Summary
- Release Year: 2016
- Genres: Arcade, Indie, Shooter
- Platforms: Linux, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: ASTRO PORT
- Publishers: Nyu Media, Storybird
Wolflame (2016): A Blazing Return to the Golden Age of Vertical Shoot ‘Em Ups
Wolflame is a vertical shoot ’em up (shmup) video game developed by Giga and published by Marvelous in 2016. It is a spiritual successor to the classic shmup Raiden, and features intense action, gorgeous pixel art, and a challenging difficulty curve.
Gameplay
Wolflame is a vertical scrolling shooter in which the player controls a spaceship that must defeat waves of increasingly difficult enemies. The player’s ship can fire a variety of weapons, including lasers, missiles, and bombs. The player can also collect power-ups that enhance the ship’s firepower and speed.
One of the unique features of Wolflame is its “Overdrive” system. When the player’s ship is damaged, it enters Overdrive mode. In Overdrive mode, the ship’s firepower and speed are increased, but it also takes more damage. The player must use Overdrive mode strategically to survive the game’s increasingly difficult levels.
Story
Wolflame is set in a distant future in which the Earth has been invaded by an alien race known as the Grazon. The player takes on the role of a pilot who must fight the Grazon and save the Earth.
The story of Wolflame is told through brief cutscenes between levels. The cutscenes are well-written and do a good job of setting the game’s atmosphere and stakes.
Graphics and Sound
Wolflame features beautiful pixel art graphics that are reminiscent of the classic shmups of the 1980s and 1990s. The game’s backgrounds are detailed and colorful, and the enemy designs are creative and varied.
The game’s soundtrack is also excellent. The music is fast-paced and adrenaline-pumping, and it perfectly complements the game’s intense action.
Difficulty
Wolflame is a challenging game, but it is also fair. The game’s difficulty curve is well-paced, and the player is always given a chance to learn the game’s mechanics before facing the more difficult challenges.
The game also features a variety of difficulty settings, so players of all skill levels can enjoy it.
Conclusion
Wolflame is a fantastic return to the form of classic 2D vertical shooters. With its intense action, gorgeous pixel art, and challenging difficulty, it is a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review Score
8.5/10
Pros
- Intense action
- Gorgeous pixel art
- Challenging difficulty curve
- Variety of difficulty settings
Cons
- Short campaign
- Can be repetitive at times
Overall
Wolflame is a highly recommended shmup that is sure to please fans of the genre. With its intense action, gorgeous pixel art, and challenging difficulty, it is a must-play for anyone who enjoys classic arcade-style shooters.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
