Whisker Squadron: Survivor - Cats, Lasers, and a Neon Galaxy

When Starfox meets vaporwave, and cats save the universe

Launch Day Larry

In the vast cosmos of indie games, “Whisker Squadron: Survivor” emerges as a vibrant retrowave roguelike that promises to whisk you away on a nostalgic journey through space. With anthropomorphic cats piloting ships against a robotic bug invasion, this game is as quirky as it sounds. But does it deliver on its promise of high-octane, feline-fueled action? Let’s dive into the gameplay, graphics, and story to find out.

Gameplay: A Cosmic Dance of Strategy and Chaos

“Whisker Squadron: Survivor” offers a gameplay experience that feels like a love letter to classic arcade rail shooters, with a modern twist. The controls are responsive, allowing for high-level play that will have Dark Souls veterans feeling right at home. The game’s technical foundation is solid, with smooth mechanics that make each run feel fresh and unique. However, the lack of controller support in menus and the dual function of aiming and moving with the mouse can make you feel like you’re trying to pat your head and rub your belly at the same time.

The core gameplay loop is a familiar yet addictive blend of shooting mobs, leveling up ships, and collecting power-ups. The roguelite elements and modifier system add a layer of strategy, ensuring that no two playthroughs are the same. Yet, the shared resource for speed and weaponry can leave you feeling like you’re trying to sprint a marathon while juggling flaming swords. Suggestions for separate modes or incentives for speed-based and combo-based gameplay could add the depth that some players crave.

Customization and upgrades are a significant part of the experience, with random and permanent upgrades allowing players to tailor their approach. However, the game risks becoming monotonous once you’ve unlocked all the upgrades, like a cat that’s finally caught the laser pointer. A more linear progression of challenges could keep players engaged for the long haul.

Graphics: A Neon Dream with a Few Hiccups

Visually, “Whisker Squadron: Survivor” is a feast for the eyes, with a vibrant and stylish aesthetic that draws you in like a moth to a neon flame. The vaporwave influence is strong, creating a nostalgic charm reminiscent of “Star Fox 64.” The game runs smoothly at 120fps, making the action-packed sequences even more exhilarating. However, the abundance of neon projectiles and vaporous explosions can sometimes obscure important gameplay elements, leaving you squinting at the screen like you’re trying to decipher a magic eye puzzle.

While the graphics are a strong point, there’s a noted imbalance between visual appeal and gameplay. The environments, though stunning, can become repetitive, and there’s a call for more dynamic visual elements to keep things fresh. Accessibility is another area for improvement, with colorblind players facing challenges due to the lack of colorblind-friendly visuals.

Story: Cats, Lasers, and a Dash of Anti-Capitalism

The narrative of “Whisker Squadron: Survivor” is as quirky as its premise, featuring a team of heroic anthropomorphic cats tasked with saving the galaxy from the “Swarm.” The story is delivered in small increments with each run, adding an interesting layer without overwhelming the gameplay. However, the lack of detailed storytelling elements leaves many players scratching their heads, wondering why these cats are so invested in intergalactic pest control.

While some players appreciate the game’s anti-capitalist message and unique narrative style, others find the story underdeveloped and lacking in depth. The characters could use more uniqueness and development, and the dialogue sometimes veers into corny territory. Yet, there’s potential for the story to be expanded and clarified in future updates, offering a more engaging narrative experience.

Final Verdict

“Whisker Squadron: Survivor” is a game with a solid foundation and significant potential. Its vibrant graphics and engaging gameplay mechanics make it a recommended choice for fans of the genre and those looking for a fresh take on roguelikes. However, improvements in controller support, gameplay incentives, and story depth could elevate it to new heights. For now, it’s a delightful romp through a neon galaxy, with enough charm to keep you coming back for more.

Score: 7.3/10