Run-and-jump platformers with a high learning curve and steep difficulty have become a staple in the indie gaming realm. Games like Splosion Man, Super Meat Boy and Not A Hero are just a few examples of games that have paved the way for Electronic Super Joy. Unlike most titles that have come before it, Electronic Super Joy is crude and volatile. With a hilarious sense of humor and odd form of storytelling, this 8-bit creation by Michael Todd is a unique mash-up of well-executed ideas.

E Super Joy Warning

Here’s what I liked:

The humor — The humor in is this game is not for everyone. With that said, I thought it was hilarious. From the start you are warned that the game may cause seizures — it literally will — and contains murder, crude language, blasphemy and some other tasteful things. At first glance it appears to be random nonsense until you start to realize the severity of the warning. Every time you die you will be greeted with a sexual “ohhh yeah!” in about every male and female voice imaginable. The dialogue between NPCs is clever as well as crazy. And the there are priceless moments where not even the game knows what’s going on. It’s a laugh riot on your quest to get revenged for your murdered butt from beginning to end.

The pretty colors — It’s not the nostalgic 8-bit graphics that draw you into the Electronic Super Joy, but the vibrant use of color and tones. Bright primary colors are complimented with cool secondary tones making for a consistent and ever-changing palate of hues. At times this is completely contrasted by deep, darker tones that make for a rainbow of color and emotions.

Constantly changing gameplay — Instead of building on the powers you acquire throughout the game, every so often Electronic Super Joy will trade out your abilities for new ones or strip you of your powers altogether. The second you get used to an ability you’ll have a new one. After mastering the pinpoint precision of platforming you’re suddenly placed in a spaceship chasing down a boss. The roulette wheel of gameplay options keep Electronic Super Joy from becoming a stagnant game.

E Super Joy Orange

Here’s what I disliked:

The rave — The game is called Electronic Super Joy . I get that, but my goodness the dance music becomes real repetitive, real quick. During the first world it’s tolerable and even quite catchy. But in the later worlds when things start to get hectic and the death count reaches new heights, the music, along with some unforgiving levels, begins to push you toward insanity.

E Super Joy

Wrap-up:

Electronic Super Joy is a simple game with what some would call simple-minded humor. Despite its simple premises there is a lot of game to be played here. Between the main game, bonus content and unlockable DLC there is no shortage of unique levels that, amazingly, avoid becoming repetitive. If you’re easily offended or short on patience, this game is not for you, but there is a a super joyful ride here for everyone else.

Score: Try it

Electronic Super Joy was developed by Michael Todd on Xbox One. It will be released on January 20, 2016 for $9.99. A copy was provided by Michael Todd Games for review purposes.