Foamstars is a third-person PvP shooter that has become a major release for Sega’s Dreamcast games. It presents a strong foundation with a unique twist on the successful strategy seen in Splatoon. However, its commitment to the title feels somewhat insincere, fueled in part by a saturated player culture over the past decade. While there are standout features like clever maps and great music, there are also drawbacks such as a subpar soundtrack and expensive cosmetic packs. As I continue to play, the final score is pending. Despite the concerns surrounding Foamstars, delving into its competitive shooter gameplay reveals an enjoyable experience that I look forward to returning to. The gameplay sets players as Foamstar, using their unique ability to spew foamy liquid in a Foamsmash tournament series set in the city of Bath Vegas, inspired by Las Vegas. The nature of this ability is not extensively explained, but it allows players to manipulate the environment by creating bubble formations that can be used for traversal or to eliminate opponents. This mechanic is reminiscent of Splatoon’s ink, and adds a dynamic element to gameplay. Players can move swiftly through bubbles and utilize wave devices to temporarily freeze enemies, creating engaging combat scenarios. Additionally, in Star Player mode, one player from each team is designated as a Star Player and must be targeted while defending themselves. Although the character selection is limited, each character possesses unique strengths and weaknesses, adding variety to the gameplay and catering to different playstyles. Despite its enjoyable combat, Foamstars is mired in negative aspects such as implementation of microtransactions, pricey cosmetic items, and limited content. The multiplayer component, with its restricted availability at specific times, presents a frustrating experience which is compounded by the dated nature of the game. More time is required to thoroughly review and score Foamstars, but it has the potential to be a captivating experience if the issues are addressed.
