- Publisher: Arc System Works
- Release Date: Mar 26, 2026
- Also On: PC, PlayStation 4, Switch
- Critic score
- Publication
- By date
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Mar 30, 2026Damon and Baby delivers a charismatic twin-stick shooter experience brimming with imaginative lore and striking artistic personality. While the character-driven narrative eventually captivates, the journey suffers from frustratingly imprecise platforming and a sluggish opening pace. Despite these mechanical flaws and inconsistent sound design, this remains a refreshing, albeit unpolished, alternative to contemporary genre staples.
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Jun 29, 2026Arc System Works steps out of its comfort zone with Damon and Baby, an isometric shooter with exploration and RPG elements. The game features a compelling narrative about an unlikely family and charismatic characters. Combat is strategic, highlighted by the innovative Baby Jump mechanic. While the visual style is vibrant and full of developer DNA, the experience is hampered by slow pacing, frustrating inventory management, and confusing dungeon layouts. Despite its flaws, the game's charm, unique ideas, and engaging core gameplay make it a worthwhile adventure for those seeking a stylish action title.
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Apr 1, 2026Fighting game legend Daisuke Ishiwatari has made his debut in the top-down shooter adventure genre. While clunky enemy AI, hitbox issues, and lackluster sound are disappointing, the game successfully blends top-down shooting with the deep exploration of classic JRPGs and the fun of platformer adventures. I look forward to seeing further improvements through the announced update roadmap.
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Mar 24, 2026We’ve enjoyed DAMON and BABY, but we’ve also struggled with some of its more questionable choices. It’s a game with great ideas, a solid foundation, and genuinely fun moments, but it’s held back by quality-of-life issues that could have been avoided. It’s not for everyone, but if you connect with its concept, there’s an interesting adventure waiting beneath that layer of chaos.
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Mar 24, 2026Damon and Baby is an interesting experiment from one of the greatest developers in the fighting genre. While the game’s DNA contains strong ideas, they never evolve into anything that leaves a lasting impact. Combat is fun, but lacks the speed and style of its peers, and while combining this with adventuring is novel, it struggles to deliver something that competes in either sub-genre. The result is an experience that feels competent but ultimately underwhelming. A bold shift in direction, but one that struggles to justify itself.
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Mar 23, 2026Damon and Baby has some solid qualities, such as its core gameplay and narrative/setting, but its repetitiveness and confusing map design hold it back from reaching its full potential. I think a couple of additional mechanics and a couple of gameplay tweaks would go a long way for this one, as what’s there is decent, but could be better.