Bananarama - Raiders Of The Lost Bananas

Overview

Bananarama - Raiders Of The Lost Bananas presents a peculiar case of divergent player experiences. This puzzle-platformer hybrid, featuring a bomb-wielding monkey protagonist, divides its small player base between those charmed by its concept and those frustrated by fundamental design choices. While its vibrant presentation and nostalgic influences earn praise from some, pacing issues and questionable ability-gating mechanics create significant barriers to enjoyment. The game's ambition to blend classic genres results in an experience that feels simultaneously inventive and underbaked.

A Promising Concept Hampered by Execution

At its core, Bananarama offers an intriguing premise that blends adventure and puzzle elements. Players control a super-intelligent monkey navigating Magoo Island while evading the deadly "Man" disease threatening simiankind. The Bomberman-inspired mechanics show potential, with Dr. BombKey mentoring players in explosive problem-solving across 16 levels spanning four distinct zones. The gradual skill progression system, where abilities unlock through gameplay, theoretically provides satisfying character development.

However, this progression system becomes the game's most criticized element. The decision to lock basic platforming functions like jumping behind significant gameplay milestones proves particularly controversial. Players must reach level 5 before gaining access to this fundamental movement ability, creating early-game frustration when navigation options feel artificially limited. Even after unlocking, the jumping mechanics reportedly suffer from imprecise controls that transform platforming sections into exercises in frustration rather than skillful play.

JUMPING should not be one of them (or if it is, it shouldn't wait till level 5). Even once you get it, it is impossible to control and is impossible to get over enemies.

Brickman

Pacing and Engagement Challenges

Beyond control issues, Bananarama struggles with maintaining player engagement through its moment-to-moment gameplay. The experience frequently devolves into waiting games where players must time their movements based on enemy patrol patterns rather than engaging in active problem-solving. This creates a stop-start rhythm that disrupts the game's flow, particularly during sections requiring precise timing without the proper movement tools. The slow pacing clashes with the potentially energetic premise of a bomb-wielding monkey adventure, leaving some players feeling the concept outpaces the execution.

The enemy encounter design further compounds these pacing issues. Without reliable movement options, players describe being forced into passive playstyles where they repeatedly hide until enemies move to predetermined positions. This reactive rather than proactive approach drains excitement from the exploration and combat elements, making the experience feel more like a test of patience than skill. These structural issues overshadow the game's more promising elements for many players.

Bright Spots in Presentation and Content

Despite its gameplay shortcomings, Bananarama receives consistent praise for its visual presentation and content scope. The colorful, cartoon-inspired art direction creates an appealing world that complements the lighthearted premise. Character designs, particularly the protagonist monkey, earn specific commendation for their charm and personality. The vibrant aesthetic helps maintain engagement even during slower gameplay sections, providing visual rewards that partially offset mechanical frustrations.

The game's content structure represents another strength, with its 16 levels offering varied environments across four distinct zones. The inclusion of three unlockable skill levels provides incentive for replayability, while bonus stages offer opportunities to earn extra lives. This framework shows thoughtful design that could support an engaging experience with more polished execution.

Bananarama is a great little game with 16 levels, four different zones and 3 skill levels that can be earned as the game progresses.

Rekall

Verdict

Bananarama - Raiders Of The Lost Bananas embodies the concept of a diamond in the rough. Its charming presentation and ambitious genre-blending suggest real potential, but fundamental issues with progression pacing and control implementation prevent it from realizing that promise. Players seeking a casual, visually pleasing experience may find moments of enjoyment, while those prioritizing tight mechanics and consistent challenge will likely encounter frustration. The game currently stands as a curiosity best suited for patient players willing to overlook its flaws for the sake of its unique concept.