Developed by Snoozy Kazoo and published by Graffiti Games, Turnip Boy Robs a Bank is as comical as it is anarchic. The sequel to Turnip Boy Commits Tax Evasion comes loaded with fresh and immersive gameplay mechanics.
Meanwhile, the rogue-like elements and horrific bullet hell chaos add an unimaginable charm to the adventure.
While Snoozy Kazoo scaled back some of the amazing aspects that made the previous game special and fascinating, Turnip Boy remains one of the weirdest anti-heroes in the thrilling and exciting world of indie gaming.
Botanical Bank Heist
Originally released in 2023 for Android and iOS, Turnip Boy Robs a Bank follows hot on the heels of the first game’s events. Turnip Boy now finds himself drawn into the world of organized crime. He teams up with the infamous Pickled Gang to stage a series of escalating heists against the Botanical Bank.
What began as a simple robbery quickly turns into a complicated criminal enterprise involving cryptocurrency scams, secret government experiments, and a sentient bank security AI with a vendetta.
While the narrative of Turnip Boy Robs a Bank remains light-hearted and comical, it cleverly weaves in satire about capitalism, startup culture, and online meme culture. The game’s writing style is one of its strongest elements, delivering laugh-out-loud dialogue and clever fourth-wall breaks.
A Fascinating Blend of Systems
Gameplay in Turnip Boy Robs a Bank blends traditional top-down shooter mechanics with rogue-lite progression systems. Each heist begins with you entering a procedurally generated floor of the Botanical Bank. This is an area filled with enemies, loot, and randomized objectives. The further you go, the harder it gets.
Combat is fast-paced and chaotic. You’ll find and unlock a variety of weapons ranging from the practical (like shotguns and rifles) to the absurd (such as crypto miners that damage enemies with overclocked GPU heat). Each weapon feels distinct and encourages different playstyles.
Dying is part of the loop. After each failed heist, you keep some of your loot. The reserved loot allows you to upgrade Turnip Boy’s health, gear and access to new areas. The rogue-like structure keeps the game addictive and replayable. However, some players may find the repetition a bit grindy after extended sessions.
Electrifying and Entertaining Cast
Turnip Boy Robs a Bank’s cast is as eclectic and entertaining as ever. Turnip Boy himself is silent, mischievous and always ready to commit another ridiculous felony. His actions often speak louder than words, and his expressions and animations carry much of the humor.
Meanwhile, The Pickled Gang serves as Turnip Boy’s criminal crew. They provide missions, upgrades, and comic relief. Each member, from the unhinged Pickle Paul to the paranoid conspiracist Cucumber Carl, brings their quirks and backstories.
We also can’t forget Gem Apple, a mysterious ex-bank manager who is now a rogue. She offers guidance and insight into the deeper corruption behind the Botanical Bank. Her storyline adds surprising emotional depth.
Finally, there is Bank Security AI, which is a semi-antagonist. It deploys increasingly ridiculous countermeasures as you climb the floors. Its commentary on surveillance and automation is delivered with tongue firmly in cheek.
Awe-inspiring Aesthetics
Turnip Boy Robs a Bank retains the charming pixel art aesthetic of its predecessor. This time, however, the aesthetics are more polished and the animations are very detailed. Each bank floor is thematically distinct. The themes range from modern vaults and hacker dens to bizarre underground labs.
Meanwhile, Turnip Boy Robs a Bank’s sound design is just exceptional. The soundtrack is filled with energetic chip-tune tracks and relaxed beats. These tracks shift in tone depending on the chaos level.
In addition, weapon effects are punchy and explosive. Besides, every explosion and enemy groan adds to the game’s delightful madness.
Final Verdict
Turnip Boy Robs a Bank is a chaotic, clever and endlessly entertaining successor to a cherished indie title. It not only takes bold, creative risks but also delivers consistent laughs. Besides, it manages to keep gameplay fresh despite its repetitiveness. It’s a game I highly recommend for hardcore indie fans.
Is it Hardcore?
Yes
Turnip Boy Robs a Bank is a chaotic, clever and endlessly entertaining successor to a cherished indie title. It not only takes bold, creative risks but also delivers consistent laughs. Besides, it manages to keep gameplay fresh despite its repetitiveness. It’s a game I highly recommend for hardcore indie fans.
