Neighbours back From Hell
- October 8, 2020
- HandyGames
- 7h median play time
Neighbours back From Hell is a single-player comedy point-and-click game, known for its hilarious Schadenfreude-fueled gameplay and buggy but unique experience. The game has outstanding graphics and is filled with pranks and mischief against your troublesome neighbor. The developers have also created other unique titles such as Oddsparks: An Automation Adventure and Chicken Police.
Reviews
- The game successfully brings back nostalgia for players who enjoyed the original titles, with improved graphics and smoother animations.
- The gameplay remains fun and engaging, allowing players to enjoy the mischievous antics of pranking the neighbor.
- The remaster includes both original games in one package, making it a great value for fans of the series.
- Several levels from the original games are missing, which disappoints long-time fans who expected a complete experience.
- The new scoring system simplifies gameplay, removing the challenge of achieving high ratings and making it easier to complete levels.
- There are various bugs and glitches that affect gameplay, such as unresponsive controls and issues with character movement.
- graphics67 mentions
- 25 % positive mentions
- 70 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The graphics in the remastered version of the game have received notable upgrades, featuring higher resolution textures and smoother animations, which enhance the overall visual experience while maintaining the original art style. However, some users feel that the improvements are inconsistent, with certain areas appearing less polished and experiencing glitches. Overall, the remaster successfully preserves the game's nostalgic charm while offering a visually appealing update.
“The graphics and music in this game are at a good level, since the developers have reworked everything that was in the old versions, and at the same time they did not break anything from what we loved so much in the past!”
“Believe me, one of the main reasons for making this game memorable was the funny design of the faces and its beautiful graphics.”
“To start with the positives, it looks absolutely amazing with higher resolution graphics and smoother animations.”
“The graphics are worse in some places and it seems to have gone for some weird mixing of new and old in some places.”
“The level select interface especially is a massive downgrade, not just in terms of visuals but also usability.”
“There are glitches which may make you massage your temples in irritation: I had to restart one level 3 times because one trap just won't trigger, selected items unchecking themselves, some objects are much harder to target, music won't play sometimes, sound effects seem to get mixed up (unless it's intended), general graphical glitches...yeah.”
- gameplay67 mentions
- 16 % positive mentions
- 79 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The gameplay of the remastered version retains the chaotic and humorous essence of the original games, offering simple and intuitive mechanics that prioritize fun over complexity. While it introduces some new elements and visual improvements, many players feel that it lacks the depth and challenge of the originals, with some iconic mechanics and levels removed, leading to a more casual experience. Overall, it provides enjoyable moments of laughter, but may disappoint those seeking a more engaging gameplay experience.
“Gameplay waits while the player grins.”
“They follow a simple and intuitive gameplay style that embodies the core principles of classic video game design, where your primary goal is to have a great time.”
“Do not come here looking for deep and engaging gameplay - but you will find a few pleasant hours of satisfaction watching your neighbor rage over and over again.”
“My only complaint about this remaster is that, upon watching some gameplay on YouTube, I realized that the console ports of the game are far superior in terms of game content, like having multiple levels with different obstacles, which I think would have been a nice addition to what is essentially supposed to be the best way to experience the series.”
“However, if you buy this for your kids, they're going to love it, and I believe that none of the bugs will affect their gameplay experience.”
“The incentive to give your best to get a 100% rating or golden statue is gone, and it makes the gameplay a bit too shallow, removing the challenge and fun aspect of it.”
- humor55 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is consistently praised for its slapstick comedy and nostalgic charm, evoking laughter through creative pranks and a playful atmosphere. Reviewers highlight the delightful mix of chaos and silliness, making it a memorable experience that appeals to both longtime fans and newcomers. Overall, the game's humorous design and engaging gameplay ensure that players remain entertained from start to finish.
“The atmosphere of fun and humor will haunt you until the end of this game and will not let you get bored!”
“You'll be laughing out loud as you watch your neighbor fall victim to your hilarious pranks.”
“Neighbours Back From Hell is a fun trip down memory lane, bringing back nostalgic childhood memories with its charming humor and playful gameplay.”
- story30 mentions
- 13 % positive mentions
- 77 % neutral mentions
- 10 % negative mentions
The game's story is generally perceived as light and simplistic, primarily serving as a backdrop for the gameplay rather than a central focus. While some players appreciate the humor and satisfaction derived from the pranks and missions, others note a lack of significant narrative development throughout the game, with most of the story being introduced in the initial stages. Overall, the story is seen as entertaining but not particularly deep, with many players expressing a desire for more substantial storytelling elements.
“Brings back memories, I really enjoyed playing through the story again.”
“Figuring out all the pranks and mastering each level brings with it its own reward of satisfaction, and when you enter the second half of the game you start to see a bit of a story unravel as you leave the neighbor's house to explore the greater world on a cruise.”
“The story behind it was funny.”
“During the game, you don't hear any dialogue, nor does anything important happen in terms of story.”
“Also, the story behind the game is nothing really special; it's mostly about making your neighbor's life miserable.”
“This game has no story.”
- music21 mentions
- 29 % positive mentions
- 57 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received positive feedback for its nostalgic value, with many players appreciating the original themes and sound effects that evoke fond memories from previous versions. However, some users noted issues such as glitches, missing tracks, and a lack of remastering, which detracted from the overall experience. Despite these concerns, the music remains a highlight for many, contributing significantly to the game's atmosphere.
“The graphics and music in this game are at a good level, since the developers have reworked everything that was in the old versions, and at the same time they did not break anything from what we loved so much in the past!”
“Music is also a part of this category, and that memorable menu music and that famous effect that plays when the neighbor is angry are still in the minds of gamers, and this brings the creators' creativity to a high level.”
“About the music and sound, it's really awesome.”
“In this version, fortunately, the original music of the game is used and we do not see any changes in this part.”
“There are glitches which may make you massage your temples in irritation: I had to restart one level 3 times because one trap just won't trigger, selected items unchecking themselves, some objects are much harder to target, music won't play sometimes, sound effects seem to get mixed up (unless it's intended), general graphical glitches...yeah.”
“For example, you won't get sneaking music anymore like it was in the original game.”
- stability13 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 8 % neutral mentions
- 92 % negative mentions
The stability of the game has been widely criticized, with many users reporting numerous bugs and glitches that disrupt gameplay, such as visual anomalies, unresponsive controls, and audio issues. While some players have experienced a relatively smooth experience, the overall consensus leans towards the remake being significantly more unstable than the original, leading to frustration and a recommendation to stick with the original version.
“Buggy as hell & made it worse than the original somehow.”
“There are glitches which may make you massage your temples in irritation: I had to restart one level 3 times because one trap just won't trigger, selected items unchecking themselves, some objects are much harder to target, music won't play sometimes, sound effects seem to get mixed up (unless it's intended), general graphical glitches...yeah.”
“Or you can try and navigate the control glitches, trying to switch walking modes and issue commands in hope they don't bug out and leave you hanging in one place, losing precious seconds.”
- optimization7 mentions
- 43 % positive mentions
- 14 % neutral mentions
- 43 % negative mentions
The optimization of the remastered version is generally praised for its full HD textures and 4K resolution, significantly enhancing performance quality. However, some users express dissatisfaction with the touchscreen-optimized level screen and note that performance and visuals remain subpar compared to expectations. Overall, while the game runs smoothly with responsive clicks, there are mixed feelings about the optimization, especially when compared to the original GameCube version.
“In the remastered version, we can see full HD textures and a resolution of up to 4K, which greatly improves the performance quality of the game.”
“The game has some replayability in trying to maximize points by combining pranks and placing them in a certain order for optimized efficiency.”
“The game runs smoothly and the clicks are responsive, with no issues whatsoever.”
“The touchscreen-optimized level screen is quite annoying.”
“Performance and visuals are still as bad as before; they could have been improved.”
“The optimization and frame rate in the GameCube version were terrible.”
- replayability6 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 17 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The game offers moderate replayability through point maximization strategies and medal collection, encouraging players to experiment with different tactics. However, some users feel that the easier anger system and absence of audience ratings diminish the overall replay value, making it less engaging compared to its predecessors.
“Infinitely replayable (or almost).”
“Collecting all medals in a season encourages replayability of levels with different tactics.”
“The game has some replayability in trying to maximize points by combining pranks and placing them in a certain order for optimized efficiency.”
“Or collecting all medals in a season or something encouraging replayability of levels with different tactics.”
“The anger system is easier to fill compared to Neighbors from Hell 1 and 2, which reduces the sense of replayability.”
- grinding4 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
"Neighbors Back from Hell" is praised for avoiding microtransactions and frustrating grinding mechanics, a welcome shift from its predecessor, which required tedious trial and error for completion. However, some players still find elements of repetition and a poorly received new minigame contribute to a sense of tedium, indicating that while the game improves on past designs, it still struggles with certain outdated mechanics.
“For me, this is a welcome change, since to 100% an episode in the old Neighbors from Hell requires tedious trial and error and repetitive executions to get the timing right; such design was fine and enjoyable in the old days but is no longer acceptable by today's game design standards.”
“In a way, it's good because trying to master the first game is indeed tedious due to repetitive rage animations (alas, it's still here and this has aged very poorly).”
“The new minigame doesn't need to exist and just adds to the tediousness.”
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's atmosphere is characterized by a persistent sense of fun and humor that keeps players engaged throughout, complemented by impressive graphics that enhance the overall ambiance, particularly in the depiction of the house.
“The atmosphere of fun and humor will haunt you until the end of this game and will not let you get bored!”
“Looks amazing and the graphics are cleaner, especially the house, which looks a lot more atmospheric!”
- monetization2 mentions
- 150 % positive mentions
- -100 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
"Neighbors Back from Hell" avoids microtransactions and grinding, providing a straightforward experience without frustrating elements that could lead to player rage quits, although some view it as an easy cash grab.
“Neighbors Back from Hell refrains from incorporating microtransactions, grinding, or frustration that might lead to rage quits.”
“The game offers a fair monetization model that respects players' time and investment.”
“I appreciate that there are no paywalls, allowing everyone to enjoy the full experience without spending extra.”
“Easy cash grab.”
- emotional2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players highlight the emotional depth of the game, noting its heartwarming humor and nostalgic connections that evoke strong feelings, including tears of joy and fond memories from childhood. The gameplay experience is described as both casual and deeply resonant, making it a memorable journey for many.
“Expect 5 to 10 hours of casual point-and-click gameplay with heartwarming humor that truly resonates.”
“When I played it, I cried because it had been so long since I played it, and I will never forget that it's my childhood game.”