For many, the early seasons ofSpongeBob SquarePantsform a unique cultural touchstone. The show’s bizarre sense of humor, hilarious animation, and enjoyable cast are ingrained in the hearts of fans forever. Much of the show was perfectly translated into the originalBattle for Bikini Bottom, both in gameplay and tone. It is no surprise thatthe announcement ofSpongeBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom Rehydratedmade fans of the original game very happy.
The originalBattle for Bikini Bottomwas a platformer, like many other games of its era, that took players around Bikini Bottom. Robots had overrun most of the town at the behest of Plankton (of course), and Spongebob and Co. had to save the day. It looks likeBattle for Bikini Bottom Rehydratedwill be following the story and stages exactly, which makes sense since not a lot needs to change.
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There have been several gameplay trailers released forBattle for Bikini Bottom Rehydratedso far, most only a minute long. Thelongest shows off the Jellyfish Fields stage, which has received a massive update in graphics and environment. The same can be said for the most recent trailer, which shows the Goo Lagoon stage. Gameplay is largely unchanged from the original, as players carefully maneuver around platforms in caverns and on the pier, trying to avoid falling into the goo. The trailer shows both SpongeBob and Patrick gameplay, including Patrick’s ability to freeze the entire lagoon for a brief time.
The originalBattle for Bikini Bottomhad players switch between SpongeBob, Patrick, and Sandy to traverse levels, each with different skills. Much of Sandy’s gameplay is still shrouded in mystery, although it is safe to say it probably remains unchanged. One thing that has not been made clear ishow characters will play inRehydrated’s new multiplayer mode. Will they keep their unique mechanics, and will new characters have their own, or will everyone play the same?
The multiplayer also features a giant robotic Squidward, another new addition to the game, possibly a new boss fight. Another trailer has confirmed allthe oldBattle for Bikini Bottombosses are returning, presumably with the same patterns and humor. There is a good chance that anyone who knows how to beat the originals will know how to beat the new bosses as well.
Some might be disappointed that aside from a visual refresh, there are few changes coming to the newBattle Rehydrated. It’s worth remembering that the original is one of the best SpongeBob games for a reason though, and is still popular today. When most of the other options areSpongeBob mobile games, a remake of a beloved classic is a great boon.
SpobgeBob SquarePants: Battle for Bikini Bottom Rehydratedwill be released for Nintendo Switch, PC, PlayStation 4, and XboX One on June 23.
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