- Core Concept: A high-energy blend of extreme sports mechanics and anime-style train piloting.
- Key Mechanic: Complex trick inputs mapped to the analog stick, functioning like fighting game combos.
- Campaign Length: Approximately 10 to 15 hours of content spanning diverse, imaginative environments across Japan.
- Progression Loop: Collect parts, customize train stats, and defeat rival gangs to recruit their leaders.
- Replay Value: High, driven by optional level dares, score medals, and hidden path exits.
An Overview of the Denshattack Universe
This denshattack review breaks down an indie title that feels like a spiritual successor to the quirky, high-concept games of the PlayStation 2 era. The game masterfully combines the momentum-based trick systems of classic skating titles with the vibrant, rebellious aesthetic of street culture games. Players control Emmy, an energetic protagonist who delivers ramen by train in a futuristic Japan ravaged by climate change.
The narrative centers on Emmy's journey through the underground sport of train-tricking, challenging rival gangs and opposing Morita, a monopoly megacorporation that controls the protective dome cities. It is a classic punk rock story powered by friendship, momentum, and spectacular mechanical designs.
Video Highlights:
- Concept Pitch: Tony Hawk's Pro Skater meets Jet Set Radio with high-speed trains.
- Narrative Structure: Classic anime progression featuring rival gangs and corporate sabotage.
- Visual Style: Stunning, colorful cel-shaded art paired with a high-energy soundtrack.
| Feature | Description | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Art Style | Cel-shaded anime aesthetic with expressive character models | ★★★★★ |
| Soundtrack | Catchy, high-energy electronic and punk rock tracks | ★★★★★ |
| Story | Lighthearted, classic anime-inspired rebel narrative | ★★★★☆ |
| Performance | Smooth frame rates essential for precise trick timing | ★★★★☆ |
Pay close attention to the environmental cues. Many levels feature interactive elements triggered by honking your horn or hitting specific ramps at maximum boost.
Mastering the Deep Trick and Combo System
The core gameplay centers on piloting a high-speed train capable of jumping, grinding, wall-riding, and performing complex aerial maneuvers. Tricks are mapped directly to the right analog stick. Simple directional clicks execute basic moves, while advanced aerials require half-circle or quarter-circle motions reminiscent of traditional fighting games.
Chaining these moves together is essential for high scores. However, repeating the same trick diminishes its value, forcing players to diversify their inputs. The game features a comprehensive "tricktionary" that can be accessed at any time to review input commands and refine your combos.
| Trick Tier | Input Complexity | Score Potential | Best Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic | Simple directional clicks | Low | Initiating combos, quick gaps |
| Intermediate | Quarter-circle inputs | Medium | Mid-air transitions, short rails |
| Advanced | Half-circle/Full-circle combos | High | Massive air time, canyon jumps |
| Special | Complex multi-button strings | Maximum | Rainbow road transitions |
Trick Diversity
Avoid repeating the same inputs. Stale tricks quickly reduce your score multiplier, making variety essential.
Manual Transitions
Use manuals and grinds to keep your combo chain alive when transitioning between tracks or landing.
Energy Management
Fill your energy bar to unlock the Yao Yorozu, high-flying rainbow tracks that lead to secret areas.
Mistakes do not end your run, but derailments and crashes will cost valuable time and instantly reset your active combo multiplier.
Train Customization and Strategic Selection
As you progress through the 10 to 15-hour campaign, you collect currency, spray cans, stickers, and train parts. These collectibles allow you to purchase and customize new trains. Each vehicle features distinct performance trade-offs, making train selection a highly strategic choice depending on your level goals.
| Train Model | Stat Advantages | Stat Disadvantages | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trick Speedster | Fast trick execution, quick rotation | Reduced manual distance | Score attack runs |
| Energy Harvester | Accelerated energy bar generation | Reduced base trick score | Accessing secret routes |
| Heavy Grinder | High stability, long grind retention | Slow acceleration | Precision platforming |
| Balanced Express | Moderate stats across all categories | No specialized bonuses | First-time level exploration |
Analyze the Level Objectives
Review the stage dares and score targets before selecting your train model.
Equip Performance Parts
Tune your train's stats to balance out any inherent disadvantages for the upcoming tracks.
Execute and Adjust
If you struggle with a specific time trial or score threshold, swap to a specialized train model.
Don't forget to take photos for Fernando's zine during missions. Completing these zines provides rich lore, character backgrounds, and humorous ramen reviews.
Campaign Challenges and Endgame Goals
Every stage in the game is packed with optional challenges, branching paths, and hidden collectibles. Achieving mastery requires replaying levels with different strategies and optimized train setups.
Campaign Mastery Checklist:
- Complete all 10-15 hours of the main story campaign
- Earn Gold medals on all time trials and score attacks
- Unlock every playable train model and performance part
- Complete all optional dares and stage photo opportunities
- Discover all hidden exits and alternative rainbow tracks
The campaign features highly creative boss fights, including showdowns with combining Megazord-style trains, giant mechanical sand snakes, and moving castles equipped with massive cannons.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How difficult is the learning curve in this game?
The learning curve can be steep initially due to the fighting-game-style inputs required for advanced tricks. However, the generous checkpoints and the helpful 'tricktionary' make the game accessible to players of all skill levels.
Q: How long does it take to complete the main campaign?
A standard playthrough of the campaign takes roughly 10 to 15 hours. Completing all optional dares, finding hidden exits, and earning gold medals can easily double that play time.
Q: What are the benefits of unlocking the Yao Yorozu tracks?
The Yao Yorozu, or 8 million roads, are alternate rainbow-colored tracks in the sky. Reaching them allows you to bypass difficult obstacles, collect rare parts, and secure massive score multipliers.
Q: Is there a penalty for crashing or derailing your train?
Crashing does not end your run or cause a game over. It only costs you valuable time, which impacts your final time medal, and resets your active combo score multiplier.