The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles franchise has delighted fans for decades with its mix of action, humor, and iconic characters. The latest entry, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate, takes the series in a bold new direction, blending the fun and fast-paced combat of the turtles with the roguelike mechanics that have gained popularity in recent years. The result is a game that’s as addictive as it is challenging, offering a fresh and engaging experience for both solo and multiplayer fans.
A Roguelike Twist on TMNT
At its core, Splintered Fate is a roguelike action game where you control one of the four Ninja Turtles — Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael, or Michelangelo — as they battle through waves of enemies to rescue Master Splinter from the evil Foot Clan. Each turtle brings unique abilities and playstyles, which gives the game excellent replay value. Whether you’re dealing damage at a distance as Donatello or using Raphael’s critical-hit combos in close combat, each character feels distinct.
The game’s structure closely follows the roguelike formula, with players facing randomized levels, collecting upgrades, and encountering tough bosses. The progression is addictive: as you progress, you unlock new abilities and perks that carry over between runs, making each attempt feel more rewarding. This system ensures that no two runs are ever the same.
Challenging and Addictive Gameplay
While Splintered Fate is an action-packed experience, it doesn’t shy away from difficulty. It’s a game that requires strategy and quick thinking. Players need to make snap decisions, like choosing which enemies to focus on and when to use their powerful tools or charged attacks. The fast-paced combat can be overwhelming, especially in multiplayer sessions where up to four players can join in. However, the chaos is part of the fun, with hectic battles that never get boring.
The co-op experience is a highlight. You can team up with friends locally or online, though the online matchmaking system is a bit unconventional, requiring room codes for players to join each other. This limits spontaneous matchmaking but also strengthens the sense of community by connecting players who know each other. The game also shines with its humor and excellent voice acting, bringing the characters’ personalities to life with witty dialogue and dynamic interactions.
Steam Community Reactions
The reception on Steam has been overwhelmingly positive, with players praising the game’s balance of action and roguelike elements. Reviews highlight the charm of the turtle characters and the strategic depth of the gameplay. However, some players note the occasional frame-rate dips, especially during intense multiplayer sessions. The lack of a more robust online matchmaking system has also been a point of criticism, though it doesn’t detract significantly from the experience.
Conclusion: Should You Play It?
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate is a must-try for fans of the franchise and roguelike games alike. Its combination of addictive progression, cooperative play, and beloved characters creates a memorable experience that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re playing solo or teaming up with friends, this game offers hours of chaotic fun. The playful yet challenging combat, variety of upgrades, and exciting co-op mode make it one of the most enjoyable TMNT games in recent years.
If you’re looking for something fresh in the world of Ninja Turtles or a fun new roguelike to dive into, Splintered Fate is the game you’ve been waiting for.
Go Go Ninja Turtles! Oh wait…