Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Brutal: Paws of Fury delivers a straightforward one-on-one fighting experience where players punch, kick, and unleash special attacks against a roster of anthropomorphic animals. Beyond basic blows, each character can perform a unique “taunt” that restores a small portion of health, encouraging tactical retreats and mind games between bouts. The number of rounds per duel is fully adjustable in the options menu, giving newcomers and seasoned fighters alike the flexibility to tailor match length.

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The core Adventure Mode follows your chosen character across the Dalai Llama’s island, pitting you against a series of opponents until you face the final boss—none other than the Dalai Llama himself. After each hard-fought victory, console players are rewarded with a new special move, progressively expanding their offensive arsenal. While the computer versions omit this feature, the console progression system adds a satisfying sense of growth and discovery.

For those seeking quick action, the game’s Single Duel mode lets you pick any unlocked fighter, opponent, and terrain. Whether you’re squaring off against the CPU or challenging a friend in two-player mode, this mode offers instant gratification and endless replayability. It’s a welcome addition for casual gatherings and friendly rivalries.

Character variety is a highlight—each animal competitor brings distinct animations, move sets, and post-victory ending clips. From nimble cats to hulking bears, you’ll find a fighter whose style suits your preferences, making each duel feel fresh and personalized.

Graphics

Visually, Brutal: Paws of Fury trades the pixelated gore of Mortal Kombat and the metallic sheen of Rise of the Robots for a charming, cutesy aesthetic. The colorful character sprites are rendered with smooth, cartoon-inspired animations that emphasize each animal’s personality. Flourishes like expressive facial reactions and exaggerated poses keep the battles lighthearted.

The variety of outdoor stages—ranging from tropical beaches to misty bamboo groves and serene temple courtyards—provides a pleasing backdrop for every fight. Though the backgrounds aren’t hyper-detailed, they strike a nice balance between readability and visual flair, ensuring that the action remains the focal point.

Special attack effects are equally whimsical. Rather than showering the screen with blood, you’ll see playful bursts of stars, sparkles, or elemental flourishes that accentuate each character’s signature move. These effects may be simple, but they reinforce the game’s overall tone and keep the visuals clutter-free.

Minor differences between platform versions are present, with the console editions featuring slightly richer color palettes and a few additional animation frames. Nevertheless, both computer and console releases maintain consistent performance, offering smooth frame rates even when the screen gets hectic.

Story

Brutal: Paws of Fury doesn’t rely on an intricate narrative, but its lighthearted premise is enough to give structure to the fights. The Dalai Llama, a genial yet enigmatic figure, invites animals from all corners of the world to demonstrate their martial arts prowess in a grand tournament. It’s a whimsical setup that immediately establishes a fun, tongue-in-cheek atmosphere.

Each fighter you select has a brief introductory scene and a unique ending animation that plays upon victory in Adventure Mode. These endings offer small glimpses into the characters’ motivations and personalities—whether they’re seeking glory, honor, or simply a good brawl—which adds charm without bogging the game down in cutscenes.

Between matches, you’ll encounter minimal in-game dialogue or plot exposition, but the tournament framework provides just enough context to keep you invested. The promise of a final confrontation with the Dalai Llama himself serves as a motivating goal, injecting each victory with a dash of anticipation.

While hardcore fighting-game fans may find the storyline lightweight, it perfectly complements the game’s accessible mechanics and cartoonish style. This balance ensures that the focus remains on entertaining bouts rather than on complex lore.

Overall Experience

Brutal: Paws of Fury stands out as a fun, accessible fighting game that’s ideal for players who prefer lighthearted competition over gritty realism. Its simple controls, charming character roster, and playful visuals make it an inviting title for newcomers and younger audiences.

Multiplayer sessions shine brightest, with Single Duel mode providing an easy setup for two players to face off head-to-head. Whether you’re hosting a weekend gaming get-together or just sparring with a friend on the couch, the quick matches and varied stages keep the action lively.

On the flip side, the depth of combat is somewhat limited compared to genre heavyweights. Combos and strategic depth are kept to a minimum, so experienced fighting-game veterans may find the mechanics too straightforward. However, this simplicity is also part of the game’s appeal, ensuring that matches remain fast-paced and accessible.

In the end, Brutal: Paws of Fury delivers a unique twist on the one-on-one fighter formula. Its whimsical art style, roster of animated animal warriors, and digestible mechanics combine for an entertaining package that’s well worth exploring—especially if you’re looking for a refreshing alternative to more serious brawlers.

Retro Replay Score

6.5/10