Reader Review: Rag Doll Kung Fu: Fists of Plastic

Do you have what it takes to get a review published right here on Kotaku? Matthew does, as he goes toe-to-toe with comedy PSN brawler, Rag Doll Kung Fu.

Yes, that’s right, we’re now publishing reader reviews here on Kotaku. This is your chance to deliver sensible game purchasing advice to the rest of the Kotaku community.

This review was submitted by Matthew Carroll. If you’ve played Rag Doll Kung Fu, why don’t you let Matthew know whether you agree or disagree with his thoughts.

Ragdoll Kung Fu: Fists of Plastic (PSN)

Ragdoll Kung Fu: FOP is the quasi-sequel to the ingenious indie PC title Ragdoll Kung Fu. While its predecessor was applauded for its limbs dragging control method, one must wonder if the mechanics and charm of the original can translate into a party-oriented console fighter.

Loved

Game Modes: Although not necessarily innovative, the game does offer a few differing multiplayer modes, including staples as well as the considerably odd ‘Capture the Fish’, which has players vying to throw fish in a basket to score points. It is quite fun trying out all the modes with three players alongside you, but the combat does begin to bore from the outset.

‘Some’ Motion Controls: While some controls require Sixaxis interaction, the only one implemented well is that to regenerate health you simply turn your controller upside down, as your character begins to float and meditate. Aside from that, the motion controls are rather cumbersome and don’t add that much to the gameplay.

Hated

Shallow Fighting: Generally speaking, combat in this game is the equivalent to a child slamming together action figures in mock play, and while you can customise your character with as many variations of shiny plastic as you so desire, all have the same miscellaneous barrage of punches and kicks, the only specials being a wayward slamming move and a relatively banal lightning ball.

Theme Feels Tacked On: Apart from its namesake, the game shares little in common with its progenitor, because while the Oriental fighters may flail and somersault just like their PC game counterparts, it just doesn’t make much sense without the same control scheme.

While a decent and not reasonably passable fighting game, I’d probably have enjoyed it more with a different setting and varied combat. Maybe slap on some biblical characters, change the ‘Capture the Fish’ mode to include some bread as well, a walk on water minigame, and you’d have a completely original fighter on your hands.

Reviewed by: Matthew Carroll

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