The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are experiencing a video game revival, with recent titles showcasing various styles, including the Retro compilation "Cowabunga Collection" and the arcade-style "Shredder’s Revenge." Now, the new game "TMNT: Tactical Takedown" introduces a grid-based tactics format that combines nostalgia with fresh gameplay mechanics.
Set after the original series, both Splinter and Shredder are gone, leading to tension among the turtles as they cope with their losses. This setting provides an interesting backdrop for the game, with a visual style reminiscent of Saturday morning cartoons, creating a blend of nostalgia and new storytelling.
In "Tactical Takedown," players control one turtle at a time to confront the Foot Clan, focusing on prioritization and crowd control during tactical battles. Each turtle has unique abilities that reflect their personalities, whether it’s Michelangelo’s agility or Raphael’s aggressive combat style. Stages are tailored to specific turtles and evolve during gameplay, which keeps the action dynamic and engaging.
While the gameplay is enjoyable, it sometimes feels limited in scope. The turtles don’t team up in a way that leverages their combined strengths, often leading to a feeling of playing as a single character with increased abilities rather than utilizing the nuances of each turtle’s capabilities. This limitation is highlighted during moments when they should be working in unison, but instead, players continue as an individual character.
The game also introduces a shop for extra abilities, though it feels somewhat neglected in the campaign menu, making it easy to overlook. Despite these shortcomings, "TMNT: Tactical Takedown" succeeds in delivering a heartfelt story about brotherhood and loss, encapsulated in the turtles’ struggle to reconnect amid challenges.
Overall, while "Tactical Takedown" presents a solid starting point for further TMNT adventures, it remains clear that the potential for more intricate and rewarding gameplay is just beyond its current reach. Fans of the turtles will find much to enjoy, but many will hope for a sequel that fully realizes the franchise’s potential in the gaming space.
