JustAxe takes me back to the nostalgic days of Adobe Flash games on platforms like Newgrounds and Kongregate. It’s a relatively simple platformer that carries that same fluid Flash game vibe and controls. However, for gamers who aren’t familiar with these old-school games, the sluggish pace and odd game physics can be quite off-putting. It’s a bit surprising to see such mechanics in a console game launching in 2024.
In JustAxe, players control Martha, the protagonist, who seems to have a knack for attracting enemies’ aggression. These foes relentlessly chase her through every level, even to the point of recklessly falling into traps and crevices. When they attack, they can send Martha flying across the screen in a way that’s far from realistic. This quirky behavior is very much reminiscent of the Flash game era.
When it comes to moving around in JustAxe, the game again reveals its retro roots. Martha runs, jumps, and swings her trusty axe, but something about the controls feels a bit off. Take, for instance, one of the chase levels where falling into a spiky pit should spell doom, yet instead of meeting an instant demise, Martha bounces off and takes damage with each bounce. These minor quirks add to the sense of the game feeling a bit unpolished.
On the bright side, JustAxe doesn’t overstay its welcome. It’s a short trek that can be finished in about three hours, making it perfect for passing time on a long commute or during a tedious dinner. The storyline is straightforward, as expected, but that’s just right for a game that aims to distract players with its somewhat challenging levels and persistent adversaries.
This review is written based on a copy of the game provided by the publisher.
