Unique games can endure countless reinterpretations without losing their appeal. One such classic is Asteroids, a renowned space shooter that has inspired a myriad of variations like Geometry Wars and Hyper Meteor. Even the most derivative adaptations still manage to captivate. The sheer thrill of annihilating alien spacecraft is undeniably satisfying.
In a similar vein, my experience with Galactic Glitch, now available in early access on Steam, evokes that familiar excitement. While it adopts the top-down space shooter format, the game offers a blend of retro aesthetics and modern action-roguelike elements. Despite its initial simplicity, Galactic Glitch delivers the dependable dose of retro gameplay that I find immensely enjoyable.
The game’s premise is straightforward – navigate a miniature spaceship through interconnected circular arenas filled with foes to defeat and occasional rewards in the form of upgrades, currency orbs, and permanent abilities akin to Dead Cells. The objective is to progress through various biomes, acquiring perks to enhance your ship between runs.
The core gameplay mechanics are reminiscent of classic space shooters, allowing full 360-degree movement while engaging enemies with an array of weapons. However, Galactic Glitch introduces a unique twist by enabling players to pick up small enemies or meteors and hurl them at adversaries. Each weapon features a potent secondary function, enhancing the combat depth. Upgrade options further diversify your arsenal, such as an ability to launch missiles while evading or dealing additional damage from a specific angle.
One subtle yet engaging aspect is the inclusion of friendly fire among enemies, adding a strategic element to combat. By maneuvering adeptly, players can incite foes to inadvertently harm each other, requiring finesse and tactical prowess. Just like in Asteroids, mastering this sci-fi dance in Galactic Glitch offers a plethora of strategic possibilities.
While the game may feel somewhat limited in its early access stage, with repetitive circular zones and combat mechanics, it shows promise through its progression systems. Despite a slight imbalance in currency rewards versus item costs, the variety of weapons and upgrades introduces strategic depth. With some refinement, Galactic Glitch could evolve into a compelling roguelike experience, especially for fans of classic space shooters.
For those seeking a nostalgic yet innovative gaming experience, Galactic Glitch offers a fresh take on the genre in its early access phase on Steam.
