TGS 2024 | "Vikings on Trampolines"
On the surface, D-Pad Studio's Vikings on Trampolines looks easy. But when you and three other players dive into the game, you realize quickly that easy is not in this game’s dictionary. Fortunately, from what I experienced at the Tokyo Game Show, it’s a lot more fun than it is difficult to master.
I had the opportunity to experience two different modes with the developers of Vikings on Trampolines. First was multiplayer battle mode, where you must be the last on a trampoline to be victorious. There are no button mechanics, as you simply move your control stick to attempt to land on one of those bouncy thingies. However, you can collect weapons or power-ups that’ll help you knock off your opponents, such as battle axes and inflatable magic.
In this mode, I was able to try out three different kind of levels. A simple stationary area was good to get a feel of the gameplay mechanics. But things got a whole lot tougher when you attempt to stay afloat in the movable areas. A roller coaster level has trampolines moving about and splitting from the rest of the pack. Similar to that was a tower level, which constantly spun around as you tried to land on each windowsill. All three of these levels showcased a lot of competitive styles, on top of a plethora of fun!
However, if you and your friends aren’t in the mood to compete, you can tackle on the story mode, which has its fair share of boss battles. I attempted two different bosses, the first being a bird commandeering a robot. Smashing on its head enough will send it flying, with each hit bringing it close to defeat. It was an easy fight, but it did not prepare me for the true challenge: a massive whale that not only eliminated me quickly, but also the developers that were playing along!
Despite tasting defeat, Vikings on Trampolines was a blast to play! It has a lot of potential of being a terrific party game to play with your friends. With its humor and kooky style — on top of its simple-yet-challenging gameplay — these bouncy soldiers are bound to send your crazy comrades straight to Asgard! Vikings on Trampolines is due out in 2025 on PC and consoles. Frothy goblets of beer sold separately.