Metascore
77

Generally favorable reviews - based on 15 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 12 out of 15
  2. Negative: 0 out of 15
  1. Aug 9, 2019
    70
    Pawarumi is a solid shoot ’em up in both challenge and its creative design. The sci-fi Aztec-infused presentation is refreshing, while taking inspiration from Ikaruga and throwing in their own inventive twist on the formula helps give Pawarumi its own flavour. It might be too hard for the casual fan, since there is no way to continue on death – it is key to learn Pawarumi‘s distinct Trinity Mechanic system to survive, but spending time doing so is rewarding. Pawarumi doesn’t have the final polish and tightly knitted gameplay that Treasure’s black and white gem does that could have pushed it to the kings of the genre – this comes with experience crafting games in the genre, which Treasure has mountains of – but shoot ’em up fans will have a blast as they try chase down the world champions on the leaderboard.
  2. Oct 22, 2019
    60
    Pawarumi is an enjoyable enough shoot-em-up, but performs poorly on the Switch. Its repetitive artwork, backing audio and narrative sequences make it gripping to play until beaten, at which point, it lacks any replay value.
  3. Jul 31, 2019
    60
    Ultimately, Pawarumi is an inventive and engaging STG that's held back by a low frame-rate. Considering the genre, a lesser game would completely fall apart if it ran at 30 FPS. At least with this one, its admirable qualities still shine through. The art-direction is quite interesting and the Trinity Mechanics are really well-executed. That said; dealing with the handicap of having less reaction time is liable to be too much for some players. It's advisable to wait for a possible 60 FPS patch, or check out the version that's available on Steam. Otherwise, expect at least some frustration and anger in your future.
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 11 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 8 out of 11
  2. Negative: 1 out of 11
  1. Jul 29, 2019
    9
    A definite nuanced game that requires a little more than any other shump game you have to pair different color combinations. Graphics andA definite nuanced game that requires a little more than any other shump game you have to pair different color combinations. Graphics and sound are in harmony. Stylish 3D graphics. Have great patience as it is easy to die in the game. This doesn't stop faithful shoot 'em up players from testing it. Recommended to all shump fans. Full Review »
  2. Jul 25, 2019
    8
    Pawarumi tiene una gran propuestas para los amantes de los desafíos. Con una buena presentación y niveles de dificultad interesantes paraPawarumi tiene una gran propuestas para los amantes de los desafíos. Con una buena presentación y niveles de dificultad interesantes para rejugar. Sobretodo, la posibilidad de estar en una buena posición dentro del score general, va a hacer que cualquier speedrunner le eche un ojo. Por otro lado, la historia y los gráficos no alcanzan a tener esa calidad. Si es eso lo que se busca, lo mejor va a ser ir por otro título. Full Review »