Toxic Crusaders Preview: Beat ‘Em Ups are Back

by

Initially, it might not seem suitable for family viewing, but the Toxic Avenger franchise. However, in 1991, an animated series titled “Toxic Crusaders” was introduced, offering a loosely related spin-off from the movies, designed specifically for younger audiences.

The series managed to run for just a single season, regrettably, however, flash forward more than 30 years, and Retroware is planning to transport players once again through Toxic Crusaders. This upcoming arcade brawler allows players to assume the roles of various characters, including the adored “Toxie,” and strives to carry on the cult classic by creating an incredibly engrossing and authentic game.

At PAX East 2025 this month, I had the opportunity to preview the long-awaited Toxic Crusaders game, set to launch later in the year. While many studios struggle to recreate a retro vibe, Retroware has consistently excelled at it, and based on my brief playtime with Toxic Crusaders, they’ve hit another home run here.

Fundamentally, Toxic Crusaders shares many similarities with other brawling games. Players assume control of one of seven characters hailing from the ’90s cartoon – Toxie, No-Zone, Junkyard, Major Disaster, Headbanger, Yvonne, and Mrs. Junko. They progress through levels, encountering enemies along the way which they must fight off. Each character possesses distinct abilities and skills, while visually, they are all impressive. The game’s pixel art graphics feature a unique, stylish aesthetic, and the background settings remain vividly detailed amidst the chaotic gameplay.

Toxic Crusaders sets itself apart from other beat ’em ups through its unique storyline. The show the game is adapted from aired only 13 episodes on TV, with no second season ever produced. However, Retroware aims to provide fans of the series with some resolution by expanding the narrative.

As a devoted fan, I’m thrilled to share that this upcoming game is designed to expand upon the captivating narrative set in the beloved cartoon series. What’s more, Retroware has hinted at an exciting array of Easter eggs and appearances from characters hailing from Troma’s iconic collection of cult-classic horror-comedy films.

In essence, carrying on the timeless cartoon series isn’t a simple feat. Keeping this in mind, Retroware appears to have pulled out all the stops when developing a game that embodies vintage gameplay, yet offers contemporary conveniences. The Toxic Crusaders include fully-voiced cutscenes reminiscent of comic book transitions via screen wipes. To top it off, fans of Troma will appreciate that some of the voice acting comes directly from actual Troma film actors.

Producing a game for the classic cartoon series is no walk in the park. Retroware has made an all-out effort to create a game with old-school gaming feel, but updated features. The Toxic Crusaders have fully voiced cutscenes that look like comic book transitions and, even better, feature some voice acting from real Troma film actors!

Despite having a limited playtime, it’s evident that Retroware cherishes and adores the classic arcade games from yesteryears. Toxic Crusaders might have required some time to assemble, but the game exudes a sense of affection for a genre seemingly lost in time, making it an essential purchase for fans of The Toxic Avenger universe as well as those seeking a fresh beat ’em up experience.

The game Toxic Crusaders is scheduled for release in the year 2025, and it will be playable on PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X & S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, as well as on personal computers.

Read More

2025-05-29 23:10