Xanthiom 2

Even better than the first one, but includes a slightly improved version of the original as well anyway. Two minuses to get out of the way first however: -In most areas the music remains very... "elevator muzak". It's not quite languid enough to take away from any situations, but it never really pumps you up at a critical time either. -The 'speed booster' equivalent, though it works very well when that's all you need in puzzle situations, is on the 'tool' select bar (along with missiles, etc) instead of having its own key or situational activation. Sound effects are fine - nothing too annoying, informative enough when necessary, nothing over the top. As for the plusses: Lotta gun combinations with fun effects. Manages a decent enough balance of "just put this new thing on" versus "take a few minutes to come up with something non-sane". You'll do alright enough if you just stick to the basics, and if you decide not to, well that's probably what keeping up on hard+modifiers is about. Most of the traversal upgrades are standard-ish fare, but they work well, and don't pile up in any troubling way. Biomes are a bit heavy on the "underground caverns" focus, but do have a bit of variety to them, with some different mechanics in several as well. Puzzle 'rooms' are not too infuriating, some can be brute-forced too if you really want to but there's almost always a decent clue or even the solution not too far away. It's usually for bonus gun components or the less critical abilities, so many can be skipped if you really hate that stuff. All in all, after a few playthroughs, no regrets whatsoever. A few little wishes (on music, and a solid beam would be cool) but not regrets.

Great Metroid-like! The feeling of getting overpowered with weapon can get a bit ridiculous (love it!!) Exploration is fun, upgrades feel worthwile and boss fights are fun and fair (or easy with enough upgrades) Music was ok and at some points repetitive but nowhere near a deal breaker Well worth the price!

Love the retro art style. Had so much fun. For those who didn't know, the game comes with Xanthiom Zero remake also. Solid 9/10 -1 because mate game weapon mods make the game too easy. Overheat mechanism would have balanced it a bit idk.