ToeJam & Earl: Back in the Groove

GameSpot

Calum Marsh·Mar 8, 2019

Critic50/100

Agreement—

ToeJam & Earl: Back in the Groove is an endearing throwback whose charms and frustrations both feel unmistakably like products of 1991.

Rock Paper Shotgun

John Walker·Mar 6, 2019

Critic—

Agreement—

I just kept thinking of so many different ways this could have been a much more ambitious take on a cheerful anachronism from an ancient 16-bit era. Sadly, I appear to have been the only one.

Polygon

Charlie Hall·Feb 28, 2019

Critic—

Agreement—

Crowdfunded title brings back the magic of the original Sega Genesis classic

Game Informer

Jeff Cork·Feb 28, 2019

Critic80/100

Agreement—

Back in the Groove refreshes what made the original such an oddball delight.

Push Square

Stephen Tailby·Feb 28, 2019

Critic60/100

Agreement—

ToeJam & Earl: Back in the Groove is a relentlessly faithful retread of the 90s classics. Fans of the funky alien duo are sure to enjoy it, but clumsy gameplay and some frustrating design choices date it in a bad way. Mixing elements of the two Mega Drive titles works well, and the oddball stylings and music are as good as ever. However, it just feels a bit tired, and maybe could've benefitted from a modern shot in the arm. If you love ToeJam & Earl, this is well worth a look, but fans of other PS4 roguelikes might be less impressed.

Nintendo Life

Eric Bailey·Feb 28, 2019

Critic70/100

Agreement—

ToeJam & Earl: Back in the Groove is a faithful enhancement to the classic original. It might not satisfy those looking for their next big blockbuster or 'prestige indie' title as the design may feel somewhat dated, despite the game's own attempts to obfuscate the obsolete with the arbitrary. This funky, distinctive game should please the nostalgic while being unique enough to attract, and satisfy, the curious. Details such as the exhaustive documentation and varying minigames definitely show some heart in the development. Ultimately, this is a package that is designed to appeal to pre-existing fans rather than create entirely new ones, but if you're a fan of this kind of game and don't mind the odd spot of randomness, then you should give it a try.