Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Cheesy delivers a refreshing twist on traditional platform gaming by blending side-scrolling action with occasional first-person segments. Players guide Cheesy the mouse through tight platform challenges, timing precise jumps over deadly pits and dodging a variety of mutated creatures. The inclusion of first-person shooting sequences adds unexpected depth, creating a dynamic pacing that alternates between reflex-based platforming and tense, aim-and-shoot encounters.

The level design is ambitious for CTA’s first PlayStation release, offering 24 distinct stages that escalate in complexity and creativity. Early levels serve as a gentle tutorial, introducing basic mechanics such as double-jumping and wall-climbing. As you progress, environmental hazards like crumbling floors, swinging pendulums, and collapsing mine carts keep you on your toes. The challenge peaks in sequences where you must maintain balance in a runaway mine cart while fending off giant spiders emerging from dark tunnels.

Control responsiveness is generally solid, with Cheesy’s movements feeling tight and predictable. Occasionally, cramped camera angles in first-person segments can lead to disorientation, but these moments are few and far between. Overall, the game strikes a good balance between accessible platforming and more intense, skill-based gameplay, ensuring newcomers and seasoned players alike remain engaged throughout the adventure.

Graphics

Visually, Cheesy embraces a vibrant cartoon aesthetic that perfectly suits its whimsical premise. Character models are colorful and expressive, from Cheesy’s wide-eyed determination to the mad scientist’s exaggerated sneers. The mutated creatures range from grotesque to goofy, with enough variety to keep each encounter feeling fresh. Textures may appear slightly dated by modern standards, but they have a certain nostalgic charm that enhances the game’s personality.

Environmental detail is particularly noteworthy in levels like the burning chimney, where flickering flames cast dynamic shadows on brick walls, and embers float lazily through the air. The mine-cart stages feature rusted tracks, creaking wooden beams, and occasional spark effects that convey a constant sense of motion and danger. Alien-infested castle corridors glow with eerie green liquids and pulsating organic growths, creating a claustrophobic atmosphere that contrasts nicely with the brighter outdoor areas.

Frame rate remains stable for the most part, even during hectic sequences involving multiple on-screen enemies. Occasional slowdowns occur when large particle effects—such as explosions or cascading debris—populate the frame, but these hiccups are brief and seldom disrupt the action. Overall, the graphical presentation is both charming and functional, supporting gameplay readability while reinforcing the game’s playful tone.

Story

At its core, Cheesy’s narrative is a lighthearted romp perfect for platformer enthusiasts seeking simple yet engaging context. The premise is straightforward: Cheesy the mouse has been captured by an eccentric mad scientist intent on turning him into the subject of bizarre genetic experiments. Just when all hope seems lost, an unexpected invasion by mohawked aliens creates enough chaos for Cheesy to break free from his glass prison.

From that moment on, the story unfolds across 24 levels of interlocking environments, each revealing more about the scientist’s twisted research and the alien threat. Occasional cutscenes use crisp sprite animations and humorous dialogue to flesh out supporting characters, such as a heroic lab rat ally and the scientist’s bumbling assistant. These narrative beats never overstay their welcome, providing context before slipping you right back into the action.

While the plot doesn’t delve into deep thematic territory, it strikes a satisfying balance between humor and tension. The looming threat of genetic mutation and alien conquest is offset by Cheesy’s plucky attitude and the game’s whimsical art style. By the time you confront the final, mutated boss lurking in the heart of the castle, you’ll be invested enough in Cheesy’s plight to cheer on his triumphant escape.

Overall Experience

Cheesy stands out as an ambitious debut for CTA on the PlayStation, offering a well-rounded package that blends classic platforming with first-person action. The pacing is varied enough to prevent monotony, with each new environment introducing unique obstacles and enemies. Whether you’re navigating collapsing mine-cart tracks or tiptoeing through alien-infested laboratories, the game consistently maintains a sense of excitement and discovery.

Replayability is bolstered by hidden collectibles scattered throughout the levels, encouraging exploration and mastery of tricky platforming sections. Time trials and optional challenges provide extra incentive for veterans seeking a tougher test. Sound design complements the visuals nicely, featuring upbeat tunes during exploration and tense, percussive rhythms in boss encounters. Sound effects are crisp and impactful, from the squeak of Cheesy’s footsteps to the menacing click of giant spider legs.

Although minor camera quirks occasionally rear their heads, they seldom detract from the overall enjoyment. Cheesy is an engaging adventure that will appeal to fans of both traditional platformers and those looking for a fresh spin with first-person elements. With its charming protagonist, varied level design, and playful tone, this title is a solid addition to any PlayStation collection seeking a dose of cheesy fun.