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[h2]Shoulders of Giants Ultimate Review[/h2]
[table]
[th][h2]Factors[/h2][/th]
[th][h2]Rating[/h2][/th]
[th][h2]Description[/h2][/th]
[tr]
[td]🎮Gameplay[/td]
[td]8.5[/td]
[td]A fresh and exciting roguelike with smooth dual-character mechanics, dynamic co-op, and satisfying progression. The mix of melee and ranged combat adds a tactical edge that makes each run feel unique.[/td]
[/tr]
[tr]
[td]📷Graphics[/td]
[td]7[/td]
[td]Vibrant but not universally appealing, with an art style that may divide opinions. The environments can feel a bit repetitive and lack the detail seen in other games of the genre.[/td]
[/tr]
[tr]
[td]🎧Narration/Audio[/td]
[td]7[/td]
[td]The soundtrack is energetic and matches the game’s fast pace. Overall, the sound effects are solid but not memorable.[/td]
[/tr]
[tr]
[td]😮Variety[/td]
[td]8[/td]
[td]A wide variety of abilities, planets and power-ups keep things interesting.[/td]
[/tr]
[tr]
[td]🎰Re-playability[/td]
[td]9[/td]
[td]Thanks to randomised levels, a large array of upgrades, and strong co-op play, the game has significant replay value.[/td]
[/tr]
[tr]
[td]💲Price[/td]
[td]7[/td]
[td]The price is a bit on the higher end. I would suggest waiting for the sale. [/td]
[/tr]
[/table]
[h1][b]📝Story/Plot without spoilers:[/b][/h1]
In Shoulders of Giants, you control a mech and a frog working together to save the universe from the forces of Entropy. The story centers around cleansing corrupted planets and restoring light to the galaxy. While the plot is minimal and more of a backdrop for the action, the narrative’s charm comes from its quirky characters, including a psychic Owl guide who adds flavor to the lore. It’s a simple yet serviceable setup that gives the gameplay some context, though it lacks the depth seen in more story-driven games.
[h1][b]🎮Gameplay:[/b][/h1]
[b]Dual-Control Combat System[/b]
The game’s defining feature is its unique dual-character control system, where you simultaneously manage both a frog and a mech. The frog is quick, agile, and armed with a range of firearms, making it ideal for picking off enemies from a distance. Meanwhile, the mech is a hulking powerhouse, equipped with a variety of melee weapons like swords and hammers. The interplay between these two characters is fluid and engaging. You can switch between the frog and mech on the fly, using the frog for precision and ranged attacks while the mech deals massive melee damage. This dual approach makes every battle feel dynamic, as you constantly balance the different strengths and weaknesses of each character.
[b]Roguelike Progression and Randomised Levels-[/b]
As with many roguelikes, Shoulders of Giants is all about growth and progression through randomised stages. You’ll hop from planet to planet, each one featuring different layouts, hazards, and enemy types. As you defeat enemies, you gain experience and unlock new abilities for both the frog and the mech. This loop of growing stronger and taking on tougher challenges is addictive. Levels are procedurally generated, meaning that no two runs are the same, and each playthrough offers a fresh set of challenges. The game also features a meta-progression system that lets you upgrade your characters’ base stats and unlock new weapons and abilities that carry over between runs. Plus you will also get side quests along with the main story.
[b]Abilities, Loadouts, and Customisation-[/b]
Where Shoulders of Giants excels is in its ability system. Each character has access to a range of unique abilities that can be mixed and matched to suit your preferred playstyle. For example, the frog can use rapid-fire weapons for quick, precise shots or equip grenades for area control. The mech, on the other hand, has options for powerful melee attacks, shields, or crowd-control abilities. The customisation isn’t as deep as some of the genre’s heavyweights, but there’s enough variety to keep things interesting. The GERM Core system adds another layer of complexity, letting you tailor your build even further by adding perks and stat bonuses.
[b]The Heat System and Difficulty-[/b]
Planets come in different difficulty tiers, represented by the amount of heat gain. Higher-heat planets are more dangerous, with tougher enemies and more environmental hazards, but they also offer greater rewards. Players can choose to tackle these higher-risk planets for the chance to earn better loot. Additionally, you also get the option to play the game with 2 additions, owl’s protection and hardcode mode. Owl’s protection is for players seeking a mode casual experience. You will get reduced incoming damage and will get an extra boost when you lose multiple planets in a row. On the other hand, hardcore mode is for players who really wanna challenge themselves. Once you die, your save will be deleted and you will have to start fresh.
[b]Co-op and Multiplayer Dynamics-[/b]
The game supports both local and online co-op, allowing players to team up and take on planets together. The two-player mode lets one player control the frog while the other pilots the mech, leading to intense teamwork and communication. There’s also a four-player mode, where each player controls their own frog-mech duo, adding even more chaos to the battlefield. While the four-player mode can feel a bit overwhelming, the core mechanics translate well, making it a great experience whether you’re playing solo or with friends.
[b]Combat Flow and Tactical Elements-[/b]
The combat is fast-paced and satisfying, with a focus on tactical movement and ability management. Both the frog and the mech have dashes, grapples, and other mobility options that let you dodge incoming attacks and reposition quickly. Mastering these movement tools is crucial, especially on higher-difficulty planets where enemies swarm you relentlessly. The game’s combo system, which lets you chain together attacks from both characters, feels fluid and rewarding, making it a joy to pull off complex maneuvers.
[h1][b]📷Graphics:[/b][/h1]
Visually, Shoulders of Giants is a mixed bag. It’s bright, vibrant, and full of explosive colors that match the game’s high-energy vibe. The character designs are charming, especially the frog-mech duo, but the environments sometimes lack depth and detail. The levels can feel a bit repetitive visually, though the different color palettes and effects do help to differentiate between planets. Overall, the game’s art style won’t be for everyone—it’s bold and cartoonish, which may not appeal to those looking for a more refined aesthetic.
[h1][b]📝Main Pros and Cons:[/b][/h1]
[b]Pros-[/b]
[list]
[*]Unique dual-character control system keeps combat fresh and engaging.
[*]Exciting co-op modes that make the game perfect for playing with friends.
[*]A variety of weapons, abilities, and power-ups to experiment with.
[*]Satisfying, fast-paced combat that blends melee and ranged attacks.
[/list]
[b]Cons-[/b]
[list]
[*]Art style and environment design may not appeal to everyone.
[*]Levels, though randomised, can become repetitive after long sessions.
[/list]
[h1][b]😇Honest Rating:[/b][/h1]
Overall, Shoulders of Giants is a fresh and fun take on the roguelike genre, with its unique dual-character control system, satisfying combat, and engaging co-op gameplay. The graphics and narrative might not blow you away, but the core gameplay loop is addictive, and the randomised levels ensure you’ll keep coming back for more. It’s a game that shines brightest when played with friends but still offers plenty for solo players.
[b][u]Note[/u][/b]
I saw many [b]green[/b] leaves outdoors today, I wonder when they will change colours?..
Rating: 8/10
Emoting on dead monsters.
