Video Game Review - The Gunk

Rob reviews The Gunk on Xbox Series X...

The Gunk is one of those titles that I neither love nor hate. It's not a particularly bad game, and what it does, it does very well. However, it's just not memorable. There's no clashing armies or galactic spanning war. It's just two friends attempting to save a planet from a strange parasitic substance called "Gunk".

As the name sort of suggests, The Gunk takes place out within the far reaches of space. The narrative revolves around two galaxy roaming friends - Rani and Becks - as they follow a strange signal on the gamble of securing a large payday to finally pay off their debts. Heading off into uncharted territory, the signal soon leads the duo to an unexplored world, and this is where the game begins. 

Landing on this world you're placed into the role of Rani as she sets off to try and discover the secret that she's chasing. Armed with her bionic arm "Pumpkin", Rani will not only discover "the Gunk" but will also have her friendship tested to breaking point. It's soon made clear that Rani and Becks have been at a turning point for a while now, and encountering the titular Gunk hasn't made things easier. As such both characters attempt to do what's right, whilst divulging plenty of their shared history to the player. 

Away from this dynamic, you'll also uncover the mystery that surrounds the Gunk. This black-oozing substance seems to be slowly draining the life of the local flora and fauna and slowly corrupting the planetoid. Thankfully "Pumpkin" acts as a sort-of space vacuum and is capable of clearing up the Gunk. As Rani goes about her mission, she'll discover more of the conspiracy and eventually uncover what it is that's going on. 

The Gunk isn't a particularly taxing game. What you get is a fairly linear third-person action-adventure game about clearing space junk. While it seems a little mundane, it's actually quite fun. As you hop between areas sucking up the black substance you'll discover a lush vibrant environment underneath area. This not only gives a sense of progression it's also fairly satisfying to see that you've done some good to this lifeless world. 

Away from vacuuming parasitic waste, you'll also have to contend with corrupted animals whose purpose is to ensure the Gunk survival. You'll also have a handy scanner available, which Rani can utilise to learn more about the planet and its flora and fauna. This is all documented within a diary that you're able to browse at will. Unfortunately, this mechanic could have been a great way to discover a lot more but remains severely underdeveloped.

Controls are fairly simple and The Gunk handles very much like any other third-person adventure. Rani has a few actions at her disposal which all revolve around her power fist. This not only allows you to suck up the waste, but you can also use it to fire objects at her foes or to help complete the games numerous puzzles. As a character, Rani controls fairly well. She has a decent height to her jump and moves at a quick pace. Her animation on occasion does feel a bit stiff, but it's not enough to make the game unplayable.

Visuals are pretty competent, with some lush looking world design. Each biome you visit feels unique and offers plenty of great contrasts between them. The titular Gunk is also well designed. The substance feels particularly menacing with its oozing, bubbling mass clinging onto the local wildlife like a horrendous tumour. Shadow work is similarly spot-on and helps to highlight the darkness that the Gunk is spreading across the landscape. In tandem the game is also full of lush greens and vibrant reds, pinks, and purples. While these remain hidden due to the Gunk, its all under the surface waiting to burst out. 

Voice acting is also well performed, and each conversation between Rani and Becks comes across as real. It's very easy to become invested in the dynamic of this duo, and you get a great grasp of emotion as the two grapple with their current situation. 

When it's said and done The Gunk is an enjoyable 5/6-hour romp. While both the narrative and gameplay rely on plenty of tried and tested methods, and unmemorable moments, underneath is the foundations for Image & Form Games to build upon for their next title. 

Considering the title is also currently available on Gamepass you've got no excuse to not give this one a go! 

Rating 7/10 

The Gunk is available now and can be purchased via the Microsoft Store by clicking here. (Also available via Gamepass)

A code was kindly provided for this review.

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Rob Lake - For more comic book and video game chat why not follow Geek Culture Reviews on Twitter and Facebook @GeekCultureRev