasy 6 with an evident passion for professional wrestling. The game transports players to the glory days of American professional wrestling in the 1980s, a time when iconic figures such as "Macho Man" Randy Savage, Hulk Hogan, and the Ultimate Warrior captivated millions of fans. With a strong grasp of the core elements that make RPGs exceptional and a genuine love for its setting, source material, and overall aesthetic, WrestleQuest is an indie RPG that deserves the attention of fans.
WrestleQuest's Combat Draws Inspiration From Another Classic RPG
The visual presentation of WrestleQuest is reminiscent of Square Enix's best output on the SNES. However, the combat mechanics are inspired by a beloved RPG series. In this game, encounters are turn-based and do not follow the style of WWE 2K23 matches. Instead, players choose from a set of basic commands like Strikes, Gimmicks, and Taunts. After selecting a menu command, players can enhance the damage dealt to opponents by executing timed button presses, similar to the mechanics seen in the Paper Mario series.
The inclusion of timed button presses in WrestleQuest adds a dynamic element to turn-based encounters, making them more engaging. The combat animations are exaggerated and humorous, fitting with the wrestling-themed gameplay. In a genre where leveling up and increasing player stats through battles is common, having an engaging combat system is a significant advantage. WrestleQuest even features a Hype Meter suited to its setting, where entertaining the crowd boosts performance in combat. All these elements work together harmoniously to create one of the most enjoyable and light-hearted combat systems in recent RPGs, whether they are indie or not.
The Setting and Presentation of WrestleQuest Give it an Undeniable Charm
Any RPG worth its salt is ultimately judged by its ability to tell a captivating story, regardless of its mechanics. Fortunately, WrestleQuest delivers a lighthearted and humorous tale that captures the same tone as Golf Story. The game doesn't take itself too seriously, yet still pays homage to its source material. Moreover, WrestleQuest sets its narrative within a world of toys, tailor-made for those who grew up in the 1980s and 1990s. This allows for the incorporation of iconic characters and toy lines from that era, adding to the nostalgia factor.
Players will traverse a sprawling world map, divided into various biomes, encountering cities and towns along the way. Main quests guide the player's progress, while numerous NPCs offer side quests for Randy "Muchacho Man" Santos to undertake. The writing cleverly balances playful humor and self-awareness, adding to the overall charm of the game. One of the standout aspects of WrestleQuest is the evident care and appreciation the developers have for the toys and games of yesteryears. While it may be different from Sea of Stars, WrestleQuest is equally deserving of any RPG fan's time.
WrestleQuest is available now for Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
