The Adventure Pals is a lighthearted adventure that’s as fun and as eccentric as its obvious inspirations. While it’s unfair to say that the new 2D platformer from developers Massive Monster is trying to ride the coat tails of Adventure Time, this game certainly takes much of its inspiration from the animated series and does a good job of replicating the spirit of the Cartoon Network giant too.

The Adventure Pals embarks with an optimistic boy accompanied by a giraffe and a whimsical pet rock. ‘Twas Wilton’s birthday when out of the blue, his Papa was abducted by Mr. B – a madman who transforms the elderly into…hot dogs. With the assistance of Sparkles the giraffe, Mr. Rock, and some peculiar friendships acquired along the way, putting an end Mr. B’s evil schemes and saving the world from an abomination have never been so delightful.

The Adventure Pals also has basic RPG elements, namely leveling up which unlocks new abilities. These range from Mr. Rock going out looking for treasure to being able to haggle and barter with shop keeps, ergo allowing for items to be purchased at a more reasonable price.

The Adventure Pals isn’t what I’d consider a challenging platformer, but bouncing off jelly-headed foes while escorting an adoring sleepy kitten to its cozy cot is enjoyable nonetheless. Fighting off the bad guys with a keyboard is somewhat permissible, but button smashing via controller is recommended by the creators from the get-go. The tight controls pave an easygoing escapade for Wilton and his besties. The responsive combat against fuming hot dogs and warrior dinosaurs develop an effective way to rack up combos. Destroying barrels, opening chests, or hack’n’slashing harmless critters grants Wilton the opportunity to rack up the coins. Every distinctive world exhibits a shop retailing necessities for Wilton’s voyage. Potions are essential, but bombs prevail as invaluable when Wilton finds himself in the thick of powerful enemies.

The Adventure Pals is pure joy for anyone of any age. The eccentric characters bring so much light into your life, along with their comical anecdotes and witty remarks. The gameplay is very laid-back, but hack'n'slashing funky foes makes you feel like a warrior nonetheless. An entertaining escapade follows Wilton, Sparkles the giraffe, and Mr. Rock, even if the challenges aren't, well, challenging.