Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Pocky & Rocky with Becky revives the classic top-down shooter formula in a compact, on-the-go package. You navigate maze-like stages that scroll freely in all directions, collecting talismans and power-ups while blasting through waves of yokai. The controls are tight and responsive, allowing you to weave between enemy projectiles and line up precise card-throwing attacks.

Each playable character offers a distinct playstyle: Pocky’s wide‐spread shots cover large swaths of the screen, Rocky’s homing attacks make crowd control easier, and newcomer Becky wields a charged beam for single-target devastation. As you grab elemental buffs—such as wind, water, and fire—you’ll notice each power-up modifying your shot patterns and special attacks, adding a light layer of build customization to every run.

Boss encounters break the stage routine with multi-phase fights that demand pattern recognition and aggressive movement. Every boss feels unique in design and attack choreography, keeping you on your toes as you juggle dodging serpent coils, fire talismans, or spectral hands. Replay value is built into secret stages and branching paths, encouraging you to experiment with different characters and difficulty settings.

Graphics

Visually, Pocky & Rocky with Becky strikes a harmonious balance between nostalgia and clarity. The sprite work faithfully captures the charm of the original 16-bit era while introducing smoother animations and richer color gradients. Environments—from misty bamboo groves to fiery mountain shrines—are rendered with a warm, hand-painted aesthetic.

Character sprites pop off the screen with crisp outlines and fluid movement. When Pocky’s kimono flutters or Becky charges her beam, you can see every pixel-perfect detail in action. Background layers scroll at different speeds, creating a subtle parallax effect that adds depth to each level without cluttering the playfield.

The user interface is equally well executed. Health meters, bomb counts, and power-up icons are immediately readable—even in handheld mode—so you can make split-second decisions without squinting. Boss health bars and damage flashes use bold contrast to signal openings, making encounters feel fair and telegraphed rather than chaotic.

Story

While the narrative isn’t the main draw, Pocky & Rocky with Becky weaves a charming folk-tale backdrop around its frenetic action. You learn that an evil demon has broken free from its Shinto prison, and it’s up to the brave priestesses and their raccoon companion to restore balance. The premise is lighthearted, but every stage introduces new shrine spirits and mischievous yokai that add personality to the quest.

Cutscenes between stages are brief—mostly featuring expressive character portraits and a few lines of dialogue—but they reinforce the game’s whimsical tone. Becky’s playful banter with Rocky or Pocky’s determined glances create a sense of camaraderie, making you care about the world even as you’re blasting through enemy hordes.

Narrative progression is tied to stage completion rather than lengthy exposition, which suits the pickup-and-play nature of portable gaming. You’ll see enough story to feel invested, but not so much that it interrupts the flow. The emphasis remains squarely on gameplay, with story elements serving as delightful palate cleansers between boss fights.

Overall Experience

Pocky & Rocky with Becky excels as both a nostalgia-inducing revival and a solid modern shooter. Its difficulty curve is well calibrated: new players can breeze through early stages with minimal frustration, while veterans will relish the high-octane challenge of later levels and hidden secret modes. The inclusion of local co-op enhances replay value, turning each run into a shared adventure.

The audio design complements the visuals perfectly. Traditional Japanese instruments and upbeat chiptune melodies provide an infectious soundtrack that adapts dynamically to the intensity of each encounter. Sound effects—like the crisp “whoosh” of a thrown card or the booming crash of a boss’s finale—feel weighty without overwhelming your ears.

On the whole, Pocky & Rocky with Becky is a thoughtfully crafted homage that stands on its own merits. Whether you’re a fan of the original series or a newcomer seeking a vibrant handheld shooter, this revival offers tight mechanics, enchanting presentation, and a delightful character trio to guide you through its demon-plagued lands. It’s an essential pick for anyone craving a bit of retro charm with fresh polish.

Retro Replay Score

6.3/10