JustAxe takes me back to the glory days of Adobe Flash games, reminiscent of the time spent on Newgrounds or Kongregate. It’s a simple and brief platformer boasting the same silky controls and fluid gameplay you might recall from those Flash classics. However, folks who haven’t dabbled in these retro gems might find themselves a bit put off by the somewhat clunky movement and oddball physics that feel dated for a console release in 2024.
Take the enemies in JustAxe, for example. They’re absolutely relentless in their pursuit of Martha, our protagonist. Their determination is almost comedic, as they’ll happily leap into traps and tumble into abysses just to reach her. And when they get their claws—or whatever it is—on Martha, the physics go out the window. Martha is pushed several yards away, defying the laws of physics in a very Flash-like manner.
Navigating the world of JustAxe also has that distinct Flash-game flair. Martha’s moves—running, jumping, and wielding her trusty axe—all seem a bit off in terms of fluidity. There’s a point in one level where Martha should realistically plunge into oblivion from a fall, yet instead, she bounces off a spiky hill, merely sustaining damage each time. These quirks make the game feel unfinished and a bit rough around the edges.
Despite these quirks, JustAxe isn’t exactly a marathon. Clocking in at around three hours, it’s hardly a demanding adventure. The story doesn’t venture too deep, but that’s not unexpected for this type of game. It’s perfect for those idle moments, like a long commute or a less-than-thrilling family meal. It provides a needed escape, drawing you into its slightly frustrating world to overcome its tricky levels and persistent foes.
This review is crafted from a retail copy provided by the game’s publisher.
