The Stretchers

Thestretchers

The Stretchers is a cooperative action game developed by Tarsier Studios and published by Nintendo for the Nintendo Switch console. Released on November 8, 2019, the game tasks players with navigating various levels to rescue dizzied citizens and transport them to the ambulance, all while overcoming obstacles and puzzles. The game is notable for its humorous approach to the puzzle and action genres, emphasizing teamwork and coordination between two players.

Gameplay

In The Stretchers, players take on the roles of two paramedics who must navigate through a variety of levels to rescue dizzied citizens, referred to as "Dizzies". The game is designed for cooperative play, with each player controlling one of the paramedics. Players must work together to lift and carry patients to their ambulance, navigating through puzzles and obstacles that require coordination and strategic thinking.

The game features a variety of tools and vehicles to assist in the rescues, including stretchers, ambulances, and other gadgets. Levels are filled with humorous challenges and traps that can hinder progress or cause the Dizzies to fall off the stretcher, requiring players to carefully plan their moves and work in sync to successfully complete the missions.

Development and Release

Developed by Tarsier Studios, known for their work on games like Little Nightmares, The Stretchers was a departure from the studio's usual focus on horror and suspense. The game was published by Nintendo, marking a collaboration that brought a unique and lighthearted experience to the Nintendo Switch platform.

The Stretchers was released with little prior announcement, surprising players with its sudden launch on the Nintendo eShop. Despite the lack of extensive marketing, the game received positive reviews for its engaging cooperative gameplay and humorous approach to the action-puzzle genre.

Reception

Critics praised The Stretchers for its fun and engaging cooperative gameplay, highlighting the game's ability to encourage communication and teamwork between players. The game's humor, level design, and unique challenges were also noted as strong points. However, some reviews mentioned that the game could become repetitive over time and that its appeal might be limited for those looking for a more traditional single-player experience.

Legacy

While The Stretchers did not make a significant impact on the gaming industry, it has been appreciated by players and critics alike for its charm, humor, and innovative approach to cooperative gameplay. The game stands as an example of how video games can bring people together, offering a shared experience that is both challenging and entertaining.