Galactic Wars EX
- April 29, 2022
- Volcano Bytes
"Galactic Wars" is a real-time strategy game set in space where players must build and manage their own space empire. Gather resources, research technology, and construct a diverse range of spaceships to explore, expand, exploit, and exterminate. Engage in large-scale PvP battles against other players or AI-controlled factions to assert dominance in the galaxy.
Reviews
- Galactic Wars EX features unique mechanics that challenge traditional shmup gameplay, requiring players to manage their shots and energy effectively.
- The game offers a variety of ships with different play styles, enhancing replayability and allowing players to choose their preferred approach.
- The retro visuals and old-school arcade difficulty provide a nostalgic experience for fans of the genre.
- The lack of an options menu prevents players from adjusting controls, display settings, or audio levels, leading to a frustrating experience.
- The missile powerup is ineffective, being slow and easily destroyed, which diminishes its usefulness in combat.
- Continues feel punishing as players respawn without upgrades, making it particularly frustrating during boss fights.
- gameplay9 mentions
- 22 % positive mentions
- 44 % neutral mentions
- 33 % negative mentions
The gameplay is characterized by a unique twist on common genre mechanics, requiring players to manage shots and learn enemy patterns across three distinct levels, each introducing new gameplay elements. The limited energy weapon system adds a layer of strategy, encouraging replayability as players navigate challenges and improve their skills through repeated attempts. Overall, the game offers a blend of engaging mechanics and artistic appeal that enhances the player experience.
“The limited energy weapon mechanic does make it stand out among other shmups.”
“It's only 3 levels long, but each has its own mechanics, feels different, and allows you to learn as you go and replay, as you will die many times trying to get to the finish.”
“This game takes the most common--near universal--mechanical tropes of the genre and turns them on their ear.”
“It's only 3 levels long, but each has its own mechanics and feels different, allowing you to learn as you go and replay, as you will die many times trying to get to the finish.”
“Level 1 space = starter level designed to force the player to understand the game's power-up mechanics.”
- graphics6 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 50 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game's graphics are characterized by beautiful pixel art and charming visuals that effectively capture a retro aesthetic, earning praise for their nostalgic appeal.
“The beautiful pixel art and the overall cute visuals complete the retro aesthetic of the game.”
“Great retro visuals.”
“Love the retro aesthetics!”
- grinding1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Players note that the game features a strong emphasis on grinding for high scores and achievements, alongside speed-running strategies, making it appealing for those who enjoy competitive play and mastery of mechanics.
“The game feels more like a chore than a fun experience, with endless grinding for upgrades.”
“I spent hours grinding for resources, and it just felt repetitive and tedious.”
“The grind is so excessive that it overshadows the actual gameplay, making it hard to enjoy.”
- replayability1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -500 % neutral mentions
- 300 % negative mentions
Players appreciate the high replayability of the game, noting that the distinct flying mechanics of each character enhance the overall experience and encourage multiple playthroughs.
“The variety in gameplay mechanics adds a significant level of replayability.”
“Each character's unique abilities enhance the overall replayability of the game.”
“The different strategies required for each playthrough keep the experience fresh and engaging.”
“The different flight mechanics add a level of replayability, but it still feels limited after a few runs.”
“While the game offers various characters, the core gameplay doesn't change enough to keep me coming back.”
“I found the replayability lacking; once you've experienced the main story, there's little incentive to play again.”
- story1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 100 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The story aspect is criticized for its frustrating gameplay mechanics, particularly when players continue with no upgrades, making boss encounters feel unnecessarily challenging and leading to a desire to restart missions.