Rough And Ready River City Girls Bring Retro Scrolling Beat ‘Em Up Action To Nintendo Switch And PC 9/5
WayForward is prepping a new entry in the long-running River City / Kunio-Kun series that will bring old-school, side-scrolling action to a new generation of gamers. Called River City Girls, the new game features a pair of female high school protagonists fighting through six regions of River City. Looking at the trailer, I'm somewhat reminded of the Double Dragon series of yesteryear.
In River City Girls, however, Kyoko and Misako are attempting to rescue their kidnapped boyfriends, Kunio and Riki. Players can go at it solo, or enlist a friend for local co-op gameplay. Either way, you will be treated to 16-bit style graphics and an "epic synth-pop soundtrack" featuring NateWantsToBattle, Chipzel, Christina Vee, and Megan McDuffee.
WayForward is promising an "arsenal of combos, counters, throws, and special attacks." The game will also feature an assortment of enemies and numerous side quests. Players gain experience points along the way to level up their character. They can also interact with NPCs, including guest starts from past River City games, and shop for a variety of items (food and gear to boost stats an unlock new abilities).
In an interesting twist, Kyoko and Misako are able to recruit defeated foes to join them in combat. It's not clear how long their newfound allies will remain in battle—a set period of time or until their health runs out—but it is a neat twist to the typical side-scrolling beat-'em-up.
The 16-bit graphics and style of gameplay look especially suited for Nintendo's Switch console, and indeed River City Girls will be releasing to that handheld. It will also be available on PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, and PC, all on September 5. The digital version will sell for $29.99. Pricing and available for physical copies will be announced at a later date.
