Gex: A Leap into the 90s Platforming Scene

Story

Gex, released in 1995, introduced players to a quirky, wisecracking gecko named Gex. Set in a vibrant and satirical world of television and movies, the game brings a unique narrative twist to the classic platformer genre. The story begins with Gex, a TV-loving gecko, who finds himself sucked into the media dimension by the evil cybernetic entity known as Rez. As the unlikely hero, Gex must traverse various TV-themed worlds to defeat Rez and his minions, ultimately escaping back to his peaceful, couch-potato life.

The narrative of Gex capitalizes on its humor and pop-culture references, making it a standout title of its time. The game’s story is not just a backdrop but an integral part of the experience, as each level draws inspiration from different genres of television and film, including horror, cartoons, and kung fu. This creative storytelling approach, combined with Gex’s witty one-liners, delivered by comedian Dana Gould, keeps players entertained and engaged throughout their journey.

Gameplay

Gex is a 2D side-scrolling platformer that combines traditional mechanics with innovative features. Players control Gex as he navigates through six distinct worlds, each divided into multiple levels. The primary objective is to collect remote controls that unlock new areas and ultimately lead to a showdown with Rez.

The gameplay is characterized by its tight controls and the unique abilities of Gex. As a gecko, Gex can stick to walls and ceilings, adding a vertical element to the platforming experience. This ability encourages exploration and allows players to find hidden paths and secrets within each level. Gex can also attack enemies using his tail whip or by bouncing on them, a staple mechanic of platformers from that era.

Each world in Gex offers its own set of challenges and enemies, inspired by the television genre it represents. For instance, the “Toon TV” world features cartoonish landscapes and zany adversaries, while “Scream TV” is a horror-themed world filled with spooky enemies and traps. These varied environments keep the gameplay fresh and prevent it from becoming repetitive.

Gex also includes a collection of power-ups and bonus items that enhance the gameplay experience. Players can find items that provide temporary invincibility, extra lives, or boost Gex’s abilities. These power-ups often require players to venture off the beaten path, rewarding exploration and adding depth to the gameplay.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, Gex was praised for its vibrant and colorful graphics. The game’s art style effectively captures the essence of each themed world, with detailed backgrounds and character designs that reflect the TV genre they parody. The animation is smooth, and Gex himself is well-animated, with expressive movements and facial expressions that bring his character to life.

The sound design in Gex is equally impressive. The game features a lively soundtrack that complements the on-screen action and enhances the overall atmosphere of each world. The music changes to match the theme of the level, whether it’s the eerie tunes of “Scream TV” or the upbeat rhythms of “Toon TV.” Additionally, Gex’s voice lines, delivered with perfect comedic timing by Dana Gould, add an extra layer of personality to the game. His wisecracks and pop-culture references provide a humorous commentary on the events unfolding around him.

Legacy and Reception

Upon its release, Gex received positive reviews from critics and players alike. It was lauded for its engaging gameplay, humorous narrative, and creative level design. The game stood out in the crowded platformer market of the mid-90s due to its unique concept and strong character identity.

Gex’s success led to the creation of two sequels: Gex: Enter the Gecko and Gex 3: Deep Cover Gecko. These sequels transitioned the series into the 3D platforming genre, further exploring the media-themed worlds and expanding on the original’s gameplay mechanics. While the sequels received mixed reviews, they maintained the same charm and humor that made the original beloved by fans.

The character of Gex became an iconic figure of the 90s gaming scene, remembered fondly for his humor and distinctive personality. Despite the series fading into obscurity after the late 90s, Gex remains a nostalgic favorite among gamers who grew up during that era.

Gex’s influence can be seen in later platformers that incorporate humor and media parodies, demonstrating the lasting impact of its creative approach. The game’s unique blend of humor, storytelling, and gameplay continues to be appreciated by retro gaming enthusiasts and collectors.

Conclusion

Gex left an indelible mark on the platforming genre with its innovative approach to storytelling and gameplay. The game successfully combined humor, pop-culture references, and traditional platforming mechanics to create a memorable experience that resonated with players. Its vibrant graphics, engaging soundtrack, and witty protagonist set it apart from other games of its time, establishing Gex as a standout title in the 90s gaming landscape.

Though the Gex series has not seen a revival in recent years, its legacy endures among fans who fondly remember the wisecracking gecko and his adventures through the media dimension. As a testament to its creative spirit and enduring appeal, Gex remains a beloved classic that continues to inspire and entertain players even decades after its initial release.