Revisiting Finding Frankie: Does the Console Port Live Up to the Hype?
- Lewis
- 12 minutes ago
- 11 min read
Imagine stumbling across an old VHS tape buried at the bottom of a cereal box—dusty, mysterious, and strangely inviting. You pop it in out of curiosity, only to be thrown headfirst into a deadly parkour game show where the prize is $5 million… and the price for failure is your life. No, this isn’t your typical Saturday morning cartoon—this is a full-blown mascot horror experience where every leap, vault, and sprint could be your last.
Hey everyone, Lewis here, back with another XPN Gaming review. If you know me, you’ll know I’ve got a soft spot (or should I say soft scare?) for mascot horror. From the animatronic nightmares of Five Nights at Freddy’s to the twisted toys of Poppy Playtime, I’ve experienced the lot. So when I first played this title on Steam back in 2024, developed by the brilliantly twisted minds at SUPERLOU, I was instantly hooked by its high-speed blend of parkour chaos and unhinged mascot horror.
Now, it’s made the jump to consoles, and I couldn’t resist diving back in to see how it holds up with a controller in hand. Does it deliver the same thrills, scares, and smooth gameplay on the big screen?
And of course, I can’t go without mentioning the star of the show: Frankie the Magician Rabbit. He may look like a Saturday morning sidekick, but under the surface? Pure nightmare fuel. Think Sonic the Hedgehog with a vendetta, filtered through the surreal lens of Donnie Darko.
Finding Frankie Developer: SUPERLOU Publisher: Perp Games Genre: Adventure, Platformer, Mascot Horror
Platforms/Price: PS5 - £15.99 Xbox Series X|S - £15.99
Release Date: 15th of April 2025
I won’t lie—Finding Frankie has carved out a special place in my heart. The fusion of high-speed parkour and nightmare-fuelled mascots delivers an experience like no other. We’ve seen chase sequences in horror before, but nothing matches the pure adrenaline and thrill this game brings to the table.
Having already spent time with Finding Frankie on Steam, I was eager to dive into the console version and see how it translated to the big screen. The tighter controls, smooth performance, and immersive atmosphere feel right at home on console, making this twisted playground even more engaging.
But did the final product leap over the bar or come crashing down?
Did the console release of Finding Frankie manage to leave that same thrilling, unforgettable impression, that lingering excitement that stays with you long after the credits roll? Or was it the same feeling I had before, leaving me wanting more but still uncertain about its lasting impact?
Let’s dive in and find out if this twisted game show has what it takes to stay in the ranks of mascot horror royalty—or if it’s destined to disappear into the shadows of the genre.
Story & Setting
What kind of person signs up for something as shady and secretive as Finding Frankie? It all begins with a seemingly harmless box of Frankie’s Fruit Flakes—but tucked inside is a strange VHS tape promising a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: survive a deadly parkour game show and walk away with $5 million. Tempting, right?
You’re thrown into a vibrant, nostalgia-drenched world that looks like it was pulled straight from a childhood cartoon—but don’t be fooled. Behind the candy-coloured charm lies a lethal competition where you're up against four other contestants, all fighting to stay alive.
This isn’t just a game show. It’s a deadly test of speed, nerve, and survival.
The only real question is… can you make it out alive, or will Frankie be pulling another vanishing act—with you as the finale?
The world of Finding Frankie is deceptively vibrant and moderately expansive, set within a massive three-storey complex stitched together with twisting tunnels and clunky elevators. This isn't just any building—it's Frankie’s Parkour Palace: a chaotic fusion of trampolines, water slides, and parkour arenas that feels like a dream destination... if that dream slowly morphed into a nightmare. Behind the bright colours and bouncy surfaces lies something far more sinister—a brutal, illegal game show broadcast on the dark web, pulling in over 19,000 twisted viewers who pay, chat, and vote as contestants fight for survival.
While this first entry in the series only scratches the surface when it comes to notes or in-depth lore, there’s a chilling sense of something darker lurking beneath. The developers at SUPERLOU have built a world bursting with childhood nostalgia—yet reimagined through a disturbing, horror-soaked lens. Whether you’re leaping across a giant water park or scaling a hazard-filled icy mountain, each area is masterfully crafted, feeling equal parts whimsical and wicked. These aren’t just levels—they’re experiences, each packed with unique environmental storytelling and deadly charm.
And then there’s the gore. Oh, the gore. SUPERLOU didn’t hold back when it came to showing just how brutal Finding Frankie can get. From mangled bodies to grotesque traps, the visual detail in every horrifying moment is executed with jaw-clenching precision. The contrast between playful settings and gut-wrenching violence only amplifies the unease, keeping you constantly on edge.
It leaves you asking: how did something meant for laughter and thrills become so twisted? That jarring contrast—between joy and terror, between playtime and peril—is what makes Finding Frankie’s world so hauntingly unforgettable.
Gameplay
The core gameplay in Finding Frankie is designed with controllers in mind, offering a smooth and responsive experience for those who prefer the comfort of analogue sticks during intense moments. But don’t think this makes things any easier—this isn’t your typical platformer. Precision is key, and mastering the game’s momentum-based mechanics takes time and practice. Miss a swing, and you won’t just lose progress—you’ll likely find yourself running straight into Frankie’s relentless, bloodthirsty pursuit.
One of the game’s standout features is its demanding parkour system. Wall jumping, for example, requires pinpoint timing; you’ll need to press jump at the exact moment you hit the next trampoline to keep your momentum going. The game constantly challenges your reflexes and muscle memory, making every successful move feel like a small victory.
Unlike many mascot horror titles, Finding Frankie ditches combat entirely. There are no weapons, no hiding spots—just you, your legs, and your ability to think fast under pressure. The chase is everything. Outrunning Frankie becomes a white-knuckle experience, especially when you’re navigating tight turns or sprinting toward a fuse box with seconds to spare.
To keep things fresh, Finding Frankie throws in a variety of traversal mechanics: wall running, rail grinding, and swinging from poles, all essential for reaching critical objectives before time runs out. Trampolines are everywhere, helping you bounce between areas, while the slide mechanic gives you a welcome speed boost when trying to escape danger or simply shave off a few seconds during timed sections.
Puzzles are kept simple but tense, usually centred around activating fuse boxes to open new paths or buy yourself some time. These light puzzle elements slot perfectly into the flow of parkour, maintaining a relentless pace without slowing things down.
The gameplay strikes a thrilling balance between precision platforming and heart-pounding horror, ensuring you’re always one step away from triumph—or total disaster.
The difficulty curve in Finding Frankie can feel a little uneven at times. Some sections ease you in with manageable platforming and clear objectives, while others, particularly the final level, dial up the pressure to a borderline punishing degree. Without diving into spoiler territory, let’s just say Frankie’s relentless determination during the climax might have you clenching your controller in frustration more than once.
But here’s the good news: death isn’t a game over. Respawns are fairly forgiving, and each attempt becomes a learning opportunity. Like any good challenge, it’s all about recognising patterns, keeping your cool, and staying persistent. Still, your mileage may vary—what feels brutally tough for one player might be a breeze for another, especially if you’re already familiar with parkour-heavy games.
One area where Finding Frankie really shines is its mascot, A.I. The enemies aren’t just background threats—they’re dynamic, reactive, and genuinely smart in how they track and pursue you. They’ll keep you on your toes, adapting to your movement and forcing you to think fast and stay sharp. Their unpredictability turns each encounter into a thrilling, high-stakes test of your reflexes and route-planning.
In short, while the difficulty might spike unexpectedly at times, the tension it creates only adds to the adrenaline-fuelled experience. Just be ready for a few rage-inducing moments along the way!
Unlike many modern horror titles, Finding Frankie skips the usual skill trees or upgrade systems. Instead, the focus is firmly on raw skill, speed, and exploration. That said, there are a few hidden extras tucked away for the more curious players—namely, collectable Frankie plushies cleverly hidden throughout each level. If you have found Deputy Duck , his skills can be used to help find the troublesome bots. Tracking them down is no easy feat, but they add a nice incentive for those who love a good challenge and want to explore every nook and cranny.
And while I won’t spoil anything, let’s just say there’s a unique twist introduced about halfway through the game that shakes up the experience in a very cool way. It’s a clever mechanic that adds depth without distracting from the fast-paced flow—and trust me, it’s worth discovering on your own.
When it comes to replayability, Finding Frankie keeps things fairly minimal, but not without its hooks. Beyond revisiting levels to track down any hidden Frankie bot plushies you may have missed or challenging yourself in the dedicated speed run mode, there’s also a global leaderboard system.
This adds a competitive edge for players looking to test their speed and skill against others worldwide. While the core narrative may feel like a one-and-done ride, these features give completionists and competitive players a solid reason to dive back in and shave seconds off their runs.
Graphics & Visual Design
Mascot horror games tend to swing between extremes—either diving into gritty realism or embracing a stylised, hand-drawn look. Finding Frankie lands impressively in the middle, blending its cartoonish, larger-than-life characters with rich, detailed environments that feel grounded yet surreal. SUPERLOU’s artistic direction is spot-on, striking a perfect balance that enhances both the unsettling atmosphere and the playful, twisted charm of the world. It’s a visual style that not only fits the narrative but elevates the entire experience.
Finding Frankie delivers a polished performance across the board, running smoothly without any noticeable bugs or technical hiccups to break immersion. It’s clear the developers at SUPERLOU put in the work to optimise the game properly—my entire playthrough held a consistent 60FPS, making every parkour sequence feel fluid, responsive, and enjoyable from start to finish.
Cutscenes in Finding Frankie are used sparingly but effectively. Rather than relying on lengthy cinematics, the game leans into fluid transitions between gameplay and cinematic moments, particularly during mascot encounters. These scenes blend seamlessly with the action, keeping you immersed while heightening the tension and drama. It’s a clever approach that maintains momentum without breaking the pace of the experience.
Sound & Music
The sound design in Finding Frankie is masterfully crafted, enhancing the game’s immersive atmosphere with its rich array of effects. From the gruesome sounds of violence to the piercing alarms that ramp up the tension, every audio cue serves a purpose.
Frankie’s pursuit is a prime example—his heavy footsteps, haunting voice, and the chaotic clatter of the environment during high-speed chases all build a constant sense of panic and urgency, ensuring you never feel safe. The soundscape truly heightens the game’s sense of horror and keeps you on edge.
Voice acting in Finding Frankie may be minimal, but it’s incredibly effective. Take Henry Hotline, for instance—his voice is filled with raw panic and character, bringing depth to the role and showcasing the actor’s skill.
The game also features an announcer whose direct commentary enhances the immersion, constantly addressing you as you navigate the chaos. Meanwhile, the protagonist remains silent, allowing you to fully embody their experience and feel more connected to the high-stakes action.
The music in Finding Frankie is integral to the game’s atmosphere, with a varied soundtrack that perfectly complements the emotions and action on screen. The music flows effortlessly between light-hearted, playful tunes that evoke the childlike spirit of Frankie’s Parkour Palace and intense, suspenseful tracks that heighten the tension during high-stakes moments. This contrast reinforces the unsettling nature of the game, where cheerful melodies clash with the dark, dangerous events unfolding, reminding you that what should be a fun, innocent world is anything but.
User Experience & Accessibility
The interface in Finding Frankie is sleek and streamlined, keeping distractions to a minimum. No map or health bar is cluttering up the screen—just a simple reticule and occasional mission prompts or subtitles when characters speak. This minimalist design allows you to stay fully immersed in the action and the world around you.
However, it’s worth noting that Finding Frankie currently lacks dedicated accessibility options, which may be a drawback for players who require more tailored support. That said, the ability to fully remap all controls does help accommodate different playstyles and offers a degree of flexibility, making the overall experience a bit more manageable.
Load times are impressively short, allowing you to jump straight into the action with minimal waiting. Performance is equally solid, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted experience from start to finish.
Innovation & Comparisons
One of Finding Frankie’s most distinctive features is its dynamic parkour system—a refreshing twist in the mascot horror genre. While there’s a learning curve, the movement quickly becomes fluid and rewarding, especially during high-stakes moments. Unlike other games where combat is key, Finding Frankie strips things down to pure survival, relying solely on your reflexes, timing, and agility.
Of course, there’s also a clever mechanic introduced later in the game that proves essential during one of its toughest segments—but I’ll leave that surprise for you to discover.
When stacked up against other mascot horror titles, Finding Frankie carves out its own identity. While it shares a first-person viewpoint and stylised charm reminiscent of Poppy Playtime, its gameplay and premise are refreshingly different.
Unlike Five Nights at Freddy’s, which centres on stationary survival, Finding Frankie throws you into a fast-paced, parkour-driven gauntlet. What really sets it apart is its originality—it doesn’t feel like a clone or rehash. Instead, it brings something genuinely new to the genre, offering a thrilling and distinct experience that stands confidently on its own.
Strengths
Finding Frankie shines brightest through its standout features. The parkour system is a true highlight—smooth, responsive, and exhilarating, it captures the thrill of navigating each obstacle with precision and momentum. The characters leave a lasting impression, while the vibrant, imaginative environments echo the playful chaos of Fall Guys, but with a darker twist. Visually, the art style hits the mark, striking the perfect balance between charm and creepiness. Paired with an atmospheric soundtrack and a compelling narrative, the game delivers a well-rounded, engaging experience that’s hard to forget.
Weaknesses
Despite its many strengths, Finding Frankie isn’t without a few noticeable drawbacks. One of the biggest frustrations for me was the lack of sensitivity options—I often found myself unable to turn quickly enough, which is especially problematic in a game built around speed and fluid movement. It occasionally broke the flow of what should’ve been fast-paced and thrilling moments.
Another issue is the lighting. The game is ridiculously dark in places, and without a flashlight or any in-game option to adjust brightness, navigating some areas became more frustrating than frightening. While darkness can enhance tension, it shouldn’t come at the cost of visibility and playability.
Lastly, the game wraps up in just around an hour and a half. While I appreciate experiences that don’t drag on unnecessarily, the short runtime, paired with the £15.99 price tag, left me wishing there was just a bit more to sink my teeth into.
The A.I. also had its ups and downs. There were moments where it felt a little too unpredictable or unbalanced, leading to sections that felt more frustrating than challenging. It never broke the game, but it occasionally disrupted the otherwise smooth flow of gameplay.
Another area that felt underdeveloped was the lore. For a world so visually rich and thematically intriguing, it was disappointing not to find more story breadcrumbs—no tapes, no hidden documents, nothing to feed your curiosity. I was left with a lot of questions that the game simply didn’t answer. Hopefully, a potential sequel will dig deeper into the dark roots of Frankie’s twisted world.
Final Thoughts
Now, you might have plenty of questions, but I’ve got a few for you: How ready are you to make some new friends? Can you survive the chaos, outpace the competition, and walk away with that tempting $5 million prize? Or will you become just another unfortunate soul cheered on by thousands of anonymous viewers in the shadows of the dark web?
There’s only one way to find out—on your marks, get set… GO!
And if you do make it out in one piece, don’t get too comfortable. Whispers from SUPERLOU suggest that a sequel is already in the works, promising new environments, deadlier mascots, and even more twisted games. Rumours hint at a whole new facility, a darker backstory, and perhaps, just perhaps—a way to uncover the truth behind Frankie’s Parkour Palace. Are you ready to return… or will the next game be watching you before you even realise it?
A huge thank you to everyone who took the time to read this review – your support truly means the world to me and is always appreciated!
On behalf of all of us here, thank you once again! I’m Lewis, and this has been another XPN Gaming review. Oh, and before you leave, don’t forget to… KEEP GAMING!
XPN Rating: Four (Out of Five) Gold
(Thank you to Tom at Strange Signals and the team at SUPERLOU for providing the key for this review.)
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