The Karate Kid: Street Rumble is a new brawler game available on the Nintendo Switch that takes players back to the pastel-hued streets of mid-’80s Reseda, California. The game features a cast of characters that are reminiscent of a Gashapon vending machine, with squat, cartoony sprites that are well-animated and visually appealing.
Players can choose from four characters, including Daniel Russo, Mr. Miyagi, Ali, and Kimiko, each offering unique abilities and playstyles. The game progresses through 12 stages, each with secondary objectives for completionists to tackle. Characters level up as you play, making special moves flashier and adding to the attack sequence.
Combat in The Karate Kid: Street Rumble is satisfying, with various combos and special moves to master. However, the game lacks a bit of adrenaline-fueled pace and can feel repetitive at times. The lack of interactive objects and weak sound design also detract from the overall experience.
While the game is enjoyable, especially for fans of the Karate Kid movies and Cobra Kai TV series, it falls short in some areas. The lack of online multiplayer mode is a missed opportunity, and the replay value is somewhat limited once the game is completed. However, the local multiplayer option adds some fun to the mix.
Overall, The Karate Kid: Street Rumble is a visually appealing brawler game with solid combat mechanics. While it may not offer the same level of excitement as some other titles in the genre, it’s a decent option for fans of the source material looking for some nostalgic beat ’em up action. Just remember, whether you choose to wax on or wax off, the decision is up to you.