Stardust Galaxy Warriors: Stellar Climax (2015)

With many customization options and a simple, accessible gameplay, this work may not offer a very in-depth experience and it can get rather confusing at times with too many things happening on the screen at the same time but fans of shoot'em-ups who enjoy a simple, action-packed game will have enough reasons to spend some time around it.

Stardust Galaxy Warriors: Stellar Climax is a great shoot 'em up. It combines a classic 2D horizontal development with certain elements from other genres such as rpg or brawler. Recommended for single player or up to four in local cooperative, where the game really shines, and for any type of audience, from novices to experts, thanks to its practically total configuration of playable parameters. A good way to get into this very niche genre.

Granted, the Switch certainly isn't short of shooters (or even decent shooters, for that matter), but Stardust Galaxy Warriors: Stellar Climax nevertheless is worth a look; it's an incredibly fun and action-packed game that you can enjoy with up to three friends and boasts plenty of options that can be tweaked to make the experience as easy or challenging as you'd like. Throw in some engaging extra modes, great presentation and a healthy dose of self-aware humour and you've got a package that will keep you entertained for quite some time. Fans of the genre should definitely check this one out.

To think that when this title snuck onto the eShop I almost missed it...

I played 4 hours for first playthrough with Blue Falcon, then tried New Game+ with Amber Fox. After trying out the various modes, I spent a total of 6 hours with the game. Frankly, I can see why William enjoyed Stardust Galaxy Warriors so much. Stellar Climax took an already great experience and made it tighter, more challenging and polished, even though the latter part of the game does start to become a bit bullet hell. It’s a fun little shmup that I would recommend to any fan of the genre, both old and new. There’s enough variety to keep things interesting and to allow those unschooled to have a chance. For $13.99, it’s a great bargain. After playing it, I look forward to seeing what else Dreamloop Games has up their sleeves!