Zenodeath

Zenodeath is the final game in the Zeno series and the developer's experience shows. High quality indie shmups like this are a real delight! The game includes shmup sections and top down run 'n' gun sections. The game is much longer than average as a result, which can be daunting when doing full runs, but the added variety means it really doesn't feel its length when you're in the moment. As someone who is new to the second type of gameplay I was sceptical, but I'm glad I have it a chance. The scoring system revolves around chaining enemies, collecting medals and strategic use of bombs for big bullet cancels, which is more than enough to keep you on your toes, and to make going after the many point-based extends rewarding. The soundtrack is, as expected, excellent and while the visuals still lack some of the flair of bigger-name releases (more animation in bosses would be the single biggest improvement) the vision of the game is successfully executed, with the story of the invasion of the alien planet and the journey to its core being successfully communicated by the backgrounds and enemies alone. This kind of care and attention to detail is one of the things that makes games like this so great to discover.

The last game in the Zeno SHMUP trilogy from Team Grybanser Fox, and one that puts a twist on what may have been expected based on their previous works. Zenodeath changes things up by having traditional SHMUP stages followed by ground/runner stages similar to something like in Outzone or Fixeight but with more scope and actual walls, platforms, bridges, and blockades. The SHMUP stages and ground stages alternate so you have to become comfortable with both styles of play to excel, you do have some options you can tweak that may help make the ground stages more manageable if they feel too alienating so be sure to pay attention to the options given to you in the pause/options menu. This game focuses on three playable characters this time around each with their own strengths and weaknesses on ground and in the air, so you'll probably have to make a few runs at it all before you figure out what suits you best. Continues are awarded based on how well you play in your current run, which is typical affair for these games so don't get discouraged if you don't nail everything the first time as it is generous for your first few continues before their costs start to ramp up. Normal and Expert difficulties are fixed selections before the game starts, Expert is definitely the 1cc chaser's mode if they want to go for the maximum glory the game can offer. Either way, for those who play through this game be sure to check out the ending credits and don't skip them to get the most out of reaching the end of this series.