Laxative! A Quirky Platformer That Will Have You Jumping for Joy (And Maybe Some Tums)
Let’s face it: we all need a good laugh sometimes, especially when navigating the often-serious world of video games. Enter “Laxative,” an indie platformer that throws convention out the window and embraces absurdity with open arms. This delightful game, developed by the enigmatic studio “Phantom Poop” (yes, really), offers a refreshingly unique experience that’s equal parts hilarious and challenging.
A Story So Wild It Could Only Be True
The premise of “Laxative” is as bizarre as its name suggests. You play as Barry the Beaver, a perpetually anxious rodent on a quest to…well, poop. Barry suffers from an unfortunate case of chronic constipation, and his only hope lies in collecting magical laxatives scattered throughout fantastical levels.
Don’t let the seemingly childish theme fool you; “Laxative” explores deeper themes of self-acceptance, overcoming adversity, and the importance of listening to your body (literally!). Barry’s journey is one of personal growth, where he learns to embrace his flaws and overcome his fear of the porcelain throne.
Gameplay That’s Both Familiar and Surprisingly Inventive
At its core, “Laxative” is a classic 2D platformer reminiscent of titles like “Super Mario Bros.” and “Sonic the Hedgehog.” You’ll jump, dash, and climb your way through intricately designed levels, overcoming obstacles and defeating quirky enemies along the way.
But “Laxative” doesn’t just rest on familiar mechanics. The game introduces a unique twist with Barry’s “laxative meter,” which fills up as he collects magical laxatives hidden throughout the stages.
As the meter increases, Barry gains access to special abilities, such as double jumps and temporary invincibility, represented by a delightful visual effect of Barry glowing neon green.
Managing your laxative intake is crucial for success. Filling the meter too quickly can lead to embarrassing (and often hilarious) consequences, while running low on laxatives leaves you vulnerable to enemies and environmental hazards. It’s a clever gameplay mechanic that encourages strategic thinking and adds a layer of depth to the platforming experience.
A Visual Feast That Pops Off the Screen
“Laxative” boasts charming hand-drawn graphics with a vibrant color palette. The whimsical character designs, from Barry’s expressive eyes to the outlandishly designed enemies (think sentient toilets and anthropomorphic laxatives), perfectly capture the game’s lighthearted tone.
The animations are smooth and fluid, further enhancing the sense of playfulness. The environments are equally impressive, ranging from lush forests to wacky laboratories, each with its own unique personality and hidden secrets.
Soundtrack That Will Get Stuck in Your Head (in a Good Way!)
“Laxative” features a delightful soundtrack composed by independent artist “DJ Diarrhea.” The music perfectly complements the game’s tone, blending upbeat chiptune melodies with funky bass lines and unexpected sound effects.
Prepare to be humming catchy tunes long after you put down the controller.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Genre | Platformer |
| Developer | Phantom Poop |
| Platforms | PC, Mac, Nintendo Switch |
| Release Date | March 15, 2023 |
| Price | $14.99 USD |
Final Verdict: A Must-Play for Fans of Quirky Games
“Laxative” is a refreshing breath of fresh air in the platforming genre. Its unique blend of humor, challenging gameplay, and charming visuals makes it a truly memorable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer looking for something new and exciting or simply want a good laugh, “Laxative” is definitely worth checking out.
Just be sure to have some Tums on hand.