Anomaly Agent, a side-scrolling beat-em-up/platformer, caught my attention with its retro flair and smooth moves. As a "vintage gamer," I'm drawn to titles that evoke a sense of nostalgia, and this game does exactly that. While the pixel graphics and side-scrolling action are reminiscent of classic 16-bit era games, I’m happy to say that Anomaly Agent offers much more.

The gameplay starts off as a familiar action-packed adventure, with a limited set of moves for punching and kicking enemies while doing some occasional platforming. However, the game soon introduces new abilities, such as blocking incoming fire and wielding a gun, which enhance the combat experience… and that’s just the beginning. These regular additions to your repertoire are essential, as the foes and bosses you encounter become increasingly challenging (and weird) as you progress.

What sets Anomaly Agent apart is its steady progression of optional upgrades, techniques, and challenges. These elements elevate the game from merely good to truly exceptional. The game consistently surprises you with new skills and then forces you to adapt and utilize them in a variety of ways. While it can be frustrating at times, the promise of worthwhile upcoming rewards will help keep you motivated to overcome obstacles.

In addition to its engaging gameplay, Anomaly Agent also boasts a compelling story. While it follows some familiar beats, it offers a fair share of unexpected twists and surprises, making it a well-rounded and satisfying package. Put it all together and you’ve got a banger of a retro-ish title that has plenty of smart modern refinements and touches.