Deadbeat Heroes (2017)

Deadbeat Heroes plunges players into a vibrant London where the city's celebrated superheroes have been vanquished, leaving only a new wave of unlikely champions to confront dastardly evil-doers. This energetic 3D brawler emphasizes fluid movement, requiring players, either solo or with a friend, to master dodging bullets, strategically stealing super powers, and delivering quick-witted remarks. As a "Deadbeat Hero," you lack inherent abilities, instead wielding a prototype super gauntlet that allows you to "borrow" the explosive powers of your foes, from rocket-powered punches to freeze rays. Across over 35 distinct London levels, extreme traversal abilities like wall runs and air dashes are essential for navigating the urban landscape and proving your daring to the public, all while avoiding an array of hazards that threaten to slice, laser, or even vaporize you. The game shines with its local campaign co-op for one or two players, fostering synergistic gameplay as you and a friend vie to save the city. It further distinguishes itself with innovative Twitch streaming integration, where chat messages scroll through the in-game news ticker, viewers can become unique enemy characters, and are even featured in the end-of-level credits. A groovy cell-shaded aesthetic masterfully injects 70s style into the 21st century, perfectly complemented by a funky original soundtrack from Pitstop Productions and the vocal talents of Jim Howick. Deadbeat Heroes earns its spot among the best games by Square Enix by exemplifying the publisher's commitment through Square Enix Collective to championing unique, high-quality indie experiences that push creative boundaries within the superhero genre, delivering a memorable and stylish brawling adventure.