Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Choose an Enemy offers a straightforward but satisfying fighting system that relies on timing, positioning, and strategic choices. Before the match begins, players select from three distinct opponents, each with unique speed ratings and knockout power. This initial choice adds a layer of strategy—opting for a slower but harder-hitting adversary or a faster yet less devastating foe will significantly affect your approach in the ring.

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Once combat starts, the simplicity of the controls shines. Using the shift keys to throw left and right punches creates an intuitive two-fist dynamic, while the space bar provides a quick dodge to evade incoming attacks. The mechanics allow newcomers to pick up the basics in minutes, while timing-based veterans can hone their reflexes to land critical blows and avoid damage in split seconds.

The tooth-based health system is a creative twist on traditional hit points. With each punch capable of removing one or two teeth, the stakes feel personal and visceral. The objective is clear: knock out all 32 of your opponent’s teeth before you lose yours. This mechanic intensifies the match, as each landed punch visibly alters your foe’s appearance, giving real-time feedback that drives both tension and satisfaction.

Beyond the core fighting mechanics, there’s a surprising layer of replayability. Unlocking each opponent and mastering their patterns encourages multiple playthroughs. While there are no combo trees or special moves, the game’s focus on positioning, timing, and choosing the right moment to strike ensures that no two fights feel exactly the same.

Graphics

Visually, Choose an Enemy embraces a gritty, minimalist style that suits its no-frills combat. From the first-person vantage point, you see only the arms and fists you wield, while your opponent looms directly ahead. This perspective creates an immediate sense of immersion, placing you in the fight zone without any distracting HUD elements.

The character models are detailed enough to show facial expressions, bruises, and missing teeth as the match progresses. Each punch triggers subtle animation cues—jolted heads, flinches, and staggered movements—that heighten the impact of every strike. The art style leans toward realism without striving for hyper-detail, striking a balance that keeps the game fluid and responsive.

Background environments are sparse, featuring dimly lit alleyways or makeshift ring setups. While these arenas lack ornate decoration, the shadowy lighting and ambient street sounds evoke a raw, underground fight club atmosphere. This pared-down approach to scenery prevents distraction and keeps the focus firmly on the visceral combat unfolding before you.

Performance is generally stable, even during rapid exchanges of blows. The frame rate holds steady, ensuring that your punch and dodge inputs translate seamlessly on screen. Occasional screen shake and smudged camera effects after major hits further amplify the sense of force without compromising visibility.

Story

The narrative of Choose an Enemy is intentionally minimalistic, centering on a single, high-stakes moment: defending your girlfriend from an aggressor. There’s no sprawling plot or character arcs—your motivation is clear, concise, and emotionally charged from the outset. This stripped-back storytelling keeps you focused on the fight and the immediate emotional payoff of victory or defeat.

While there’s no voice acting or cutscenes, the game uses brief text-based introductions to set the scene before each opponent. These intros give a glimpse into who you’re up against—whether it’s the quick-footed brawler, the heavy-hitting bruiser, or the balanced all-rounder. This lightweight approach to narrative ensures pacing remains tight, jumping swiftly from selection screen to first punch.

The absence of a deeper backstory may frustrate players craving richer lore or character development. On the other hand, it reinforces the game’s arcade-like, pick-up-and-play ethos. Without lengthy exposition, you can dive right into new matches, keeping adrenaline levels high and downtime to a minimum.

Ultimately, the story serves its purpose as framing device rather than main attraction. It provides context for your actions and elevates each knockout from a mere combo to a heroic rescue mission, but it never overreaches. This simplicity will appeal to players who prefer gameplay-first experiences without the burden of extensive cutscenes or dialogue trees.

Overall Experience

Choose an Enemy delivers a punchy, no-nonsense fighting experience that excels in delivering immediate thrills. Its blend of easy-to-learn controls, visceral tooth-based health system, and first-person perspective creates matches that feel both intimate and intense. Each bout is a test of reflexes and nerve, from your first hesitant jab to the final, decisive blow.

The game’s minimalistic design philosophy—visible in its lean story, stripped-down arenas, and focused mechanics—ensures that every element serves the core combat loop. While some players might long for deeper combo systems or sprawling narratives, the clarity of purpose here is a refreshing change of pace in a genre often bloated with tutorials and side content.

Replayability stems from mastering different opponent archetypes and fine-tuning your timing against each one. Whether you prefer head-on aggression or cautious counterattacks, Choose an Enemy rewards experimentation and skill progression. The tooth-count mechanic provides a constant visual reminder of your progress, amplifying both tension and satisfaction as you edge closer to victory.

For anyone seeking a quick, adrenaline-fueled fight rather than an epic saga, Choose an Enemy stands out as a solid pick. Its focused approach guarantees memorable moments and keeps you coming back for just one more round. While it may not satisfy fans of story-driven brawlers, its pure, unadulterated combat experience makes it a worthwhile addition to any fighting game library.

Retro Replay Score

null/10