Shantae Advance: Risky Revolution

After 20 years of anticipation, Shantae Advance: Risky Revolution is set to return fans to the 2D side-scrolling adventure they've been waiting for, but with a twist — literally. With a new world-rotating mechanic and the return of Shantae's signature moves, this game promises an exciting revival of the original Shantae saga, taking the action and exploration up a notch. Shantae's nemesis, Risky Boots, is back with a scheme to reshape the very landscape of Sequin Land, aiming to bring towns right to the coast for easy looting.

Whether you're a longtime fan or new to Shantae's adventures, this installment, set to be released in 2025, promises to capture the heart of what made the original game beloved while adding fresh layers of complexity and strategy.

What's Life Without Risk?

Shantae Advance: Risky Revolution's most exciting feature is the multilayered level design, where players switch between "Front Yard" and "Back Yard" areas to reveal new routes and puzzles. This twist is incredibly innovative for the Shantae franchise, as it builds on the classic side-scrolling action and adds a unique puzzle-solving element that will demand creativity and critical thinking. Each shift or rotation can reveal hidden areas, give access to collectibles, or offer alternate paths, making each level a layered experience.

Shantae's classic moves are also back, with the iconic hair-whip attack and belly-dance transformations that let her take on different creature forms like monkey, elephant, and crab. Each transformation has unique abilities that enable Shantae to access new areas or confront specific challenges.

Shantae Advance: Risky Revolution also includes fierce boss battles, which promise to test players' skills as they strategize to outsmart Risky Boots and her fearsome crew. From elaborate labyrinths to monster-filled crypts, each area seems designed to challenge Shantae in new ways, pushing players to master her various forms and abilities. And there's a multiplayer mode for the first time in a Shantae game! The 4-player versus mode will allow fans to compete with friends, adding a social and competitive layer that promises to extend the game's replay value.

With updated graphics that still honor the retro charm of the original Shantae series, the game's visuals are designed to evoke nostalgia while feeling fresh. Whether exploring ancient ruins or quaint towns, the visuals complement the game's magical world and add richness to its vibrant landscapes.

Your Revolution

For games like Metroid or Castlevania fans, Shantae Advance: Risky Revolution feels like a natural fit, satisfyingly blending platforming, exploration, and action. Where Metroid leans into sci-fi mystery and Castlevania into Gothic horror, Shantae brings a unique blend of humor, vibrant world design, and magical transformations. This game stands out for its playful charm and innovative mechanics, making Sequin Land feel alive and brimming with possibilities.

Round-Up - Pros & Cons

Pros:

• The unique multi-layered level design adds depth to the exploration
• Classic transformations return with expanded powers
• First-ever 4-player versus mode for competitive fun

Cons:

• Puzzle-solving may slow down the action for some players
• Learning to navigate the new mechanics could require a steep learning curve
• Limited release information may leave players eagerly waiting for more