Developer:
Pippin Games
Publisher:
Pippin Games
Genre:
Beat em’ Up, Arcade
Price:
$9.99, $14.99
Release Date:
Sep 23, 2024
Where to buy:
Steam, PSN, Epic, Switch JPN
Maiden Cops is an unapologetic love letter to the classic arcade beat ’em up, and it succeeds by not only emulating its inspirations but also adding its own distinct flair. The game’s core lies in its combat, which is both accessible and surprisingly deep. While it adheres to the genre’s familiar formula of side-scrolling, enemy-bashing action, it introduces nuanced mechanics like a well-timed block and a variety of special moves for each of the three playable characters. This depth, combined with an array of throwable weapons and a grapple system, ensures that the combat remains engaging and avoids the feeling of a mindless grind. The game’s two distinct modes, “Maiden Cops Classic” with unlimited credits and the more challenging “Maiden Cops Arcade” with limited lives, cater to both casual players and those seeking a true arcade experience.
The game’s most immediately striking feature is its stunning pixel art. From the character sprites to the environmental details, the visuals are vibrant, well-animated, and full of personality. The three heroines—Priscilla, Nina, and Meiga—are distinct in both their visual design and their fighting styles, and their animations are fluid and expressive. The enemy designs are also varied and well-executed, with a wide range of “monster girls” to fight across the seven different locations. This visual excellence, coupled with a fitting retro soundtrack, makes Maiden Cops a treat for the eyes and ears, effectively capturing the nostalgic feel of a 16-bit era classic while benefiting from modern polish.
While the narrative in a beat ’em up is typically secondary, Maiden Cops presents a simple yet charming story. The plot follows the titular Maiden Cops as they fight to protect Maiden City from a secret criminal organization known as “The Liberators.” The story is conveyed through well-crafted pixelated cutscenes that, while straightforward, help to give the game a sense of purpose. The three main characters are more than just archetypes; they each have their own personalities and banter that add a touch of humor and lightheartedness to the experience. For players who are more interested in getting straight to the action, the option to skip cutscenes is a welcome addition.
One aspect of Maiden Cops that is impossible to ignore is its heavy use of fan service. The game is upfront about its focus on “monster girls” and “waifus,” with character designs that feature suggestive clothing and poses. This “cheeky” tone permeates the game, from the characters’ dialogue to the unlockable outfits. For some players, this will be a major selling point, while for others, it may be a turn-off. However, reviews suggest that the game’s excellent gameplay and presentation prevent it from feeling like a shallow cash-in. The fan service, while constant, is presented with a self-aware, almost comical tone that fits the game’s pulpy aesthetic.
In conclusion, Maiden Cops is a highly satisfying and polished beat ’em up that delivers on its promises. It successfully pays homage to genre classics like Streets of Rage and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge while carving out its own identity through deep combat mechanics and a distinctive art style. The game’s short length is offset by its high replayability, with a variety of unlockables, score challenges, and the incentive to try each character. While the fan service may not appeal to everyone, the game’s overall quality and fun factor are undeniable. For fans of retro brawlers, Maiden Cops is an arresting addition to the genre that is well worth its price.
