The latest co-op indie game to take over the internet is like one of my favourite board games, just with bombs
A new co-op bomb-defusal game puts four players as monkeys with restricted senses, forcing chaotic teamwork to prevent explosions.
Bombanana, a co-op bomb disposal game, casts players as monkeys with one unable to see, another unable to hear, and a third unable to speak, mirroring the three wise monkeys concept. The gameplay revolves around defusing bombs under pressure while navigating these sensory limitations, creating a uniquely challenging experience. Players must rely on unconventional communication methods to coordinate their actions, often leading to humorous and frustrating moments. The game’s premise draws parallels to Team 3, another co-op title based on the same concept.
The game’s mechanics require players to work together despite their sensory restrictions, with one monkey handling the instruction manual unable to speak and another, who can see but not hear, guiding the team. Communication becomes a puzzle in itself, as players must interpret gestures, written notes, or even banana-throwing to convey critical information. The blind monkey, tasked with defusing the bomb, often feels lost without visual cues, while the hearing-impaired monkey struggles to follow verbal instructions. This setup forces players to adapt quickly and creatively.
As levels progress, the difficulty escalates with additional puzzles, distractions, and a finicky gauge that triggers an explosion if not managed properly. The team’s initial attempts were marked by confusion and chaos, with players throwing bananas at each other in frustration before regrouping to strategize. The middle monkey, who can see but not hear, becomes the de facto leader, relaying information to the blind monkey and interpreting the manual-holder’s silent cues. Despite the challenges, the game’s chaotic nature and humor make it an engaging co-op experience.
The reviewer, playing as the blind monkey with the instruction manual, found the pressure overwhelming and admitted their team likely would have succeeded without their input. Despite the frustration and occasional singed outcomes, Bombanana delivered a fun and chaotic co-op experience that thrives on its unconventional premise. The game’s blend of sensory limitations and bomb defusal creates a fresh and entertaining challenge for groups of friends.