Andrew Newton reviews X-Out: Resurfaced…
For those of you who remember gaming on the old 8-bit and 16-bit computers, the name X-Out should immediately bring to mind many hours of shoot ‘em up fun as you guided your submarine through swathes of enemies. Now, thanks to KRITZELKRATZ 3000, Rainbow Arts, and ININ Games, a new generation of gamers can experience that same excitement with X-Out: Resurfaced.
This exciting remake of the classic side-scrolling shooter preserves the essence of the original while introducing several quality-of-life improvements, enhanced visuals and refined gameplay mechanics that make it a welcomed revival for both veterans and newcomers.
Upon going into the game, the first thing I noticed is the visual overhaul. The original game’s pixel art has been beautifully reworked with a high-definition aesthetic, featuring particle and lighting effects. Coupled with a soundtrack composed by the legendary Chris Huelsbeck that blends nostalgic chiptunes with modern synthwave beats, X-Out: Resurfaced delivers an audio-visual feast that is immersive, nostalgic and exhilarating.
Gameplay-wise, it remains incredibly faithful: players pilot a heavily armed submarine through treacherous enemy-filled waters, dodging relentless barrages while collecting power-ups to boost their firepower. However, Resurfaced brings smoother controls and improved hit detection, making combat feel more precise and rewarding. The game also adds new weapons, customisation options and difficulty modes, allowing players to match their experience to their skill level.
One of the standout additions of this revival is the co-op mode, enabling two players to team up and tackle the onslaught together. This breathes fresh energy into the game, making it a fantastic couch co-op experience. There’s also preconfigured load-outs available in the shop, making it quicker to get into the action. Moreover, an online leaderboard system adds a competitive edge, challenging players to secure high scores and prove their prowess.
While X-Out: Resurfaced excels in many areas, it isn’t without its minor flaws. Some sections may feel extremely punishing, especially for newcomers unfamiliar with the genre’s challenging nature. However, the adjustable difficulty settings do help mitigate this somewhat, ensuring that players of all skill levels can enjoy the game.
Overall, X-Out: Resurfaced is a triumphant return of a beloved classic. It successfully modernises the original while preserving its core appeal, making it a must-play for fans of retro shooters and newcomers looking for a challenging yet rewarding arcade experience.
Rating: An enjoyable challenge with a nostalgic flair deserves a 9/10.
Andrew Newton
