Developer: Lillymo Games
Publisher: Lillymo Games
ReleaseDate: 3rd June 2022
Platforms: PlayStation (cross-buy), Xbox, Switch & PC
Reviewed on: PlayStation 5
* Code provided by the publisher *
I missed the original Perils of Baking when it was released back in 2018. I was actually only made aware of it as the announcement of the “super” version hit the newswire. So I bided my time and made sure to get my name down for the review early. 2D platformers are timeless. If you are a fan of the genre and enjoy pixel art, they age immaculately, and the best part is that talented developers can come along and make a game that feels both fresh and new, while still hotboxing you with nostalgia. That’s Super Perils of Baking.
The story, which I’m told has been expanded in this new version, follows a talented student-baker who is compelled to stop his brother, who has been enchanted by a cursed baking hat from their school’s basement which brings food to life. The story is well set up with a really cool pixel art storybook outlining all the key points leading up to our protagonist’s journey. I really enjoyed how there was a well laid out and compelling story there for you if you wanted it, but it also never got in the way for fans who just wanted a pure gameplay experience.
There is no question that the game has taken inspiration from the likes of Mario and Donkey Kong. There are enemy traits that you will instantly recognise from these games, but the superb 16-bit retro design of each would-be attacker makes them unique. Take the waffle for instance – its head is “significantly weakened” by its condiments, making that the most obvious point of attack. That’s just as well too because to start with you only have the option of jumping… and running faster so you can jump a little further.
You begin with just one of three possible hearts. Take damage at this point and you can scoot your arse back to the start of the level, or popcorn stand if you have reached a checkpoint. Collecting cookies (which take the place of Mario coins) and dispatching enemies will slowly raise your heart bar, whereas finding doughnuts and chocolate accelerates the process. Filling it up and receiving a second heart will mean you can withstand one enemy shot. Think of it as a Mario mushroom, except instead of getting bigger, the change is represented by your character growing a beard like a real man. Reach the lofty heights of filling up the meter for a third heart and you get a chef’s hat. This allows you to chuck a whisk or brandish a rolling pin at your foes. One mistake though and you are back to jumping bean status.
If this sounds tough it’s because it is. Don’t let the charming art style and great retro soundtrack fool you. This game can be punishingly difficult at times. Precise platforming and sharp reflexes to deal with often times multiple enemies at once are required. There are various level types as well, which vary in terms of enjoyment. As well as the 2D platforming I really enjoyed the minecart levels, which are fast and frantic fun where slowing down is not an option!
The underwater escapades will resonate with those who enjoyed them during the wee red plumber’s outings, however, the balloon levels are likely to be like marmite. The idea here is to float through the stages while gripping a balloon named Larry. Patience is definitely key here and I found myself sighing at first when one would pop up. I did end up growing to enjoy them though and they offered a nice twist on the tried and tested formula of the other speciality levels.
There are collectables to grab as well. Each level has four letters to collect, spelling out B-A-K-E. These are often tucked away in hard to reach spots and offer a great extra challenge. Speaking of challenges, there are also secret levels to unlock which I’ll be honest, I’ve yet to complete due to their difficulty. They are however a superb addition for those looking to push themselves.
Trophies aren’t something I seek out in games, but I did want to give them more attention than I normally would after hearing that studio co-owner Colin Moriarty, a lover of the digital trinkets, had looked outside of the box with the lists. You see, for the first time, a game available day and date on PlayStation 4 and 5 comes with completely distinct lists. The PS4 version is easier to attain, with for example a gold trophy for attaining a flawless run in any 20 levels as appose to the PS5 version which demands perfection in all 55 levels. If you are hunting trophies on the PS5 version of the game you’ll need some serious platforming chops.
When you launch Super Perils of Baking there is a message from the team;
You worked hard to earn your money.
Your time is precious.
Thank you for buying and playing our game.
You can feel the studio respecting your time any time you put the game on. It’s tough and rewarding but maybe most importantly it remains fair throughout. The beautiful 16-bit visuals, catchy soundtrack and tight platforming are all wrapped up in a superb £9.49 price point. I reviewed this game on PlayStation, but I absolutely intend to pick it up on the Nintendo Switch in the coming weeks as it will be so much fun to chip away at the 100% completion on a handheld. Pour one out for the PlayStation Vita.
-Jock 🔥