This review contains SPOILERS! Click to expand.
On first glances it looks like exactly the kind of game that whilst it looks like a lot of fun, I would probably lack the skillset to make very much progress. Happily, with roguelike games, it does not really matter how good at dodging bullets and killing enemies you are because there are upgrades to help you! I have had so much fun playing this game and have surprised myself
On first glances it looks like exactly the kind of game that whilst it looks like a lot of fun, I would probably lack the skillset to make very much progress. Happily, with roguelike games, it does not really matter how good at dodging bullets and killing enemies you are because there are upgrades to help you! I have had so much fun playing this game and have surprised myself at how good I am (humble brag).
You will collect credits as you play through which you need to unlock the upgrades for your ship. These upgrades range from having a wider pickup radius to having extra rockets and more health so are worthwhile. There are several game modes which you’ll unlock as you make your way through the story with “Boss Rush” being the best way to earn the credits although at this point you have already completed the 15 levels of the campaign.
Aside from the campaign levels and the boss rush mode there is also:
Invasion Mode: Think horde style mode, do not let any enemies get past you or its game over!
Rescue Mode: Rescue as many astronauts as possible whilst also killing enemies.
Shield Maiden Mode: Starting with essentially no health and very low-quality weapons, you have to survive as long as possible.
So needless to say, there is plenty of replay value in the different modes in the game to keep you occupied once you’ve completed the campaign.
You have a choice of controls which was nice, if you do not fancy using the triggers for shooting then you can use the buttons for a more retro experience. There are 3 different firing patterns and you can alternate between them as you feel necessary. Personally, I used the RT+LT combo throughout the entire game as it seemed to get more of the enemies plus, I am not an accurate shooter.
The game looks great and has a wonderfully nostalgic feel to it, reminding me somewhat of space invaders. I love that some of the levels alternate between horizontal and vertical scrolling, keeping the level fresh. The animations are smooth, and I haven’t encountered any screen tearing or crashes. My only real issue (and it is a small one) with the game is that after you have finished a level there are such long pauses when trying to continue or submit your name that it almost feels as if the game simply isn’t responding. I am assuming that it is just the game saving in the background, but it was a little annoying having to wait for so long just to get back into a new level.
Overall, I have really enjoyed playing Habroxia and I really do not have much bad to say about the game which is such a refreshing thing to say these days. Habroxia 2 will be coming to our gaming platform of choice on February 3rd, 2021 and I really cannot wait!
From an achievement perspective, Habroxia is a relatively quick completion which I would estimate needing a couple of hours if you are decent at this genre of game. There are a few achievements which may require some more skill than others but with perseverance, you will get there in the end!
TL: DR: Would I recommend? ABSOLUTELY 8/10!