Summary
Super Monkey Ball: Banana Rumble is another classic game in the series with plenty of replay value. It features a large online mode, which, while not hugely impressive, is a nice addition.
Developer – Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio
Publisher – Sega
Platforms – Nintendo Switch (Reviewed)
Review copy given by publisher
Sega and Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio are back with its classic platform series, Super Monkey Ball: Banana Rumble. Over the last decade we haven’t received a brand new game in the series as the publisher has been putting out remasters of classic Super Monkey Ball games. Banana Rumble for the Nintendo Switch brings back the classic gameplay that comes with modern features for players.
Super Monkey Ball: Banana Rumble’s gameplay is what we have known the franchise to be with its fast-paced and unique courses. Straight away I jumped into the Adventure mode that takes you on a journey through 10 main worlds with at least 10 stages in each of the worlds.
While going along in your journey you’ll likely run into a difficult level, get through it then what’s next might surprise you with how much “easier” it is. Super Monkey Ball isn’t just about getting to the end of the level in a certain amount of time, you’ll want to try and collect all of the bananas, especially the Golden Banana.
In Super Monkey Ball: Banana Rumble, there’s a Battle mode that allows you to play against other players either locally or online. In Battle mode, you can choose from several options including Race, Banana Hunt, Ba-Boom!, Goal Rush, and Robot Smash. While the multiplayer mode in this game isn’t exceptional, it’s still nice to have the option for replayability. Online supports up to 16 players which can cause some chaos.
When it comes to replayability there is a ton of that in Banana Rumble as there are missions to complete such as beating a level in a certain amount of time or clearing and collecting all bananas. Clearing each world will also reward you with Mission points. If you are a completionist, Super Monkey Ball: Banana Rumble will have you occupied for hours.
Player customization does not lack. You can customize your character’s effects, clothes, the ball, handwear, footwear, and facial wear. Sega never fails to include collaborations in its games and in Super Monkey Ball: Banana Rumble you can play Sonic, Knuckles, Kiryu from Yakuza, and more iconic characters from the publisher.
Graphically, Banana Rumble is quite basic, but that’s okay. The game may not amaze you with its visuals, but the main menu with the water and sand does look great, I must say. The animated cutscenes are also a nice touch in this game, providing some dialogue and fun visuals. In a platform game like this, what matters the most is gameplay, and they have nailed that here.
The level design is impressive with diverse themes that may be challenging but offer variety. Nothing ever feels the same, and every stage is unique in its way. Speedrunners will love the challenge that Banana Rumble brings to the table. What I love about this game is that Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio catered to both the hardcore and casual player base. If you don’t care about achieving everything in this game you can do just that and get through the story mode.
Super Monkey Ball: Banana Rumble offers a lot of value for just $50. The game presents some challenges with tough courses and its online mode, but it’s a good choice for those looking to play something different in today’s gaming world. This will go down as another great Super Monkey Ball title.