Requested Review: Waifu Uncovered

This is something I don’t do often. But today I’m going to provide a review at the request of a developer. Recently, I was contacted by One Hand Free Studios to post an honest review for their new game Waifu Uncovered. As a general rule, I tend to shy away from developer-requested reviews because I want to avoid any potential accusations of bias. But, considering this is a pretty inexpensive game with a very niche audience, I decided to make an exception.

First up, make no mistake, this is an adult only game. I’ve posted a couple of reviews in the past for similar games, but I usually save them for Valentines day where I present them in a very lighthearted way. This year I broke the trend and neglected to post such a review, so with that in mind, consider this my attempt to play catch up.

So, just what is Waifu Uncovered? Well, if we’re getting technical it’s a classic arcade-style bullet hell draped over an art gallery of lewd anime girls. It follows the formula laid out by other “strip-em-up” schmups like Deep Space Waifu (which I’ve reviewed in the past). Essentially, you play a horse-like character on a mission to rescue a number of girls held captive by “toxic clothing”.  It seems that the clothing in question is somehow possessed by evil aliens. The only way to rescue these poor maidens is to fly around in a spaceship and blast aliens until the clothing is no more. Yes, the set up is pretty ridiculous. But honestly, its meant to be taken tongue-in-cheek. It seems that H-games are all the rage on Steam these days, and this is another addition to the growing lineup of similar titles.

Now, casting aside the immature aspects of the game, there’s actually some pretty decent gameplay to be found here. To start with, the game is designed to provide an arcade-style experience. To start, there are no saves and continues. You have one play to try to rescue every girl. This can be done single player or with a friend. Each player controls a ship that starts off in barebones form, but as you blast your way through the game you’ll earn upgrades that enhance your ship in a number of ways. For starters, some boost the speed in which you can move around. Others increase firepower or provide you with better shields.

As you defeat enemies, little ninja stars rain down from the top of the screen. Collecting these stars are the key to eliminating the clothing needed to progress through the level. Once you’ve reached the end of the stage, a boss fight will ensue. Defeating the boss allows you to move on to the next rescue.

As you progress through the game, you’ll unlock new ships to pilot. Each ship is a little different. Some are focused on speed, others on firepower, etc. Eventually, you’ll be able to choose from a number of ships so that you can select the one you like best. Progressing through the game also unlocks new modes of play and playcontrol schemes.

The first mode of play you’ll want to focus on is Normal mode. This mode allows you to get your feet wet so that you can understand the nuances of the gameplay, unlock your ships, etc. Next up is Arcade mode, this is really the main focus of the game in my opinion. From here, if you’re good enough you can earn a spot on the leaderboards and even do battle with the ultimate boss of the game. Progressing through Arcade mode also unlocks the third and final option: one-hand mode (which is exactly what it sounds like).

In a world where strip-em-up games are now a trend, Waifu Uncovered does a pretty good job of standing on its own merits. Sure, the formula isn’t exactly original, but this game puts in more than enough effort to feel unique. It’s obvious that the developers really put in the time to make a real game and not just some cheap cash grab with lewd artwork. The challenge and gameplay here is actually pretty solid.

Of course, if schumps are your cup of tea there’s a number of more respectable titles out there that are likely to grab your attention. But if you’re a lonely weeabo that’s always dreamed about being a horse in a spaceship, well, your ship has finally come in. Just remember you have to be eighteen or older.

Version Reviewed: PC

Difficulty: Variable –  Normal mode is pretty chill. It’s pretty easy to blast your way through the whole game in Normal. Arcade mode is where the boys become men. If you’re looking to simply unlock everything the game has to offer and appreciate the artwork, Normal is probably the way to go. But if you’re actually here for the gameplay and want to see EVERYTHING the game has to offer, you’ll be spending time in Arcade mode.

Multiplayer:  Yes. Local and Online multiplayer.

Story: There’s really not much of a storyline to discuss here. But, then again, you probably knew that already.

Originality: This style of game is nothing new. But the developers have managed to add a few bells and whistles that make this one stand out a bit among the competition.

Soundtrack: The music is upbeat and fitting. None of the tracks get stuck in your head, but overall it’s very well done.

Fun: I imagine that most people will come for the “artwork” but stay for the gameplay. That’s certainly the case for me. The gameplay is better than expected and makes for a pretty good way to pass the time.

Graphics: The graphics are presented in a semi-crude hand drawn style, but it’s intentional. Overall the artwork is fitting and appropriate. It’s cute, but there’s nothing jaw dropping. No dynamic lighting or glowing projectiles to dazzle the eyes.

Playcontrol: When it comes to controlling the game, you basically have two options for the majority of the game; keyboard or controller. Playing this game with a keyboard is doable, but takes a little getting used to. For the best experience, I highly recommend using a controller. It just feels more natural and is much more responsive. Of course, once one-hand mode is available, you can also play using a mouse if you choose.

Downloadable Content: No.

Mature Content: This is a game that focuses on adult situations and inappropriate humor. Enemy names are often vulgar and obscene. Even though the Steam version of the game is censored, there is a developer-sanction method that allows full adult content and nudity. This is not one for children.

Value: This game is available for the low price of $3.00. You actually get a pretty significant amount of gameplay out those three dollars. If this type of game is your cup of tea, it’s well worth the price you pay.

Overall score (1-100): 70 – Many of the cheap H-games you’ll find on Steam these days are pretty terrible. This is not one of those games. Obviously, Waifu Uncovered is not meant to be taken seriously at all. But, with that being said, there’s actually a pretty respectable level of gameplay to be found. Regardless, the adult nature of the game will limit its audience.

Original System: PC

Available today on:  PC, Switch   – (Updated as of Spring 2022)

Best Experience: PC, Switch   – (Updated as of Spring 2022)