Nuclear Blaze Review (TwentyOne)
NOTE ABOUT LINUX PLAYABILITY:
While the store page says that the game runs on Linux, it doesn't really have a fully functioning working port yet as of today (2022-12-25).
There's a linux-capable executable in the files that works like a charm when started from the folder (apart from that it sometimes doesn't recognizes the controller and that you can't open the steam overlay in-game), but won't start if you start it from steam itself, even as a non-steam game. Proton works like a charm, as long as you choose OpenGL over DirectX on startup.
Nuclear Blaze is that sort of game where you feel like replaying it all over again right when you end it.
Not only because of the collectables (cats, more of that later), but also because it was so much fun and challenging that makes you feel you need just a little bit of extra content.
It also has a kid mode, so even if you have someone who rarely plays games or hasn't really played much before (e.g. kids), they can get some enjoyment out of the game thanks to a set of separate and simplified levels.
The mechanics are rather straightforward, and the upgrades are just as simple; What they add are just normal features, which is why you get them so early on (apart from one, and even then it's just a water tank size upgrade and nothing more). The main challenge comes how you tackle the fires however. Fire will spread to nearby surfaces and might reignite areas you already extinguished. It might sound daunting, but the game mechanics don't make it too tough to at least survive, especially since it's easy to keep you alive (apart from those semi-timed segments, but those are always rather short).
Also, this game makes collectables pretty neat. While some cats are really hidden away, you'll know when there is one in the level thanks to these little tunnels at the end of each level. The game also always lets you backtrack enough into a level that finding the cat is always possible even when you already can leave the level.
The "Hold My Beer" mode (AKA new game+) adds some extra challenges, such as autoturrets, less effective help from the levels and changed level layouts. It makes the game a bit more enjoyable to replay it.
The only criticisms I have is that for one, it really needs a level editor, as the game's levels just isn't quite enough I feel and I would love to play more of it. Another one is that the last segment is a bit meh, simply because it's less conventional compared to the other levels and it's sort of cheesable. But even at full price this game is great.