In the ever-expanding universe of video games, a new star is rising, reminiscent of the golden age of gaming. This star is Xelan Force, a shoot 'em up (shmup) that's gliding into the hearts of classic game aficionados and new players alike. Released last month on Steam and now launching on the Nintendo Switch eShop, Xelan Force invites its players to relive the nostalgia of the Famicom/NES era with its pure retro aesthetic and gameplay.
The game appears to have been slightly overshadowed by the flood of new titles hitting digital stores. It debuted among more than 65 other games on the eShop, which understandably might lead to some standout games not getting the spotlight they deserve. This is the current fate of Xelan Force, a game that is not merely a nod to the past but a heartfelt tribute capturing the essence and exuberance of the classic gaming days.
Developers at Pixel have poured their intentions clear as crystal for players on the game's Steam page, expressing a desire to reignite the excitement of retro gaming and share it with the next generation. They went to great lengths to ensure that Xelan Force feels like an authentic retro experience, reproducing the same sound quality as the original Famicom console, using a limited color palette, and steering away from modern gaming expressions as much as possible.
The music of Xelan Force, composed by Yasuhiro Inazawa, who is known for his work on Death Crimson OX, further accentuates its nostalgic charm. The soundtrack hits all the right notes for a throwback adventure, keeping you engrossed in the gameplay while the 8-bit world unfolds before you.
Players have already taken to Steam to express their admiration for Xelan Force, citing its classic shmup elements that remind them of revered games like Aleste and the PC Engine Soldier series. It has been noted for not trying to reinvent the wheel; instead, Xelan Force has mastered the balance of maintaining an approachable difficulty while still delivering a thoroughly enjoyable gameplay experience. It's the kind of game that manages to feel both familiar and fresh, with each session taking you back to a simpler time in gaming history while also providing a satisfying challenge to modern players.
The visuals of Xelan Force carry the distinctive Famicom flair—an aesthetic deeply ingrained in the memories of those who grew up with the iconic gaming system. These graphics not only serve the purpose of nostalgia but also offer a clarity and simplicity that can sometimes be lost in the more complex visuals of contemporary games.
Xelan Force has been welcomed by a community of gamers who appreciate the resurgence of old school style shooters. It joins the ranks of recent titles such as Ganablade, Raioh, and Kaikan as well as the rereleased classics in the Toaplan collections. It finds its place comfortably among these games, becoming a cherished addition to the libraries of those who hold a fondness for pixelated projectiles and interstellar dogfights.
Affordably priced at around £7 or $10, Xelan Force presents itself as an accessible escape into the world of retro gaming without breaking the bank. It's a small price to pay for a ticket back to the glory days of the NES, a journey that promises both the thrill of a space battle and the warmth of gaming nostalgia.
Xelan Force is more than just a game for those who appreciate the artistry of retro pixels; it's a lovingly crafted piece of art that stands as a testament to the impact of the games of yesteryear. If you're a fan of the shmup genre or just looking for a dive into the days of old-school gaming, Xelan Force is waiting for you on the eShop, ready to whisk you away on a nostalgic adventure through the stars.
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