Basureroes: Invasion the heroes and the main alien baddie. Published on: LadiesGamers

Basureroes: Invasion Review

Game: Basureroes: Invasion
Genre: Action, Platformer
System: Steam (Windows) (Also on Nintendo Switch, PS4&5 and Xbox)
Developer|Publisher: Javs Game Studios | JanduSoft
Controller Support: Yes
Steam Deck:
Playable
Price: US $ 12.49 | UK £ 10.99 | EU € 12,99
Release Date: January 30th, 2025

Review code provided with many thanks to JanduSoft.

Basureroes: Invasion: A Mega-Powered Nostalgic Treat

Basureroes: Invasion is an unapologetic love letter to classic 2D platformers, blending vibrant retro visuals, tight gameplay, and a tongue-in-cheek sense of humour. At first glance, it may seem like just another Mega Man-inspired romp, but this game manages to stand on its own thanks to clever character mechanics, fun level design, and a surprising amount of variety. It’s a game that doesn’t reinvent the wheel but gives it a fresh spin that’s undeniably entertaining.

Saving the World, One Hero at a Time

The story of Basureroes: Invasion is straightforward, acting more as a backdrop for the action than a central focus. Aliens have invaded Earth, and it’s up to the Basureroes, a team of quirky heroes, to take out the trash, literally and figuratively. Between levels, you’re treated to short, snappy cutscenes that inject a bit of humor and introduce both the villains and your support team. While the jokes are hit-or-miss, with some landing better than others, there’s an undeniable charm to the light-hearted tone.

The story won’t blow your mind, but it does its job well enough to keep you invested. It’s a fine backdrop for the chaos, and the bite-sized narrative chunks allow you to focus on the gameplay, which is clearly where the developers wanted the spotlight to shine.

Basureroes: Invasion exploring a level. Published on: LadiesGamers
Turtle power!

Heroes with Unique Flair

At its core, Basureroes: Invasion is a platformer with clear inspiration from the Mega Man series. Instead of gaining new powers for a single protagonist, you unlock a team of heroes, each with their own unique abilities. This is where the game truly differentiates itself.

One character can glide over obstacles and attack with their cape, while another wields a laser that can be charged for extra power, a nod to Mega Man fans. My personal favourite is the hero armed with a bow staff, which can be thrown into walls to create platforms or used as a boomerang to take down enemies. Experimenting with these abilities and figuring out how to best use each hero is a genuine highlight of the experience.

Rescue Missions with a Twist

While the primary goal of each level is to reach the end, there’s plenty to do along the way. Scattered throughout the stages are five survivors and a dog waiting to be rescued. The survivors simply need to be touched to be saved, but many are tucked away in areas that require specific heroes to access, further incentivizing replayability.

The dog, on the other hand, adds a fun (and occasionally frustrating) wrinkle to the gameplay. Carrying the dog means sacrificing some of your abilities, forcing you to carefully plan your movements. You can set it down and pick it up again as needed, but the added challenge of protecting your furry friend while navigating hazards is both rewarding and nerve-wracking.

Basureroes: Invasion bike ride segment. Published on: LadiesGamers
I’ll catch this train one way or another

Boss Battles and Surprises

No platformer would be complete without boss fights, and Basureroes: Invasion delivers on this front. Each level concludes with a showdown against a villain. While these fights stick to familiar patterns of dodging and striking at the right moment, they’re well-executed and satisfying to overcome.

There are also a few surprises sprinkled in like a boss encounter that unexpectedly tests your skills in rock-paper-scissors rather than combat. Moments like these add a quirky charm that keeps the game from feeling too predictable.

Vehicles and Variety

If the platforming starts to feel too familiar, the game shakes things up with vehicle sections. One level has you riding on a motorcycle, while another turns into a mini shoot-’em-up as you pilot a spaceship. And, of course, there’s a train level, because what great platformer doesn’t have a train level? These segments are not only well-designed but also serve as a welcome break from the standard gameplay, ensuring the pace stays engaging throughout.

Basureroes: Invasion boss fight. Published on: LadiesGamers
This hero is bananas!

Accessible and Intuitive Gameplay

The controls in Basureroes: Invasion are simple and intuitive. All characters share basic platforming abilities like running, jumping, and sliding, but each has unique moves that add depth. Some heroes are noticeably easier to use than others, which is a smart design choice. It lets players adjust the challenge to their liking, opting for a tougher or more forgiving experience depending on their hero of choice.

The game also features difficulty settings, with easier modes adding more platforms to assist less experienced players. This accessibility, combined with the game’s pick-up-and-play nature, makes it appealing to a wide audience, from platforming veterans to newcomers.

Bring a Friend (or Three!)

One of the standout features of Basureroes: Invasion is its local co-op mode, allowing up to four players to team up. Co-op isn’t something you often see in this genre, and it’s implemented well here. While I played mostly solo, it was easy to imagine how having a friend (or three) could make tricky sections or dog-carrying moments more manageable. It’s a fantastic addition that makes the game a great choice for a game night with friends or family.

Basureroes: Invasion rescuing a survivor. Published on: LadiesGamers
Just hanging out

A Familiar Yet Fun Presentation

Visually, Basureroes: Invasion sticks to a colourful pixel art style that’s both vibrant and nostalgic. While the graphics won’t blow you away with originality, they’re easy on the eyes and perfectly suit the game’s lighthearted tone. The level design, though filled with familiar tropes like ice, lava, and forest stages, is well-executed and memorable.

The soundtrack deserves a mention. With several tracks that blend retro and modern vibes, it’s an energetic accompaniment that keeps the action feeling lively and engaging. Whether you’re platforming through a jungle or dodging lasers in space, the music does a great job of setting the mood.

A Few Rough Spots

Despite its many strengths, Basureroes: Invasion isn’t without its flaws. The gameplay borrows heavily from classics like Mega Man, which can make it feel a bit derivative at times. While the characters’ unique abilities add some originality, the overall experience leans heavily on familiar ideas.

Additionally, the humour, while charming in places, doesn’t always land. Some jokes feel a bit forced, but this is ultimately a minor gripe in an otherwise solid package.

Basureroes: Invasion story segment. Published on: LadiesGamers
These heroes work fast

Conclusion: Heroes Unite

What starts as a seemingly standard Mega Man-inspired platformer quickly reveals itself to be a charming and enjoyable surprise. With its varied gameplay, creative character abilities, and clever level design, Basureroes: Invasion manages to rise above its familiar influences. The addition of co-op play and alternate game modes adds even more replayability, making it a game that’s easy to recommend.

While it doesn’t reinvent the genre, it delivers a polished and fun experience that fans of retro platformers will appreciate. Whether you’re tackling levels solo or with friends, there’s plenty here to enjoy.

Final Verdict: I Like It a LotI like it a lot

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