Stick It to the Stickman: Corporate Climbing with a Side of Chaos

When stick figures take on the corporate ladder, hilarity and havoc ensue

Launch Day Larry

Welcome to the world of “Stick It to the Stickman,” where the only thing more dangerous than the office politics is the stickman with a grudge. This game takes the mundane corporate climb and turns it into a chaotic beat ‘em up adventure, complete with humor, tragedy, and a surprising amount of depth. Let’s dive into the stickman saga and see if it sticks the landing.

Gameplay: A Punchy Mix of Fun and Frustration

“Stick It to the Stickman” offers a gameplay experience that is as engaging as it is occasionally exasperating. The combat system is a central focus, delivering satisfying physics and the thrill of landing high combos. However, the move system feels like it was designed by someone who thinks variety is overrated. With a cycling move list that can’t be customized, players might find themselves repeating the same moves more often than they’d like. A little more depth here could go a long way.

Replayability is a strong suit, with four modes and 20 characters to keep things fresh. The variety of enemies and bosses, along with the ability to experiment with different playstyles, adds to the game’s charm. However, the “Cage Fight” mode might leave you feeling more like a spectator than a participant. Meanwhile, “Finance Tower” is a fan favorite, offering a more dynamic experience.

Control customization, or the lack thereof, is a notable issue. The default control scheme, like using ‘W’ for jump, might make you question if the developers have ever played a platformer. Plus, while local co-op is a blast, the absence of online co-op feels like a missed opportunity for multiplayer mayhem.

Performance issues, such as stuttering on capable hardware, can detract from the experience. But at a low price point, the game offers good value, especially if you enjoy a mix of silly humor and dark corporate commentary. Just be prepared for a few rough edges, like the disproportionately difficult credits section and those pesky empty ability slots in cage fights.

Graphics: Stickman Style with a Side of Stutter

The graphics in “Stick It to the Stickman” are a charming blend of simplicity and style. The stickman aesthetic is fluid and smooth, particularly in animations that make combat feel satisfying. It’s like watching a stickman ballet, if ballet involved more punching and less tutus.

However, the game’s graphics are also a source of performance-related headaches. Frame rate drops and lag are common, even on high-end systems like the RTX 4050. It’s as if the game is trying to remind you that even stickmen have their limits. These issues aren’t confined to specific hardware, with reports of lag on Linux and the Steam Deck suggesting a need for optimization.

Long loading times and occasional menu glitches hint at potential issues with how graphics are rendered. Despite these challenges, the game’s visual style remains a highlight, contributing positively to the overall experience. Just be prepared for your hardware to work a little harder than expected.

Story: A Stickman Saga of Humor and Heartache

“Stick It to the Stickman” weaves a narrative that is both humorous and poignant. The story follows a blue stickman on a tragic journey that resonates with players, exploring themes like the fear of corporate jobs. It’s a tale that might make you laugh, cry, and question your own career choices.

The narrative is cleverly integrated into the gameplay, with players ascending a corporate building to become the CEO. This progression system adds humor and satire, poking fun at corporate life. The comedic elements, described as “funny zoomer tongue and cheek,” provide a lighthearted counterbalance to the more serious themes.

Players appreciate the game’s ability to reflect personal experiences, with some finding therapeutic value in naming their characters after disliked managers. The unique narrative loop, where players kill the boss to become the boss, adds depth and intrigue, making the story a significant draw.

The subplot of being a mutant superhero escaping an experimental complex is a standout, offering a fascinating storyline that enhances replayability. Despite minor technical issues, the story and gameplay are so captivating that players overlook these flaws, eager for more stickman adventures.

Final Verdict

“Stick It to the Stickman” is a game that delivers a punchy mix of humor, chaos, and corporate satire. While it has its share of rough edges, the engaging gameplay, charming graphics, and compelling story make it a worthwhile experience. Whether you’re a fan of stickmen or just looking for a unique take on the corporate climb, this game is worth a shot.

Score: 7.0/10