2D Shoot-em-up masterpiece

I have a version of this game for the Japanese PS2 and while a bit downsized for the iPad, it still delivers and then some. Some might gripe about the price, but its worth it to have a Cave gem so accessible on the iTunes store as that PS2 game was easily close to $100 a few years ago to import from Japan.

Like most shooters, you can run through the whole game in no time, but if you are serious about these kinds of games, that really is not the point here. The controls work flawlessly and are actually more forgiving than a game pad on a console. I believe this is because you have a very fair sized hitbox around your ship, but not too big to make it too easy. A balanced approach to tablet gaming. Graphics and gameplay are top notch. I actually prefer more subdued games like Raiden or Ikaruga to the whole "bullet hell" type, but this game is so flawless and smooth that it is the genius of how it is executed that really shines through and keeps you playing long after your initial completion. I was happy to see this featured in May 2012 on the app stores Hardcore Games feature. This certainly is hardcore and a nice counterbalance to more mainstream fare like Angry Birds and the like.

Bottom line, if you enjoy 2D shumups, this purchase is a no brainier. If you have read this far, do the genre a favor a support these quality shooters. Hopefully we will see other Cave goodies for iOS devices like Ibara in the future.

Shoegazer about ESPGALUDA II HD