Game review: Deathsmiles: Deluxe Edition

Published on Wednesday 23 February 2011 11:09

Thanks to the sustained popularity of the digital distribution arena, the scrolling shoot-em-up genre continues to be opened up to the gaming public.

It's a common format for the genre, so it is surprising that a game so niche and hardcore as Deathsmiles: Deluxe Edition has warranted a boxed release. After spending some time with it however, it's clear that this is no run-of-the-mill shooter.

Taking control of one of four characters, players must defeat a corrupt mage who has unleashed a horde of occult demons into the world.

Gameplay is presented in a traditional side-scrolling format similar to classic shooter R-Type, although players can shoot left and right.

This simple change to the template allows the game to throw an onslaught of enemies and hazards at the player from both sides, resulting in tense "bullet hell" gameplay.

The addition of Familiars - animal guardians that protect each character by deflecting bullets - is a neat touch. Each animal can be controlled with the right stick, and careful use can mean the difference between life and death.

There are multiple endings to unlock, as well as more than ten game modes, including remixed editions of the arcade original and a re-mastered Xbox 360-exclusive remix.

As such, there is plenty to see throughout Deathsmiles: Deluxe Edition, and while it will cater to a small cross-section of gamers, the budget asking price makes for a generous package.

Deathsmiles: Deluxe Edition

19.99, Xbox 360

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This article was first published in The Scotsman, 5 March, 2011