Review: “Romeo Is a Dead Man” Misses the Mark from Veteran Game Developer

Suda51, a renowned Japanese game developer, has made waves in the gaming industry since the release of Killer7 in 2005. His latest title, Romeo Is a Dead Man, marks his return after a decade-long hiatus. Despite the anticipation surrounding this new release, the game struggles to deliver a coherent experience.

Game Overview

Romeo Is a Dead Man follows the journey of its protagonist, Romeo Stargazer. After a dramatic intro featuring a cartoon where he is devoured by a zombie, he is revived by his eccentric scientist grandfather. Romeo is transformed into a “deadman,” a character caught between life and death. He is tasked with combating interstellar criminals alongside the FBI’s space-time police.

Gameplay Mechanics

The gameplay features a series of main missions that involve intense combat against zombies, referred to as “bastards.” Players utilize a lightsaber-like weapon to engage these enemies in combat. The action is reminiscent of Suda51’s earlier No More Heroes series, offering a mix of flashy moves and chaotic battles.

• Combat involves stylish attacks and colorful visual effects.
• Boss fights provide engaging and stylized challenges.
• The game world features a retro hub, depicted in charming 16-bit pixel art.

Visuals and Aesthetics

Visually, Romeo Is a Dead Man is a feast for the eyes, showcasing a variety of artistic styles. From animated cutscenes to polygonal designs reminiscent of the PlayStation 2 era, the game captivates players with its unique visual presentation. However, some may find the eclectic mix of styles disjointed rather than cohesive.

Technical Issues

Despite its artistic merits, the gameplay experience is hindered by technical flaws. On a PS5 Pro, players may encounter frame rate drops, particularly in crowded combat scenarios. These performance issues detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the game.

Narrative Evaluation

The story, often compared to the animated series Rick and Morty, remains convoluted and confusing throughout. The narrative lacks depth and cohesion, leaving many players puzzled even after completing the game. This disorganized storytelling feels aimless, resembling the ramblings of an intoxicated patron rather than a well-crafted narrative.

Conclusion

In summary, Romeo Is a Dead Man offers an interesting visual experience but fails to deliver a compelling gameplay or narrative structure. While it embodies Suda51’s anti-establishment ethos, the overall execution leaves much to be desired. Fans of Suda51 may appreciate the eccentric approach, but the game ultimately misses the mark.