The Maw Image
Metascore

Generally favorable reviews - based on 40 Critics What's this?

User Score

Generally favorable reviews- based on 21 Ratings

  • Summary: [Xbox Live Arcade] The pinnacle of alien evolution, Maw is a cowardly fat blob concerned mostly with snacking and lounging. He can, however, absorb the traits of anything he eats, is virtually indestructible, and can grow to unlimited size. If he wasn't a danger to all life in the universe, he'd make the perfect pet. In this action/adventure game, he's the best friend of our hero Frank, and only by working together can Maw eat their way to freedom. The Maw was honored with the Audience Choice Award in the 2008 PAX-10 showcase of independent games, and is a finalist at this year's Independent Games Festival for Technical Excellence. [Twisted Pixel] Expand
Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 27 out of 40
  2. Negative: 0 out of 40
  1. It may not be the biggest Jewel, or the most Expensive, but its most certainly up there with the shiniest.
  2. If you’ve finally caught up on all the holiday’s big titles, and are looking to blow some MS Points, The Maw is the way to go.
  3. Roll The Maw’s gameplay, visuals and audio together and you have one very tasty yumyum, not to mention one of the better original IP’s to hit Xbox Live Arcade in awhile.
  4. The Maw's a very good game, just don't expect it to rival a title such as Bionic Commando: Rearmed.

See all 40 Critic Reviews

Score distribution:
  1. Positive: 3 out of 3
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 3
  3. Negative: 0 out of 3
  1. rbee
    9
    This really is fantastic fun. In downloading demo after disappointing demo on XBLA for my 10 year old son, I've gotten used to sizing up games based on their faults and ruling out purchase after purchase within minutes. The Maw is the first game I've really really wanted to see more of, and am willing to pay a great amount to get. My son sat down and worked out the level in moments and it was wonderful, although I suspect he would not be so interested in the game in a few years from now. More Maw! Soon! Please! Expand
  2. MadsA
    8
    This is truly a great gem. You play as a blue alien named Frank, who are taken captive inside a big spaceship together with a lot of other animals. There he meets his soon-to-be-friend Maw, a big purple blob with one huge eye and sharp teeth. The ship eventually crashes, and the game begins. The game consists of some puzzles along the way, but the main game mechanic is to find food for Maw, while controlling Frank. Frank controls Maw via a chain, but he can also let Maw roam around free. Some animals give Maw special powers when eaten, and are used to solve puzzles or getting around obstacles. After eating a varying amount of animals, Maw grows and increases in size, and the level's exit opens. Also note that you can't die in this game, which makes the game a bit short, but free of frustration for smaller children. The graphics are truly great, which helps to bring the two hilarious characters to life. The artwork is very well done. This game is refreshing to see on Xbox Live Arcade, due to it's cute characters and humour. I really want to see the Maw character in more titles to come. Though the target audience probably is kids, this is a game everyone can enjoy no matter age. A free demo is available on Xbox Live Marketplace, There is no excuse for not trying this great game. Expand
  3. HagenMcMenemy
    7
    A very amuzing game that is a welcome break from all of the bloody killing and complex platforming of the recent great '08 games. Sit back, enjoy the music, corky story, adorable characters, and addictive gameplay. Don't be put off by how short it is. It's well worth 800 msp. Expand