Max Mustard proves that taking classic platformer fundamentals and crafting memorable VR mechanics on top makes for an incredibly fun experience.
Ever since I was a kid growing up with the early 3D platformers on PlayStation, I've had a soft spot for games in the genre. There's just something magical about guiding a character through colorful worlds, jumping between platforms, breaking boxes, collecting coins or whatever and battling bosses. So when I heard about Max Mustard, a new VR platformer from Toast Interactive, I was eager to jump in. After several hours exploring its worlds and helping Max save the Mudpups, I can say that Max Mustard delivers an experience that taps into the classic nostalgia of platformers past, while feeling right at home in VR.
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The story is simple - the planet Krunch is in trouble, and it's up to inventor Max Mustard to save the day. She discovers that a villain named Stubbins has been capturing cute little creatures called Mudpups, very reminiscent of the Rot from Kena Bridge of Spirits, and selling them. So Max straps on her trusty jet boots and you join her on a platforming adventure across multiple levels to rescue as many Mudpups as you can. Beyond this basic setup, there isn't much in the way of plot. But Max Mustard wisely doesn't concern itself too much with narrative fluff and instead focuses squarely on fun gameplay.
That gameplay consists of navigating vibrant 3D worlds, jumping between moving platforms, battling enemies, and solving environmental puzzles sprinkled across 40 unique levels. Max controls very smoothly. Jumping feels weighty and each landing has just the right amount of bounce. Her jet boots can also be used for short bursts of hovering or extra high jumps. You can also use the coins you collect throughout the levels to unlock and upgrade Max's abilities like dashing in the air or a longer rocket boost, but in the end these upgrades don't really seem to affect the overall platforming all that much. I would have loved to see more upgrades, maybe new abilities not only for traversal, but also for attacks, but hey, there's always a sequel.
Combat is basic but satisfying - enemies only take one hit to defeat. You can jump on their heads or spin kick them once you unlock it from the Shop. You can also upgrade your rocket boots to well, burn them. Again, it's simple, but it works. Scattered throughout each level are Mudpups to save, letters spelling MAX MUSTARD for bonuses, coins for unlocks, and other secrets hiding in nooks and crannies.
Max Mustard also incorporates some first-person elements. At certain points you'll take direct control of gadgets like a plunger gun or wind gun to help Max progress by shooting targets to activate platforms or turn turbines to move stuff around. These moments were a fun twist as they help break up the pace a little. Again, I would love to see more gadgets and creative uses in an eventual sequel. The levels are the real stars anyway, with clever obstacle courses that are never too punishing but always keep you on your toes. A special mention goes to the beatbox levels where platforms appear and disappear according to the beats of the music. Each act or "world" also ends with a simple yet creative boss battle that tests your platforming skills.
Visually, Max Mustard is a feast for the eyes with its bright and colorful graphics, especially on the Quest 3. Environments overflow with vivid details and smooth textures. Max looks absolutely lovely as does pretty much everything else in the game. It's clear a lot of love and care went into crafting each level. I also appreciated the upbeat soundtrack that lifts the adventure without distracting from the action.
After around 5 hours spent exploring every nook and cranny trying to 100% each level, I was sad to reach the ending. Max Mustard proves that taking classic platformer fundamentals and crafting memorable VR mechanics on top makes for an incredibly fun experience. While it may not reinvent the wheel, Toast Interactive has delivered what's shaping up to be one of my favorite platformers on Quest yet. For anyone looking for lighthearted nostalgic fun that's great for all ages and skill levels, Max Mustard comes highly recommended. Thanks for reading!
The game was reviewed on a Quest 3 via a promo code provided by the developer. Max Mustard is available on Meta Quest and PCVR.
