Geometry Wars: Galaxies
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Players can also ops to use their Classic controller and its studded thumbsticks, which may prove helpful because it will always shoot at a 45° angle. It also has a retro feel to it. Still, the Wiimote allows for full 360° targeting, which the classic controller can do, but the studded thumbsticks make aiming between the studs difficult, and more like playing Everyday Shooter. After using both, it’s hard to continue using the standard thumbstick layout.

Similar situations are unlikely to phase experience Geo-Wars players...


Galaxies brings a few significantly gameplay changes that make it very different from what we’ve grown used to. First is the addition of a helper drone, which functions with one of eight characteristics; offensive, defensive, sniper, etc. These traits all start out so weak that they are worthless, but each world completed earns experience for the selected trait. When fully powered, they are a serious force to be reckoned with. For example, once “Attack” is maximized, the player will have roughly double the firepower whenever shooting.

Familiar enemies may feel like less of a threat, but that feeling should subside shortly.


Second and more importantly is the multiplier. Before, the multiplier was based around how many slain enemies were done away with, but now nearly all foes release something called Geoms. These Geoms function as points to purchase access to new worlds and solar systems, as well as new drone traits. Each also adds to the multiplier, making it possible to earn millions of points, if not hundreds of millions. With a possible 150x multiplier limit, gaining points may seem easier, but don’t be fooled. All it means is that maps require more points to earn.

Though even this flaw has its part to play. Knowing that the edges are dangerous means making strategies based on each specific level, not only by how enemies enter the playing field or what the conditions of battle are, but also the shape of the map itself. With enough imagination and testing, nearly everything can be used to your advantage, including tiny crevices and corners.

Additionally Geometry Wars Retro Evolved is included with both single and multiplayer modes, meaning a friend can start any game with you, sharing your points, bombs and lives or on their own. Cooperative play punishes those with weaker friends by sharing lives and bombs, and rewards those who can choose more wisely. Versus mode is just the same, except nothing is shared and selfishness is the name of the game. Take all the kills, and you take all the points. But if you drop out first, that means your opponent keeps going and can take their sweet time.

Some, however, will always call for high-pitched screaming. Bombs away!

Cooperative mode is also available in standard Galaxies, though it’s for a set solar system. Ten planets are available, so no giving someone a helping hand with their single player campaign. Playing with someone who’s on their DS version is also possible, and seven levels from the campaign are set just for that.

Taking the incredibly strong gameplay of Geometry Wars and tweaking it slightly for the system is done excellently. The gameplay is intense, and most will find it difficult to sit for too long before just being unable to play any longer, but that’s expected. With so many levels to play through and so many high scores to set, Galaxies is one of the few mini-games for the Wii that doesn’t get old fast and is exciting to play alone, something monumental for the console named specifically to play games with a friend.



Highs
Top-notch gameplay, exciting multiplayer, huge single player campaign.

Lows
Gut-wrenching spawn-fragging.

Final Verdict
An excellent casual shooter that remains intense. It isn't good for hours at a time but is damned fun for months to come.

90%

Dec 31, 2007

Review by James Pikover.

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