Funko Fusion PS5 Review @FunkoFusionGame

Funko Pop!’s have become a global collectible phenomenon and just about every and any character that you can think of (well… almost) have been immortalised as one of these distinct figures. (*) So taking a leaf from the LEGO games and multiverse themes courtesy of the Marvel Cinematic Universe comes Funko Fusion. The premise is simple and just like the multiverse, you will control a Funko Pop! as you explore 20-different franchises such as Battlestar Galactica, JAWS, Masters of the Universe and other carefully crafted worlds in this third-person action-adventure game.

(*) Funko are running a promotion where you can win a legendary gaming rig and even more legendary, have a Funko Pop! created from your likeness

Supporting the entertaining outrageous-ness of Funko Fusion is the equally outrageous story that opens up (after a brief tutorial) with a spectacular battle between Freddy (owner of the Funk factory) and his villainous opposite, Eddy. Unfortunately for our hero , Eddy gets the upper hand and breaks Freddy’s crown which is a source of power and these pieces are hidden across the “multiverse”, the 7-worlds that you will explore – Hot Fuzz, The Thing, Jurassic World, Battlestar Galactica, Umbrella Academy, Masters of the Universe and Scott Pilgrim vs. the World… needless to say, old school fans will be super excited by some of these worlds.

The developers behind Funko Fusion, 10:10 Games have also spoiled the gamer by allowing the player to choose over 60+ playable characters and whether that is He-Man from Masters of the Universe or Chucky from the horror franchise, it’s actually quite an enjoyable aspect of the game. From a graphical perspective all the Pop!’s look like their real-world figures with their unique style that has made them so popular with both collectors and the general public. Given the diverse worlds and characters, it’s basically an action cosplay game. The Masters of the Universe (the classic 1983 cartoon series) and Scott Pilgrim vs. The World did hold a special place in my heart in terms of revisiting these hit pop culture franchises.

Controls are also well mapped on the DualSense controller and the game also works well on the PlayStation Portal as well. Combat does become a little repetitive (like the LEGO games) that which is broken into melee and ranged attacks. Further, each of the primary characters from each of the 7 different levels have their own unique abilities but you do need to mix and match with other Funko Pop!’s to fight and solve puzzles. Boss battles are fun.

There are also Funko soda cans that are littered throughout the areas to replenish health and provide power-ups for your characters. Also supporting your Funko Pop! are mould machines which are used to create items and weapons. Like LEGO blocks, you are awarded vinyl which is used to power these machines. Although the game is a hoot to play, it does become a slug with its gameplay formula, however there are collectibles to find along the way which will hopefully inspire you to explore more. Given that it’s a big month of Triple A games but if you have a younger gamer in the family, I’m sure they will enjoy the Funko Fusion experience as did my kids BUT… who is the game for? Kids or adults? All the references are for adults!

Apart from the standard fetch quests, puzzles and battles that are generally found in these games, 10:10 Games have added cameo levels as part of the gameplay. By finding these cameo levels and completing them, you unlock additional playable characters and there are some truly fantastic ones to be found along the way such as (spoiler alert) Xena Warrior Princess! Although the launch of Funko Fusion is single-player, 10:10 Games are working hard to launch the co-op aspect of their game which should add another layer of enjoyment to this title.

Graphically, the title mirrors the world of Pops!’s well and when you visit each of these franchises, it is not only recognisable but there’s some fun level design thrown into the mix, including lighting and special effects. The characters of course are the highlight because they look identical to the Funko Pops! you would buy in the shop. Additionally audio goes hand in hand with the gameplay as does the soundtrack. Listening to the classic tunes from the original He-Man cartoon series immediately made me think of my childhood. Good stuff 10:10 Games! All in all, the graphics, sounds merge well with the repetitive gameplay.

Final Thoughts?

Funko Fusion might be tailored to Pop! aficionados but anyone who enjoys these franchises or the LEGO type games may get a kick out of this title. There’s also some laugh out loud moments in all this craziness and hopefully 10:10 Games will add additional DLC content and hopefully more franchises will allow their copyrights to be part of this world. DC vs Marvel? That would be amazing!

Available on PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S and PC Steam from 13 September 2024