Now that the PS5 has launched, a lot of players have been scrambling to get their hands on the newest system. Luckily, with the launch of PS5, players have also gotten to play the new game Bugsnax by Young Horses. This adventure game is more than just silly characters living in a world of food, however. As you jump into the game, get ready to enjoy some easy puzzling, and to expand your mind.
On the island of Bugsnax, there are villagers known as Grumpuses. Since you have received a mysterious video from Lizbert Megafig explaining that Bugsnax has half bug half snack creatures, you have been invited to report on this new discovery. Upon arrival Snaktooth island, you meet Filbo, the resident mayor, to find that Lizbert has gone missing. You get thrust into helping put the village back together and exploring the island.
One of the great things about this game is that it doesn’t take itself too seriously. The description just given explains this pretty well. The characters here are very well thought out and provide diverse personalities and never seem to shy away from important topics. These topics could be anything from climate change, the relationships and more. As you explore the island and do different tasks, the villagers really start to open up about life on Snaktooth.
The game mechanics overall, are pretty easy. Villagers want to each the Bugsnaxs, so you go and catch some. Sometimes figuring out how to catch these creatures can be a challenge, but none are too hard at all. Once a villager eats one of these, they become part snack. Their leg, arm, hand will turn into what they’ve just eaten. You are what you eat really makes a statement here.
With over 100 Bugsnax to catch, the tool system is actually pretty easy. Use traps that are put down to catch some creatures, a net and more that have a timing system. Sometimes you may need to use one creature against the other to help you with this. Don’t forget to use your camera to document each creature so you can understand their movement pattern. This is much like Pokémon but a lot easier to capture photos.
Bugsnax is a really cute game with its colorful villagers, funny combinations of creatures and wild names. Just don’t be fooled. This game has two endings and will depend on how well you do in the game with your villagers. If you are what you eat literally, then why are we eating these things? This is a huge question I’ve asked myself. Bugsnax is shrouded with mystery but is not a scary game that would be inappropriate. Definitely a fun game that doesn’t get super boring and keeps the story alive with the great characters and voices for sure.
8/10
Available on PS5, PS4 and PC.