My journey into the world of console video game reviews began with a captivating title from the Hyperdimension Neptunia series on the PlayStation 3. This fondness has led me to develop a deep appreciation for the creative works of Idea Factory and Compile Heart, who have crafted a unique franchise that blends humor with gaming culture. While these turn-based RPGs might not always reach the heights of excellence, they are undeniably filled with quirky characters and witty dialogue that humorously critique the video game industry. The franchise has evolved over the years, introducing spin-off titles that explore various genres, the latest being an exciting arcade-style racing game called Neptunia Riders VS Dogoos.
The standout feature of these games is undoubtedly the writing, which often delivers comedic moments that provide a light-hearted take on well-known video games. In Neptunia Riders VS Dogoos, players are tasked with collecting different varieties of Dogoos, which serve as a parody of the iconic slimes found in the Dragon Quest series. The game’s whimsical nature is enhanced by the inclusion of familiar characters who have become beloved staples of the franchise, each representing different gaming consoles. These interactions take place within the vibrant universe of Gamindustri, even though this spin-off unfolds in an alternate dimension. Despite the humorous character dynamics, the brevity of the storyline leaves it feeling less impactful and memorable.
Unfortunately, the gameplay mechanics in Neptunia Riders VS Dogoos fall short of expectations. Players navigate motorcycles through uninspired stages while collecting Dogoos and occasionally engaging in combat against opponents. The gameplay quickly becomes repetitive, cycling through 16 stages without introducing significant variety or challenge. While drifting around corners can provide moments of enjoyment, the overall racing experience lacks depth and excitement. Players may find that the enjoyment experienced during the tutorial mirrors that of the entire game, indicating a flat and unengaging experience.
With a completion time of just around two hours, the game offers minimal content. Although there are additional challenges, such as completing stages without AI companions or within set time limits, these incentives do little to enhance replayability. Unless players are aiming for the elusive Platinum trophy, there is little motivation to revisit the game. Some cosmetic unlocks are available, adding a touch of visual appeal, but overall, this experience feels short-lived and lacks substantial value for players seeking a robust gaming adventure.
In-Depth Review of Neptunia Riders VS Dogoos: An Unfulfilled Potential
The spin-off titles in the Hyperdimension Neptunia franchise often provide a fresh canvas for Idea Factory and Compile Heart to explore new gameplay mechanics with cherished characters. Regrettably, Neptunia Riders VS Dogoos feels like a missed opportunity, unable to accelerate beyond its limitations. The gameplay lacks the engaging qualities needed to capture players’ interest and quickly succumbs to a sense of monotony, even within its short playtime. This title represents a rare miss for the beloved goddesses of Gamindustri, as even their inherent charm cannot elevate this experience into something worthwhile.
Our Rating: 5/10 – A Mediocre Experience
According to ComingSoon’s review policy, a score of 5 signifies a “Mediocre” experience. In this case, the positive aspects and drawbacks of Neptunia Riders VS Dogoos balance each other out, resulting in an overall neutral rating.
Disclosure: The publisher provided a digital PS5 copy for our review of Neptunia Riders VS Dogoos. This review is based on version 1.000.000.
