Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge Review

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge, developed by Tribute Games and published by Dotemu (under license from Nickelodeon), burst onto the scene in 2022, including a vibrant release on the PlayStation 5 (PS5). This game isn’t just a nostalgic trip; it’s a meticulously crafted love letter to the classic TMNT arcade games and 16-bit beat ’em ups, delivering a modern yet authentically retro experience. This Shredder’s Revenge PS5 review explores why it’s a must-play for fans of the Heroes in a Half-Shell.

Gameplay: Fluid Combat and 6-Player Chaos

Shredder’s Revenge on the PS5 takes the foundational beat ’em up mechanics of games like *Turtles in Time* and refines them to perfection. Players choose from a diverse roster including Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, Raphael, and unlockable characters like Splinter, April O’Neil, and Casey Jones. Each character feels distinct, with unique moves, combos, and super attacks.

Combat is incredibly fluid and satisfying. Simple button presses unleash a flurry of attacks, but the game also introduces modern conveniences like dodging, parrying, and powerful special moves that can be charged and unleashed. The true magic lies in the multiplayer: supporting up to 6 players simultaneously (both local co-op and online multiplayer), the screen becomes a delightful explosion of ninja action. The chaos is managed surprisingly well, and teamwork is implicitly encouraged through shared health and revive mechanics. The PS5 ensures a rock-solid 60 frames per second, making every punch, kick, and pizza toss feel incredibly responsive. The DualSense controller adds subtle haptic feedback, making each hit feel impactful.

• Fluid, modern beat ’em up combat mechanics
• Seven distinct playable characters with unique movesets
• Unprecedented 6-player local and online co-op
• Challenging yet fair boss battles
• Fast-paced action at a smooth 60 FPS on PS5

Story and Setting: Classic Cartoon Fun

The narrative of TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge is pure Saturday morning cartoon bliss. Shredder and Krang are up to their usual nefarious schemes, attempting to conquer the world with the help of the Foot Clan and a host of classic villains. It’s a simple, charming plot that serves as a perfect vehicle for the action.

The game takes players through iconic locations from the TMNT universe, from the sewers of New York City to Dimension X, each meticulously recreated with vibrant pixel art. Every stage is filled with recognizable enemies, environmental gags, and hidden secrets that reward exploration.

Graphics and Sound: A Retro Masterpiece

Visually, Shredder’s Revenge is a triumph. The pixel art style is simply gorgeous, blending the nostalgic charm of 16-bit graphics with modern animation techniques and vibrant colors. Character sprites are large, expressive, and incredibly well-animated, making every move pop off the screen.

The soundtrack is a highlight, featuring an incredible mix of original compositions by Tee Lopes (known for his work on *Sonic Mania*) and remixes of classic TMNT tunes. The game also features the authentic voice acting from the original 1987 cartoon cast, including the iconic “Cowabunga!” catchphrase, which adds immense nostalgic value.

Legacy: A Perfect Revival

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge is more than just a great beat ’em up; it’s a perfect example of how to revive a beloved franchise with respect, innovation, and unwavering passion. It has been widely praised as one of the best games in the genre in years and a definitive TMNT game.

Is TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge on PS5 Worth Playing Today?

Absolutely. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge on PS5 is a must-play for fans of the Turtles, beat ’em ups, and retro gaming. Its fluid combat, stunning pixel art, incredible soundtrack, and unparalleled 6-player co-op make it an endlessly fun and replayable experience. It’s a true gaming masterpiece and a shining example of how to deliver a modern classic.