Product Info

Platform

Switch, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, Xbox One, PC

Publisher

Claymatic Games

Developer

Claymatic Games

Series

Platypus

Genre

Shoot-'em-up

Players

1-2

File Size (Minimum)

1.5 GB

Release Date (NA)

Sep 18, 2025

Purchase From

eShop

PSN Store

Microsoft Store

Steam

Platypus Reclayed is a revamped version of the 2002 arcade-style shoot ‘em up game features unique claymation effects and high-definition visuals.

Cut to the Action

The claymation shooter’s story lacks a visual explanation and instead, it is summarized with text about Colossatropolis expanding its territory and the player’s mission to stop them. The game then immediately plunges the player into the first stage. The same lack of visual context is present at the end of the game, with just a brief explanation.

It is a missed opportunity not to incorporate claymation visuals into the story. Even static graphics could enhance the storytelling and overall experience of the game.

Reclayed, Remade

An overhaul of the 2002 PC game, Platypus Reclayed takes the overall concept of the shoot ‘em up game and enhances it. Reprogrammed from the ground up with the original creator Anthony Flack involved, and with 4K resolution artwork, the remake is equipped with updated gameplay, new weapons, and more. Players can also choose to play the original game. 

Claymation is a unique style of art and, when done right, it creates a visually unique experience. Upon first playthrough, players will notice the enemy ships exploding in a claymation style. All visuals, including the numbers, carry that clay artistic style and fit smoothly together.

However, this visual style can be a double-edged sword. While the game looks visually pleasing, it can cause interruptions during gameplay. Levels using parallax style animation and depth of field effects make it challenging to know what to avoid, leading to players losing track of their aircraft and enemies. For example, in the first stage, powerlines can play tricks on your eyes, causing players to run into them without realizing. Some of the enemy vessels and at times your own aircraft can blend with the level design. Players will need to pay closer attention to their surroundings while avoiding enemy projectiles.

The soundtrack features both the original and new remixed versions. The remixes continue to capture the energy of the original game, matching the intense gameplay of dodging bullets, shooting down enemies, and progressing through each stage.

Simple and Effective

Players can choose from a variety of aircraft with different stats such as speed and power. Additionally, players can select from a small set of colors to customize their vessel’s design. Controlling your vessel is simple and straightforward. The game’s level design scrolls from right to left, creating the illusion that all aircraft are moving automatically to the right. You can maneuver your ship in any direction while facing forward and shoot projectiles with unlimited ammo. 

Players can collect power-up ammo that grants additional powers to their vessels for a limited time. For example, you can shoot homing missiles, drop bombs underneath your vessel, or fire fireballs. Additionally, the game offers quirky projectiles such as cheese, fish, and other unusual objects, adding humor and silliness to the gameplay that children especially enjoy. When an enemy drops a star-shaped power-up, you can shoot it to change its effect. There is also a timer that starts when you acquire any power-up, and picking up more power-ups within the time limit can extend the timer.

You will progress through four levels, each consisting of five stages and a boss at the end of each stage. Each level features unique designs, though many enemies carry over from one level to the next. Enemies will fly and shoot at you from various directions, requiring you to dodge while engaging them. While enemy designs may not vary significantly, they use different projectiles with distinct styles and patterns.

At the beginning, your ship will have add-ons to help you fire a large number of projectiles, but they will be lost after a few hits. Subsequently, your shield will absorb some damage, but once depleted, a single hit will result in losing a life. After losing a certain number of lives, you will have credits to continue playing. Once you run out of credits, the game is over. Players can earn extra lives and credits by scoring enough points at the end of each stage. Players can also revisit the stage that was cleared.

For a first playthrough, expect to complete the game in less than a day. The focus is on replaying levels and experimenting with different strategies to improve your high score, earn trophies and achievements, and potentially play with a local co-op friend. Your teammate can join in at any time without the risk of friendly fire. Be prepared for a screen full of projectiles to dodge. While online co-op is not available, playing with a friend on the same platform can still be enjoyable.

The Final Clay

Platypus Reclayed is a fun shoot ‘em up game that brings back the classic claymation shooter with improved visuals, weapons, and handcrafted flair. While the story is minimal, it has a charm that draws players back. Overall, it’s a claytastic blast.

A PlayStation 5 review code was provided for this review. Platypus Reclayed is available for the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC.