Game: Big Helmet Heroes
Genre: Arcade, Fighting, Party, Multiplayer
System: Nintendo Switch (also on Steam (Windows), Xbox and PS4 & PS5)
Developer|Publisher: Exalted Studio | Dear Villagers
Age Rating: EU 7+ | US everyone
Price: US $24.99 | UK £21.99 | EU € 24,99
Release Date: February 6th, 2025
A review code was provided, and many thanks to JF Games PR.
Big Helmet Heroes: A Brawler with Big Helmets and an Even Bigger Heart
Big Helmet Heroes is a charming and chaotic 3D beat-‘em-up that embraces simplicity, accessibility, and sheer fun. Whether you’re playing solo or teaming up with a friend in a local co-op, this game offers an easygoing yet engaging experience that focuses on pure brawling entertainment rather than complex mechanics or deep storylines. If you’re looking for a lighthearted, humor-filled adventure that doesn’t demand too much from the player, this one is well worth checking out.
A Quest Full of Surprises
The story of Big Helmet Heroes is straightforward but takes some unexpected detours. You set off on a classic mission to rescue a kidnapped princess, only to find that your adventure leads you through all sorts of bizarre and imaginative fantasy locations. From peaceful farmland to scorpion-infested tombs and even a lava-themed amusement park with inflatable rides, the game constantly throws surprises at you. Each new area is a fresh spin on familiar tropes, and discovering what’s next is part of the fun.
Despite being a beat-’em-up, Big Helmet Heroes keeps its tone lighthearted and comedic. There’s no gore, and battles play out more like a slapstick pantomime than a brutal showdown. Characters grunt, squeak, and make ridiculous noises instead of traditional battle cries, making it a great option for younger players or families. The cutscenes are short, colourful, and intentionally crude, resembling doodles, you might have drawn in the margins of a school notebook. They get the job done without slowing down the action, reinforcing the game’s focus on fun over narrative depth.
Simple, Satisfying Combat
At its core, Big Helmet Heroes is a straightforward brawler where you work your way through levels, defeating waves of enemies before facing off against the occasional boss. Combat feels fluid and responsive, with a mix of light and heavy attacks that can be strung together into satisfying combos. A helpful dodge move can be used to escape danger at the right moment.
The game starts you off with a classic sword-and-shield-wielding knight, but as you progress, you’ll discover an assortment of wacky weapons and power-ups. You can pick up and throw objects, barrels, enemies, and even random items scattered throughout the world. There’s a fun unpredictability to what weapons you’ll find next, from freeze guns to staffs that transform enemies into sheep (yes, sheep are a recurring comedic theme). One of my personal favourites was a balloon sword and shield, hilarious in concept but surprisingly effective in battle.
Each knight also has a unique special ability that can be activated when fully charged. These abilities add an extra layer of excitement and strategy to the gameplay. One knight can grow to a massive size and stomp on enemies, another can summon clones to overwhelm foes, and because the game leans into its love for sheep, one even calls in a stampede of them for chaotic results. The game thrives on this kind of playful absurdity, making each battle feel fresh and unpredictable.
Plenty of Knights to Unlock
One of the game’s most enjoyable aspects is unlocking new knights. As you progress, you’ll find knights trapped in cages hidden throughout the levels, waiting to be freed. While there are many different knights to discover, they all fall into one of four core classes:
- Warriors – Balanced fighters specializing in sword and shield combat.
- Brutes – Heavy-hitting brawlers who wield massive two-handed weapons.
- Rogues – Fast and agile dual-wielders who rely on speed over strength.
- Monks – Staff-wielding acrobats who use fluid, dance-like movements to fight.
Even though they share class traits, each knight has their own distinct weapon and playstyle, making it fun to experiment with different characters. In single-player mode, you can bring two knights into battle and switch between them at any time, which adds a strategic layer to encounters. If one knight is running low on health, swapping to another can be a lifesaver.
Pick-Up-and-Play Accessibility
One of Big Helmet Heroes’ biggest strengths is its accessibility. Unlike many modern brawlers, there’s no experience system; your knights are already powerful from the start. Instead of grinding for upgrades, the focus is purely on skilful play and having fun.
The game also features multiple difficulty settings, allowing players of all skill levels to jump in and enjoy the action. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just looking for something casual to play with friends, Big Helmet Heroes provides a stress-free experience.
Minor Dents
While Big Helmet Heroes is an absolute blast to play, there are a few minor issues worth mentioning.
First, while the game does a good job of introducing new mechanics and surprises, some levels can feel a bit repetitive, especially in longer play sessions. The game attempts to break things up with unique boss fights, some of which include interactive elements like loading cannons, but the core brawling loop remains the same throughout.
Second, some players may find themselves missing an upgrade system. While the lack of experience points helps keep things simple, it also means there’s no real progression beyond unlocking new knights. Some might prefer a bit more customization or long-term growth.
Bright, Bold, and Full of Personality
Visually, Big Helmet Heroes is bright, colourful, and packed with personality. The 3D character models are well-animated, and the environments are diverse and full of charm. Despite the fantasy setting, the game leans heavily into humour, with exaggerated animations and silly designs that keep things light and entertaining.
The soundtrack is fittingly epic, adding to the adventure feel without ever becoming overbearing. Performance-wise, the game runs smoothly on both TV and handheld modes on the Nintendo Switch, making it a great pick for on-the-go play.
Conclusion: A Big Recommendation
Big Helmet Heroes is a joy from start to finish. Whether you’re playing alone or with a friend in co-op, there’s plenty of fun to be had without the game ever feeling overly complicated. It’s the perfect pick for a game night, especially if you’re in the mood for something lighthearted and silly.
While the combat can get a little repetitive over long play sessions, the variety of knights, weapons, and unexpected surprises help keep things entertaining. If you’re looking for a game that’s easy to pick up, full of humour, and packed with ridiculous fun, Big Helmet Heroes is an easy recommendation.
Final Verdict: I Like It a Lot 
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