GOTD – Xexyz
Xexyz – Action (NES)
Hudson Soft
Although cursed with a name that makes no sense and is difficult (if it’s even possible) to pronounce, Xexyz is among the more underappreciated games out there.
The plot is vague and, honestly, sort of odd. Basically, it boils down to the classic rescue-princess-from-baddies formula. You’re a guy in some really cool-looking armor, and you get to fight through multiple levels searching for her and liberating castles along the way. Should sound sort of familiar.
However, this game has several elements that make it different from – and better than – most action NES games. Although it’s mostly a platformer (Adventure Island, Rygar, etc), it contains some puzzle elements and a lot of hidden areas. In addition, there are many shops where you can buy a large variety of optional equipment. This makes for some variety to shake up the tedium of what could otherwise be a simple game.
This game is fun because it has that main ingredient that makes a good action game – it is easy to learn, but it can be very difficult to master. Controls are precise, most enemies are predictable – it’s up to the player to do their best. And although the game is difficult, it’s not so difficult as to seem impossible.
In addition, there are vehicle sequences that make for a different style of gameplay as well, so the game is half side-scrolling platformer, half shooter. These, too, are spaced out well enough that the game has more variety than usual.
I highly recommend this game for any fan of action games. It’s a good mix of action and exploring, and an excellent example of what an action game can be.
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