Max Mustard
Review
A Whimsical VR Adventure
by William Thompson
reviewed on PC
Up, up and away
Max Mustard is a delightful VR platformer that successfully blends nostalgia with innovative gameplay. Developed by Toast Interactive, this title offers a charming and accessible experience for both seasoned VR gamers and newcomers alike.
The game's core gameplay loop is straightforward: guide Max, a spunky young adventurer, through a series of vibrant levels, collecting coins and rescuing Mudpups. While the premise may seem simple, the execution is where Max Mustard truly shines. Max is equipped with a special rocket boot that has an Astro Boy vibe about it, and it is with this boot that she can traverse the levels. The game's controls are intuitive, making it easy to navigate the colourful landscapes and overcome obstacles. I spent most of the game using just two buttons plus the left thumbstick for moving Max, and as such, this is ideal for younger gamers.
Charming setting
One of the game's standout features is its stunning visuals. The cartoon style world of Max Mustard is a feast for the eyes, with lush, vibrant environments and adorable character designs. Flowers such as the Bird of Paradise and Sturt's Desert Pea appear throughout, giving the game an Australian feel (yes, the Bird of Paradise is an African plant, but it is plentiful in Australia). The developers have clearly drawn inspiration from classic platformers like Crash Bandicoot, resulting in a nostalgic aesthetic that’s both familiar and fresh. The VR experience elevates the visuals, immersing players in a world of wonder and whimsy.
However, while the VR aspect enhances the game's visual appeal, the game plays out mostly like a traditional 3D platformer. The camera follows Max around for the most part, but at times the VR visuals do make it more difficult, as the camera angle can make it harder to determine where Max is walking or landing with her rocket boot.
Platforming obstacles
The level design is another highlight of Max Mustard. Each level is a carefully crafted puzzle, filled with creative challenges that will often require gamers to stray from the main path to find hidden secrets. Indeed, on several levels, I missed a Mudpup hiding behind a wall or on a ledge that required me to repeat the level so that I could collect all three. But doing so is far from a chore, with each of the levels having checkpoints throughout, ensuring that you're not having to repeat large sections if you succumb to one of the many dangers.
The game doesn't offer a wide range of enemies, but it is largely the environmental dangers that provide the difficulty. Moving platforms, spikes, giant circular saws, and platforms that change based on the beat of the background tunes, all provide for some tough obstacles. Boss battles (there is one at the end of each map) also provide for a challenge, but once players get the patterns, they can be comfortably overcome.
The inclusion of mini-games, such as arcade-style shooting challenges, adds variety to the gameplay and provides opportunities to earn extra coins. These coins, as well as those earned in each level, can be spent to purchase upgrades and new skills. Different attack moves, or the ability to fly further with Max’s rocket boot will help players progress through the levels. The game can certainly be completed without these upgrades, but they certainly make it easier.
Players with motion sickness may want to approach the experience with caution, as certain sections - particularly those involving significant vertical drops - may induce discomfort. However, the developers have minimised these instances, making the game enjoyable for most players. And the game is highly accessible as it can be played seated, so those with movement disability can still play. Indeed, there is limited movement required, as I found that the most I moved was during the shooting gallery style mini-games when I moved the controller from right to left.
In terms of story, Max Mustard takes a more subtle approach. The narrative unfolds through letters scattered throughout the levels, offering glimpses into the world and its inhabitants. While the story isn’t groundbreaking, it provides a charming backdrop to the main gameplay.
Classic platforming in a VR environment
Ultimately, Max Mustard is a delightful VR platformer that successfully captures the spirit of classic platformers. Its beautiful visuals, intuitive controls, and engaging level design make it a must-play for VR enthusiasts. While the VR experience can sometimes be a double-edged sword, the game's strengths far outweigh its limitations. If you're looking for a fun and accessible VR adventure, Max Mustard is a fantastic choice.
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8.7
fun score
Pros
Gorgeous cartoon visuals, accessible game
Cons
Some minor camera angle issues
