Punch Monkey Revenge Review

I love it when a game is deliberately blunt. It doesn’t hide behind secrets, and its intentions are clear from the off. Punch Monkey Revenge is one such OTT game that is unashamedly brash. Furthermore, it is intentionally simple and humorous. This cutting approach may not be for everyone, but I liked the silly action and the easy-to-follow mechanics.

This side-scrolling platforming game was developed by GamePoc Ltd. It is a single-player title that is an Xbox Play Anywhere game. Furthermore, it mixes cinematic slow-motion combat with slick and fast platforming moments. The result is an unusual title that offers some fun and surprising elements for veteran and newbie gamers.

Punch Monkey Revenge and its ridiculous plot.

The plot for Punch Monkey Revenge is ridiculous. However, it isn’t more OTT than the rest of the action. Instead, it beautifully sets the scene as you traverse an array of unique and manic environments. Furthermore, there are interesting puzzles, familiar platforming elements, and a host of combat mechanics to master.

You play the role of a young monkey who adores his stuffed toy. Mr Banana has been stolen by the school bullies, and the juvenile monkey cracks. Instead of accepting his fate, the primate decides to fight back. His quest takes him across an array of expected locations as he tackles his foes and reclaims his much-loved toy.

Fun mechanics.

If you want a serious and story-rich experience, Punch Monkey Revenge won’t be for you. Instead, if you want something fun, stylish, and a little out there, this will tick those boxes. With an array of simple combat mechanics, a banana gun to take down your foes, and destructible environments, this game offers plenty of lighthearted and joyful elements.

You’ll have to traverse chasms, overcome boxes, climb gaps, and avoid your enemy’s deadly gaze. Furthermore, you must master an array of different items to defeat whatever you face. Alongside this, there are some nice combat mechanics to make things seem a little gritty. This is complemented by the slow-motion action to add drama and precision to each encounter.

The combination of platforming elements and fighting was nicely considered. Each location has a useful amount of cover to hide behind. Most of it is destructible, so you can choose to hide or fight your way to victory. Alternatively, slowing time and leaping through the air is a viable choice if you want to surprise your foes.

Punch Monkey Revenge is nice to look at.

Visually, Punch Monkey Revenge does a great job of keeping you focused. The vibrant colours, clean lines, and impressive animation work well with the story and the cheeky ideas. The slow-motion is smooth, and planning your next move was a walk in the park. Furthermore, I like the level design and the combination of side-scrolling and vertical exploration. The audio is upbeat, dramatic, and pretty silly. This works well with the theme and wasn’t too overbearing. Although the sound effects were basic, I liked the design choice and its deliberate design.

The opening moments do a great job of explaining the core mechanics and the control layout. This tutorial approach was easy to follow, and I liked how it introduced everything without being demanding. The button layout is easy to follow, and most gamers will master the simple and responsive controls. Replay value and longevity are focused towards completionists. If you want to unlock everything and perfect every combo, you’ll need to invest around 10 hours. If you’re not too bothered by achievements, you’ll invest around 6 to 7 hours getting through every stage.

Punch Monkey Revenge is a fun indie title.

Punch Monkey Revenge is a fun and silly indie title that doesn’t take itself too seriously. I enjoyed the cinematic and the interesting stage design. Furthermore, the platforming and action elements were enjoyable. Although it isn’t as in-depth as some of its peers, it is great to play. Accordingly, I recommend grabbing a copy from the Xbox store!