Thirsty Suitors Review: "I'm Jala Goddamn Jayaratne!" - A Knockout Rom-Com Brawler

 

Thirsty Suitors, the zany, colorful, and surprisingly deep combat RPG from Outerloop Games, throws punches as wild as its protagonist's flamboyant personality. Jala Jayaratne, a tracksuit-clad, trash-talking champion kickboxer, finds herself facing down not just a gauntlet of competitive suitors, but also her own messy past and complicated family relationships. Buckle up for a review that packs as much wallop as Jala's signature roundhouse kick.

Combat that Hits Hard: At its core, Thirsty Suitors is a satisfying brawler. Each punch, kick, and taunt feels impactful, and mastering Jala's diverse moveset is a joy. Learning how to weave between combos, utilize crowd-pleasing taunts for stat boosts, and exploit enemy weaknesses turns fights into tactical ballets. The RPG elements add depth, letting you customize Jala's skills and stats to fit your playstyle. Whether you're a graceful dodger or a brawler who likes to get up close and personal, Thirsty Suitors caters to your inner fighting game champion.

More Than Just Fists: Beyond the beatdowns, Thirsty Suitors shines with its writing and characters. Jala's voice actress, Erika Ishii, delivers every line with infectious energy and wit. The supporting cast, including a flamboyant ice skater, a brooding rival, and a lovestruck robot chef, are equally memorable and their stories intertwine with Jala's in unexpected ways. The game tackles complex themes like queer identity, familial pressures, and dealing with past trauma, but balances them with humor and charm. You'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll cheer Jala on as she fights for her future, both in the ring and in life.

Visuals and Sound that Pop: The vibrant, hand-drawn animation bursts with personality. Each character is full of life, and the backgrounds are rich with detail. The soundtrack is a genre-bending mix of electronica, Bollywood beats, and even some karaoke tunes, perfectly capturing the game's eclectic charm.

Knocking Out Some Minor Flaws: While Thirsty Suitors shines in many areas, it's not without its flaws. The story, while engaging, can feel slightly uneven at times, and some side quests can be repetitive. Navigating the overworld can also be a bit clunky, though not enough to detract from the overall experience.

Verdict: Thirsty Suitors is a knockout combination of satisfying combat, witty writing, and diverse characters. It's a game that throws punches with both its fists and its heart, delivering an experience that's as funny as it is thought-provoking. If you're looking for a unique and engaging RPG with a fighting game twist, Thirsty Suitors is a surefire win.

Final Score: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Recommendation: For fans of quirky RPGs, charming characters, and satisfying beatdowns. Thirsty Suitors is a game that will leave you cheering for Jala and wanting more.