Can this platformer grapple its way into the greats?
Swing, jump, and blast through dimensions in the follow-up to the critically-acclaimed 2D action-platformer Grapple Dog. Zip between action-packed worlds as Pablo and Luna team up to save the cosmos in their own unique ways.
I have to admit, I hadn’t heard of the original Grapple Dog, so I didn’t know what to expect. You play as two very different characters. Pablo handles much like a traditional platformer, he can jump and use his grapple hook to get through each stage, while Luna’s more of a run-and-gun shooter who also has a grapple hook. Each stage has a few collectibles to be found, some of which are well hidden.
The levels are well designed and I enjoyed my time with each. I did like that they mixed up the gameplay, as I honestly wasn’t expecting much other than a traditional 2D platformer. I still would have been satisfied with that to be honest, but it’s nice to see risks being taken. For those who are terrible at platformers or just want to breeze through it, the accessibility options can give you infinite health where you can only die if you fall to your death, as well as infinite jumping so you don’t even need to use the grappling hook.
It does take away the challenge though, so it’s only recommended for those who are maybe a little younger, those lacking platforming experience or those who just want to get through it, nab the 1000 Gamerscore and move on. I’d personally recommend playing it as intended, it’s honestly the more rewarding of the ways. My only criticism of the game itself is that it’s on the short side, other than that it’s hard not to recommend.
The visuals are simple but effective, plus cute to boot. It has a nice art style, the framerate never drops and the soundtrack is also pretty catchy. I didn’t come across any glitches in my playthrough.
The Verdict
Grapple Dogs: Cosmic Canines is a great mixture of both traditional platforming and run-and-gunning action. It looks charming, handles well and I hope we get a third game down the road…