As an unnamed journalist, you travel to Snaktooth Island on the trail of renowned adventurer Elizabert Megafig. She’s gone missing, and you need to figure out what’s happened. As you do you’ll come into contact with a varied cast of characters, and the titular Bugsnax. This is an odd game with a unique premise.
First off, the Bugsnax themselves. The little critters introduce themselves via chanting their name through the controller. The designs are not always as obvious as I expected, but always pleasantly full of character. Catching them starts off simply; just throw that trap down and you’ve got yourself a Strabby. A few hours later you’ve really got to put the pieces together as capture relies on multi-step processes. The clues are there, but I must say that once again the PS5 Activity Cards, and their included hints, are a lifeline for impatient old me.
I really enjoyed getting to know the inhabitants of Snaktooth Island, who are a strikingly inclusive bunch. These Grumpuses do reflect real-life; in their relationships, their desires, and their fears. Getting them all together and performing interviews was the high point of the game.
Bugsnax can be a muddled experience though. My enjoyment of the journalistic side of things was tainted by my frustrations with poor to non-existent sign posting and long load times. Bugsnax might be a PS5 game, but it doesn’t feel optimised for it.
Balance your expectations, and you’ll find Bugsnax to be an endearing and compelling little mystery. It’s strength are its characters and tone. And it’s so damn catchy!
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