A FIN-TASTIC PORT.
A little over a year ago I reviewed Maneater on Xbox One. I enjoyed my time with the game, but it didn’t blow my mind. However, when I heard we had a Maneater on Switch coming in for review I asked for it because this would be my first time playing a Switch port of a game I already played that wasn’t just a 2D game. I expected either a fantastic port or a disaster.
To say I am impressed with this port would be an understatement.
PLATFORMS: SWITCH, PS4, PS5, XB1, XSX, PC
MSRP: $39.99
PRICE I’D PAY: $39.99
When starting up the game the company logos seem to stutter which had me worried but as soon as those are over the game ran fine. In fact, switching between the Xbox One version and the Switch version I noticed very few differences with the most notable difference being lighting effects. I realize I am comparing the oldest version of the previous generation hardware next to the Switch but looking at other Switch ports there are usually a lot more compromises. That’s not as much of an issue here.
I actually found the cutscenes in the game ran better on Switch with the Xbox One version having some weird visual effects happen, but this is also where I could see the graphical differences between the two versions the most and to Maneater’s credit, the stylized human design definitely minimized the disparity. I even noticed that the pause menu is done in such a way to not tax the system (Xbox One is a translucent overlay on top of the paused gameplay with the menu while the Switch version changes to an opaque screen).
Maneater is still paced oddly with the game generally starting off as more of a challenge and ending with an overpowered shark that has little to fear (an issue I think any game dealing with an evolving animal is going to come across). The combat, particularly the lock on system, still isn’t perfect but fun enough. Lots of finding collectibles and collecting resources to level up that plays like a collect-a-thon mixed with Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater with flight controls.
Maneater is still one of a kind experience and if this is the only way to play it I think this is a really well done port that deserves the $40 price tag; just note that the Switch version doesn’t appear to be getting the DLC that other platforms will be getting later this year.
Review copy of game provided by publisher.
