The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles have been a staple in the world of video games for decades, with classic beat ’em up titles like the 1989 arcade game and Turtles in Time holding a special place in fans’ hearts. However, the genre has evolved over time, and modern gamers are looking for more depth and complexity in their gameplay. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate aims to bridge the gap between classic hack-and-slash action and modern gaming trends, drawing inspiration from popular titles like Hades to create a new experience for players.
In Splintered Fate, players take on the role of one of the four iconic turtle brothers as they embark on a quest to rescue Master Splinter from a mysterious captor. Each turtle has unique abilities, combos, and tools that cater to different playstyles, allowing players to experiment and find the right fit for their preferences. Whether you prefer Leonardo’s balanced approach, Donatello’s long-range attacks, Michelangelo’s fast-paced nunchuck skills, or Raphael’s high damage output, there is a playstyle for everyone to enjoy.
The gameplay in Splintered Fate revolves around embarking on runs through various rooms filled with enemies, each offering a different challenge to overcome. Players can choose upgrades and enhancements at the start of each run, adding a layer of strategy to their gameplay. Combat feels satisfying and impactful, with each attack contributing to a successful and engaging strategy. Elite enemies and bosses provide additional challenges, keeping players on their toes and testing their skills.
While the core gameplay loop is enjoyable, Splintered Fate does suffer from some repetition issues. Players may find themselves facing the same enemies and bosses repeatedly, which can lead to a sense of monotony over time. The introduction of new boss variants and challenges helps alleviate this to some extent, but the overall structure of the game remains unchanged. Co-op mode offers a fresh perspective by allowing players to team up and combine their abilities, adding a new layer of depth to the gameplay.
Progression in Splintered Fate is handled well, with permanent upgrades and currencies that allow players to improve their skills and character attributes over time. However, the game’s reliance on multiple currencies and complex upgrade systems can be overwhelming and confusing for some players. Managing different currencies and requirements for upgrades may detract from the overall experience, highlighting the need for a more streamlined progression system.
Despite its flaws, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate successfully captures the essence of the beloved franchise while introducing new elements to keep players engaged. The game’s blend of classic hack-and-slash action with modern roguelike mechanics offers a unique and enjoyable experience for fans of the series. While repetition and complexity issues may hinder the overall experience, the game’s spirit and charm shine through, making it a worthwhile addition to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles gaming legacy.
