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In The Maw gamers play as Frank, an alien that looks like a cute, bipedal ant. He and Maw, a purple, one-eyed critter the size of a basketball (at least at the start), are captives on a spaceship. The ship crashes and a mutually beneficial relationship quickly develops. Frank is the brains, the Maw is the brawn and the two work together to make their way through an unfamiliar planet.
While the plot sounds ominous, the game is anything but. Its charming, with likeable characters and plenty of mild humor. Maw is like a pet (think Cookie Monster with razor sharp teeth) who has a hearty laugh and a tongue that always hangs out like a golden retriever. Frank, who leads Maw around on an electric leash, is a good natured sort, even when being knocked down or getting dragged around by his constantly growing friend.
Gameplay centers on Maw’s considerable appetite. When he eats he not only grows but occasionally absorbs the ability of whatever animal he consumes. This gives the game a welcome change of pace and allows Frank the necessary tools to complete each level’s puzzles. Feeding Maw different creatures lets him breathe fire, turn into a floating puffball, a horned battering ram, and even a multi-eyed, laser shooting blob you can ride like an elephant. Simple controls, gameplay reminiscent of old school 3D platformers, solid graphics and an excellent audio presentation (the soundtrack is great but the voice effects are even better) all compliment The Maw’s goofball style.
