If you grew up mashing buttons on TMNT: Turtles in Time or dropping quarters into arcade machines just to fight Shredder one more time, Shredder’s Revenge is exactly what you’ve been waiting for.
But this isn’t just a nostalgia play—it’s a modern reimagining of what made the Turtles games so special, packed with fluid gameplay, slick visuals, and enough pizza-fueled action to make you shout “Cowabunga!” at least once per level.
Whether you’re a retro beat-em-up fan or just love the Turtles, this game is pure, unfiltered fun.
The Hook:
It’s like Dotemu and Tribute Games snuck into your childhood memories, grabbed all the best parts of TMNT games, polished them with modern gaming magic, and left the clunky mechanics back in the 90s.
The result?
A beat-em-up that respects its roots but feels fresh, fast, and utterly satisfying.
The Good:
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Classic Arcade Gameplay, Modernized:
Shredder’s Revenge nails the arcade feel with tight, responsive controls and that sweet, sweet combo flow. But it doesn’t stop there—there are modern touches like unique character moves, super attacks, and a revival mechanic for co-op play. You’ll feel like a pro ninja in no time. -
Playable Characters Galore:
Not only can you play as the four Turtles, but Splinter, April, and Casey Jones join the fight, each with their own move sets and stats. Casey’s over-the-top hockey stick attacks are a personal favorite, but the variety ensures you’ll find someone who fits your playstyle. -
Drop-in, Drop-out Co-op:
The game shines in multiplayer. Whether local or online, up to six players can join the chaos. It’s absolute mayhem in the best way, with screen-filling combos and laughter-inducing friendly fire moments (looking at you, Michelangelo). -
The Soundtrack Slaps:
The music, composed by Tee Lopes (Sonic Mania), is an absolute bop. It’s a mix of retro beats and high-energy modern tracks that keep the adrenaline pumping. Oh, and did I mention there’s a Wu-Tang Clan track? Yeah, this game goes hard. -
Perfectly Captures TMNT’s Personality:
From the goofy quips to the expressive animations, Shredder’s Revenge oozes Turtle Power. The cutscenes and dialogue perfectly capture the lighthearted, pizza-obsessed charm of the 80s cartoon.
The Mixed:
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Length:
The game is about 2-3 hours long if you just run through the story mode, but arcade mode and unlocking Casey Jones add some replay value. Still, some players might wish for a longer campaign. -
Difficulty Curve:
While the game is accessible, even for newcomers, some bosses can feel like a brick wall on higher difficulties. It’s not a dealbreaker, but you might need a pizza or two to power through.
The Bad (Barely):
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Chaos in Multiplayer:
While six-player co-op is a blast, it can get a little too chaotic. Keeping track of your character amidst the flurry of explosions, super moves, and Foot Clan minions can be tough. It’s a small price to pay for the fun, though. -
Repetitive Gameplay:
It’s a beat-em-up, so the gameplay can get repetitive if you’re not a fan of the genre. That said, the unique moves and enemy variety help keep things fresh for most players.
Final Thoughts:
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge is a masterclass in how to honor a classic while bringing it into the modern era. It’s a blast from start to finish, and whether you’re playing solo or with friends, it’s impossible not to have fun. Sure, it’s not the longest game, but it’s packed with so much charm, energy, and Turtle Power that you’ll be coming back for more.
Rating: 9/10
It’s the ultimate pizza party—grab some friends, pick your favorite Turtle, and prepare to kick some shell!
What’s your take? Did Shredder’s Revenge bring you back to the arcade glory days? Or are you still mad about getting hit by Krang’s laser beams?
Let’s talk shell-shocking fun in the comments!