Double Fine has released Gang Beasts for consoles and PC, delivering a wildly entertaining party brawler that thrives on chaos and laughter. Known for its floppy physics and over-the-top melee combat, Gang Beasts is designed to be enjoyed with friends, making it one of those games that instantly livens up a couch or online gathering.
The game takes place in the fictional city of Beef City, where gelatinous thugs battle it out in a series of dangerous and often absurd locations. From rooftops and factories to moving trucks and subway platforms, every arena is built to test both your fighting skills and your ability to survive the environment itself.
At its core, Gang Beasts is a beat ’em up party game with a very simple goal: fight your opponents and be the last one standing. There are no complicated combos or deep move lists here. Instead, the game relies on basic punches, kicks, headbutts, and grabs, all driven by a physics system that makes every action unpredictable.
The combat feels intentionally clumsy, and that is where much of the humor comes from. Characters sway, stumble, and flop around like rubber dolls, turning even the most straightforward encounter into a slapstick comedy routine. A well-timed punch can knock out an opponent, but just as often it can send both players tumbling into danger.
Environmental hazards are a constant threat in Gang Beasts. Spinning fans, crushing pistons, open flames, and bottomless drops are scattered throughout each level. Many victories come not from landing the strongest hit, but from cleverly using the environment to your advantage.
The physics-based gameplay ensures that no two matches ever play out the same way. Grabbing an enemy can lead to a heroic throw or a mutual disaster, depending on timing and positioning. These unexpected outcomes keep the game feeling fresh even after dozens of matches.
Visually, Gang Beasts adopts a colorful and cartoonish art style that suits its lighthearted tone. The chunky character designs and simplified environments make it easy to read the action while enhancing the game’s comedic appeal.
Character customization adds another layer of fun. Players can dress their fighters in a wide range of costumes, from animals and mascots to wrestlers and ridiculous novelty outfits. These costumes don’t affect gameplay, but they do add personality and plenty of visual humor.
There are several game modes available, including free-for-all melee matches and team-based gang battles. While the game can technically be played solo, it is very clear that Gang Beasts is designed first and foremost as a multiplayer experience.
Local multiplayer is where the game truly shines. Sitting on a couch with friends, yelling and laughing as characters fall off ledges or accidentally knock themselves out, is the ideal way to experience Gang Beasts. Online multiplayer extends that chaos to a broader audience, though results can vary depending on connection stability.
Sound design supports the action well, with goofy sound effects and exaggerated impacts that enhance the slapstick feel. The characters’ grunts and reactions add to the sense that nothing happening on screen should be taken too seriously.
The controls take some getting used to, especially for new players. Grabbing, lifting, and throwing enemies requires practice, and the loose physics can initially feel frustrating. However, once players embrace the madness, the controls become part of the fun rather than a drawback.
While Gang Beasts has received updates since its original release, it has encountered bugs and technical hiccups over time. Occasional glitches, awkward camera angles, or unexpected physics behavior can disrupt the flow of a match, though these issues rarely ruin the overall experience.
Performance on Xbox One is generally solid, with smooth gameplay during most matches. Frame drops are rare, even during particularly chaotic moments with multiple players on screen.
Despite its simplicity, Gang Beasts has impressive replay value. The combination of varied stages, unpredictable physics, and multiplayer-focused design ensures that matches remain entertaining long after the initial novelty wears off.
The game doesn’t offer a deep progression system or long-term single-player content, which may disappoint players looking for a more traditional experience. However, this minimalistic approach keeps the focus squarely on fun and accessibility.
Gang Beasts succeeds because it understands exactly what it wants to be. It is not trying to deliver a complex narrative or competitive esports experience. Instead, it aims to create memorable moments through chaos, laughter, and shared experiences.
Every match tells its own ridiculous story, whether it’s two players hanging off a ledge refusing to let go or an entire group accidentally falling into a hazard at once. These moments are what make the game special.
The wacky gameplay, combined with charming visuals and strong multiplayer design, makes Gang Beasts an excellent choice for parties and casual gaming sessions. It’s a game that encourages experimentation, creativity, and a willingness to laugh at failure.
All in all, Gang Beasts is a hilarious and chaotic title packed with character and charm. If you’re looking for a silly, high-energy game to enjoy with friends, Gang Beasts delivers exactly that experience.
Game Information
Title: Gang Beasts
Developer: Boneloaf
Publisher: Double Fine Presents
Platforms: Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, PC
Reviewed On: Xbox One
Original Release Date: December 12, 2017
Genre: Party / Beat ’Em Up
Multiplayer: Local & Online
Score: 7.5 out of 10
Gang Beasts turns clumsy punches and floppy physics into unforgettable moments of pure multiplayer chaos.