Awesomenauts launched in 2012 as a fighting game built around fast duels between cartoon heroes and villains, and it still holds up as one of the best multiplayer games of its generation. Developed by Ronimo Games, the game splits into three characters per team and runs matches in short bursts, making it easy to jump in and play for ten minutes or stay for hours. The game earned a critical score of 7.2 out of 10, and that number feels about right after spending time with it again.
Trailer, via Ronimo Games.
The Three-Character Format
The core idea behind Awesomenauts is simple: each player controls a team of three characters, and the goal is to knock out the enemy team while protecting your own. Matches last about five minutes, which means a loss doesn’t sting too badly. That brevity is the game’s biggest strength.
The format forces players to think about balance. Sending a single character to chase a kill while the other two sit back can lose a match quickly. The game rewards communication between teammates, and the best matches happen when everyone moves as a unit. The three-character format also keeps matches interesting, since each player has to manage all three characters during a single fight.
Character Variety
There are dozens of characters to choose from, each with their own set of abilities. Some are fast and agile, others are slow but strong. The variety is wide enough that players can find a build that suits their playstyle.
Each character has a primary attack, a secondary attack, and a special ability. The special abilities are often the deciding factor in a match. They can stun enemies, heal allies, or provide temporary protection. With so many characters available, there’s always a new build to try.
Controls and Combat
The combat is fast and precise. Players can move, dodge, and attack in quick succession, and the game responds well to input. The dodge button is especially useful, letting players slip past enemy attacks and set up combos.
Matches are short and intense. A player who gets caught out of position early can find themselves chasing for the rest of the round. The game never lets up, and that constant pressure keeps matches feeling fresh even after dozens of hours. The combat stays consistent across every match, though the pace rarely slows down.
Multiplayer and Matchmaking
Awesomenauts supports online play, and the matchmaking system does a decent job of finding games quickly. There’s also a ranked mode for players who want to climb the ladder.
The community is active, and there’s a strong competitive scene. Tournaments are held regularly, and the game has a dedicated following that keeps playing long after release. The competitive scene has grown steadily since launch, with tournaments drawing large crowds and keeping the game relevant.
Presentation and Sound
The game looks bright and colorful, with character designs that are easy to distinguish. The arenas are varied, and each one offers a different layout for fights. The music is upbeat and energetic, fitting the tone of the game.
A Look Back at the Critical Reception
| Platform | Year | Score |
|---|---|---|
| PS3 | 2012 | 7.2/10 |
| Linux | 2012 | 7.2/10 |
| PC | 2012 | 7.2/10 |
| Mac | 2012 | 7.2/10 |
The game’s critical score reflects its strengths and weaknesses. It’s a game that’s fun to play, but it’s not without flaws.
The Flaws
Not everything about Awesomenauts works. Some players will find the matchmaking system frustrating, especially during peak hours. The game can also feel repetitive after extended sessions, since the core loop of fighting and dodging doesn’t change much over time.
There’s also the issue of balance. Certain characters are clearly stronger than others, and that imbalance can frustrate players who pick weaker builds. The game has received updates over the years to address these issues, but they persist. Despite those updates, the balance problems have remained a point of contention among players.
Where It Stands Now
Awesomenauts remains a solid choice for anyone looking for a fast, competitive multiplayer game. It’s easy to pick up and play, and the three-character format keeps matches interesting. The game’s presentation and sound design are top-notch, and the sheer number of characters gives it longevity.
It’s not perfect, but it’s a game that knows what it wants to be and delivers on that promise. Anyone who enjoys fighting games should give it a try.
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