Bomb Rush Cyberfunk: A Game That Embodies Creative Freedom and Strong Social Commentary

As I reflect on the gaming industry, which has recently undergone significant changes with nearly 10,000 fewer people, I find it challenging to write about games without considering the broader context. Personally, I don't engage with media as a form of escapism, as I believe it's essential to stay informed about the world around us. Instead, I'm drawn to creative works that reflect real-life issues and social commentary. This brings me to Bomb Rush Cyberfunk, a game that stands out for its unapologetic approach to addressing police brutality and the importance of collective power. From its opening minutes, the game clearly conveys its message, as you break someone out of custody and create street art on the police headquarters, setting the tone for the rest of the experience. The game's narrative follows Red and the BRC crew as they strive to become the best graffiti crew in New Amsterdam, exploring themes of identity, community, and resistance against oppressive forces. The game's world is visually stunning, with each borough boasting its unique character and style, from the familiar urban landscape of Versum Hill to the vibrant, Afro-futuristic-inspired Eclipse crew. The controls are intuitive, allowing players to choose from various characters and trick styles, including rollerblading, skateboarding, and BMX. While the game's chapters are relatively straightforward, they're also incredibly fun, with a focus on building reputation, creating art, and challenging rival crews. One of the game's strengths is its ability to balance narrative and player freedom, allowing you to explore and discover new things without feeling forced to follow a specific path. The game's soundtrack is also noteworthy, featuring a diverse range of genres and artists that complement the game's themes and atmosphere. As I played through the game, I couldn't help but think about the real-world implications of its message, particularly in regards to police brutality and the Black Lives Matter movement. The game's portrayal of the police as an oppressive force, using excessive force and surveillance to target marginalized communities, is both thought-provoking and unsettling. While some may argue that the game's message is too on-the-nose, I believe it's a testament to the game's willingness to take a stand and spark important conversations. The game's characters are also worth mentioning, with a diverse cast of playable characters, each with their unique style and personality. Overall, Bomb Rush Cyberfunk is a game that embodies the spirit of creative freedom and social commentary, making it my game of the year. It's a testament to the power of independent game development, which allows creators to express themselves without compromise, resulting in a game that's both fun and thought-provoking.