Xeodrifter launched last year to very positive reviews and has finally made its way to consoles with the new release. Gamers looking to relive some retro-style gameplay while making their way across variously detailed planets to defeat uniquely entertaining bosses will love everything that Xeodrifter has to offer.
Xeodrifter allows gamers to venture through the dark voids of space as they step into the role of a galaxy traveling nomad. In Xeodrifter players are tasked with rebuilding their ship in order to safely return home while exploring four planets where they will unlock new abilities to further their adventure. Xeodrifter manages to blend modern day gameplay elements that have been specifically recrafted for PlayStation controls to deliver a fun console experience for new and diehard fans alike.
Xeodrifter's gameplay is reminiscent of Metroid and requires a little bit of the old school trial and error format in order to proceed. You basically try out something and if it doesn't work then you move onto the next thing until you eventually get where you need to be. Moving across the various planets can be a tad bit challenging since you never know what to expect when it comes to level difficulty and enemy forces in your way. But that is a lot of the game's attraction, and old-school players will get a kick out of the mysterious journey ahead.
As players control the tiny astronaut in Xeodrifter while trying to find a replacement warp engine, you quickly discover all of the unique gameplay elements that the title has to offer. For example, players have the ability to jump into a parallel plane in a fantastic platforming twist, that allows you to take on obstacles that lie in front of you and then quickly return to the foreground to continue your journey. The fantastic way in which the game has been set up helps keep you intrigued throughout the entire adventure while upgrading your weapons to blast your way through any dangerous perils that lie ahead. While you can find gun points to upgrade your weapon lying all around the open world, the exploration enabling abilities (six total) can only be gathered from boss fights.
In the end, Xeodrifter is a charming title that combines old-school platforming fun with a touch of modern day gameplay. However, what the title lacks in terms of enemy variety it makes up for with intriguing weapon experimentation. If you have been looking for a fun Metroid style title on modern day consoles then look no further with Xeodrifter. To learn more, visit the official Xeodrifter website.
Reviewed for PS4