M.A.D. Cows Review

M.A.D. Cows puts players in the proverbial hooves of an angry cow looking for revenge. For centuries, the aliens mutilated cattle without any consequences. It’s up to a nameless cow to pick up the slack, a few weapons and get some payback on the aliens.

M.A.D. Cows is a 2D action platformer where players have to complete 15 levels; each with a mini labyrinth like design where you need to collect coins, money and rings. Obviously, you’ll be able to kill all aliens in your way. You’ll also need to find and activate switches in order to progress further in each level. You can also find hearts to replenish your health.

Additionally, each level will have a unique objectives to complete. Some of them includes rescuing a set amount of cats, raccoons or scientists. Or you’ll be required to kill a specific amount of unique alien type. With the money collected you’ll be able to purchase one of three weapons at vending machines: rapid machine gun, double bullets or a plasma gun. Each has a limited use, so shoot wisely.

The game looks great as a 2D pixelated platformer. As mentioned, each level is designed like a mini labyrinth where you need to explore to find every switch and find as much money as possible. The color palette is unfortunately limited as there’s about 2-3 different environments. On the audio side of things, this is one of the most enjoyable soundtracks I’ve heard in an indie game. But like the environments, there isn’t much variety in tunes.

There isn’t anything inherently wrong with M.A.D. Cows. It’s an indie, so it won’t take hours to complete, but my gripe with it is the lack of boss fights. The game as a whole is very easy, so a boss fight after every five level or at least a final boss would’ve added a layer of challenge.

M.A.D. Cows is one of the best and more enjoyable 2D indie platformer I’ve had the chance to play. It’s easy to pick up and play, limited challenge, and interesting level design with a very easy, and straight forward 1000Gs. It does lack in term of proper challenge and variety. The lack of boss fights is a missing opportunity to mix things up. If you’re looking for a fun, straight forward indie game, M.A.D. Cows is a must play.