The Nintendo Switch has welcomed a new free-to-play exclusive game that has excited a niche but dedicated fanbase. Developed by Genius Sonority, The New Denpa Men is the latest installment in the Denpa Men series. While the series may not be well-known to many, its return to the West on the Switch has created a buzz among its cult following.
Despite some launch issues like a subpar English localization, a mandatory online connection, and heavy use of microtransactions, there is still a quirky charm to be found in The New Denpa Men. It harks back to a time when Nintendo’s innovative hardware features led to creative game design choices.
Similar to its predecessors, The New Denpa Men is a dungeon-crawling RPG where players assemble a team of colorful characters to explore dungeons, gather loot, decorate their home base, and engage in activities like fishing, reminiscent of games like Animal Crossing.
However, what sets The New Denpa Men apart is its quirky humor and unique gameplay mechanics. For instance, players must use Wi-Fi signals to summon allies and physically aim with the Switch’s gyroscope to catch new Denpa Men. These distinctive gameplay elements harken back to a time when hardware features like the 3DS’ Streetpass were prominent.
While the gameplay mechanics may take some time getting used to, the game offers a fast-paced turn-based battle system with RPG customization options for each character, adding depth to the experience.
Despite its charm, the game suffers from a messy English translation and heavy reliance on microtransactions, which can hinder progression. Additionally, the always-online requirement on the Switch may be inconvenient for some players.
Overall, while The New Denpa Men may have its flaws, it offers a unique and wacky gaming experience reminiscent of a bygone era in gaming. Fans of quirky and offbeat games may find themselves drawn to the charm of The New Denpa Men.
The New Denpa Men is now available for free download on the Nintendo Switch.
