Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Wild 9 delivers frantic 2D platforming action bolstered by its signature weapon, The Rig. You’ll guide Wex Major through ten increasingly inventive levels, using the electronic lasso to grab, toss, and smash enemies at will. This mechanic transforms basic run-and-jump sequences into dynamic puzzle-platform challenges, as you manipulate environmental objects to clear paths or uncover hidden areas.

Boss encounters punctuate the stages, demanding quick reflexes and clever use of The Rig’s abilities. Whether it’s snaring a towering robot or swinging a fallen column to crush a looming foe, each showdown emphasizes experimentation. The controls feel tight and responsive, making it satisfying to wrap The Rig around an enemy’s neck before flinging them offscreen in a burst of sparks.

Beyond combat, the levels are peppered with platforming obstacles—moving platforms, collapsing floors, and timing-based traps—that keep the pace brisk. Some stages even shift focus to pure obstacle avoidance, testing your precision as you leap across rotating gears or rocket-propelled conveyor belts. While a few segments can grow slightly repetitive, the constant introduction of new gadgets and level layouts helps maintain momentum.

Graphics

Visually, Wild 9 marries 2D sprite design with pre-rendered 3D backgrounds, creating a distinct art style that still feels charming decades later. Character sprites are expressive and full of personality, with Wex’s exaggerated poses and mutant companions offering memorable flair. The vibrant color palette brings alien worlds to life, from neon-lit spaceports to lush, bioluminescent jungles.

The Rig itself stands out in motion, its electric tendrils shimmering as you twist and launch foes across the screen. Bosses and larger set-pieces, like towering mechanical monstrosities, showcase high-quality pre-rendered models that contrast sharply with the pixel art, adding depth without sacrificing clarity. Particle effects—sparks, energy blasts, and smoke—further enliven battles and platforming sequences.

Despite being a mid-’90s release, frame rates remain smooth on modern hardware, and the backgrounds are detailed enough to reward exploration. Subtle animations—swirling clouds, shifting shadows, and blinking control panels—give each stage a living, breathing feel. Occasional slowdown during the most intense moments is rare and doesn’t detract significantly from the overall visual experience.

Story

Wild 9’s narrative revolves around Wex Major, an Earth teenager thrust into galactic warfare when aliens abduct his parents. Upon discovering The Rig—a powerful electronic lasso designed to shift the tide of oppression—Wex is proclaimed The Great Champion. His mission: liberate the Andromeda Galaxy from the rampaging monster Karn and its legion of mechanical beasts.

As leader of the titular Wild 9, Wex recruits a ragtag squad of teenage mutants, each with unique abilities that complement The Rig’s flexibility. Although the storyline unfolds with minimal cutscenes, the game’s dialogue bubbles and character banter inject humor and charm into every stage. Moments of levity soften the urgency of the quest, making the journey feel both epic and playful.

While the plot isn’t overly complex, it effectively frames each level’s objectives. From infiltrating enemy strongholds to rescuing captured allies, the narrative motivation remains clear and motivating. For players who appreciate story-driven platformers, the combination of lighthearted banter and high stakes offers just the right balance of adventure and fun.

Overall Experience

Wild 9 stands out as a creative spin on classic platformers, blending tight controls with an imaginative physics-based weapon. The Rig’s versatility keeps gameplay fresh, encouraging you to approach obstacles and enemies in multiple ways. Whether you’re solving environmental puzzles or engaging in boss battles, each challenge feels thoughtfully designed.

The game’s unique aesthetic—a mix of 2D sprites and 3D backgrounds—remains appealing, supported by vibrant colors and smooth animations. Combined with an upbeat soundtrack and comedic flair, Wild 9 delivers an immersive retro experience that still holds up today. While a few levels border on repetitive, the overall pacing and variety ensure you stay engaged from start to finish.

For fans of Earthworm Jim and other mid-’90s platformers, Wild 9 offers a refreshing twist with its physics-driven mechanics and offbeat story. Its moderate difficulty curve makes it accessible to newcomers, yet seasoned veterans will appreciate mastering The Rig’s full potential. All told, Wild 9 is a memorable adventure that deserves a place in any retro gaming collection.

Retro Replay Score

7.6/10