Rocko's Quest

Seven or eight years ago, a game like Rocko's Quest_ would have been cutting edge or at least comparable to other games released at that time. However, when compared to games released recently or even in the past couple of years, Rocko's Quest clearly leaves much to be desired in almost every aspect of the game. Obviously Big City Games is aware of the many deficiencies associated with Rocko's Quest as it's listed for $20, but even as a budget title, the game comes off as extremely aged at best.

Rocko's Quest follows a basic and worn out story line consisting of Rocko's girlfriend being abducted by an evil horde and his attempt to retrieve her. On his adventure, he of course runs into numerous enemies and navigates obstacles associated with simple platform games such as jumping over ravines or walking over thin planks of wood. The enemies generally won't cause much concern however as like you they are limited to very simple attacking options. Mostly it consists of swinging a weapon along one or two paths that is highly predictable and avoidable. Because you are also limited to the same type of attack and enemies seem to have slow reflexes, a strategy of running in, slashing twice, pulling back, and repeat will take care of almost any enemy.

Although the story line and gameplay is basic and straightforward, the graphics are where Rocko's Quest really misses the boat. It's hard to find any area that doesn't appear dated or error prone. There are backdrops of trees or other environments that are clearly 2D, the textures are generally poor at best, clipping is a constant issue, and even the cut scenes are highly pixilated and sometimes difficult to comprehend. Rocko has his own odd problems however and looks more like a puppet on strings. In addition, for some unknown reason he also flashes every second or so showing what appears to be his skeleton.

From a basic story line, to a highly simplistic control system, to graphics that really appear dated, there isn't much here justifying even its $20 cost. Save your money.