Developer: Medius, Starfish.SD
Publisher: ININ Games
Genre: Shmup
Price: $24.99
Released: Jan 23rd, 2024
Where to buy: Switch
The Legend of Steel Empire is officially live on the Switch as of today, January 23rd, 2024. Buckle up, pilot, because it’s time to dive into a review of this dieselpunk shoot-’em-up!
Gearing Up for Takeoff:
Prepare to blast into a breathtaking world of riveted steel, billowing smokestacks, and fantastical airships! The Legend of Steel Empire has finally launched on the Switch, inviting players to soar through a dieselpunk sky as the brave pilot of the versatile Striker aircraft. Buckle up, for this review dives deep into the game’s stunning visuals, innovative mechanics, and classic shoot-’em-up thrills, alongside its minor turbulence.
Visual Poetry in Metal and Steam:
From the moment you launch into the opening stage, The Legend of Steel Empire stuns with its visual splendor. Each level is a meticulously crafted tableau of Victorian-era machinery fused with fantastical elements. Towering industrial complexes adorned with intricate gears, sprawling cloud cities illuminated by glowing tubes, and colossal fortresses piercing the heavens – every backdrop is a visual feast. The HD visuals on the Switch do justice to this breathtaking artistry, delivering smooth animations and detailed environments that bring the world to life.
Dual Wings of Destruction:
You take control of the Striker, a nimble aircraft that transforms the classic shoot-’em-up formula with a unique twist. You can switch between forward and backward firing modes, adapting your attack strategy to various enemies and situations. Forward mode unleashes focused firepower for precision strikes, while backward mode blankets the screen in a hail of bullets for overwhelming area denial. This mechanic adds a layer of tactical depth, demanding quick thinking and adaptability to overcome the diverse aerial threats.
Beyond Bullets: A Dance of Tactics and Power
The Legend of Steel Empire’s combat goes beyond simply dodging bullets and spraying fire. Your arsenal expands with devastating lightning bombs that clear the skies and strategic cover mechanics that offer temporary respite from enemy barrages. The level design further elevates the gameplay with branching paths, hidden secrets, and epic boss battles that test your piloting skills to the limit. The power-up system adds another layer of intrigue, offering meaningful choices that can significantly impact your playstyle and approach to each challenge.
Soaring Highs and Minor Turbulence:
While The Legend of Steel Empire soars through the skies of excellence, it encounters some minor turbulence along the way. The story, though setting the stage for the conflict between the oppressed Republic of Silverhead and the tyrannical Motorhead Empire, can feel underdeveloped at times. Additionally, the difficulty curve might be a bit steep for newcomers to the genre, with some later stages demanding near-flawless execution. However, these are mere bumps in the sky compared to the overall exhilarating experience.
Verdict: A Must-Play for Shmup Enthusiasts and Steampunk Aficionados
The Legend of Steel Empire is a triumphant return to the classic shoot-’em-up genre, infused with innovative mechanics and breathtaking visuals. Its dieselpunk world is a joy to explore, the combat is a satisfyingly frantic ballet of bullets and bombs, and the strategic depth keeps you coming back for more. While the story and difficulty might need some refinement, this is an experience that will have you grinning from ear to ear as you weave through enemy squadrons and conquer floating fortresses.
Final Score: 8.5 out of 10
So, whether you’re a seasoned shmup veteran or a curious newcomer seeking a unique aerial adventure, The Legend of Steel Empire is definitely worth your time and piloting skills. Just remember to pack your goggles, a thirst for adventure, and perhaps a steaming cup of tea and a slice of Victoria sponge cake to enjoy alongside the exhilarating dogfights and breathtaking vistas. Happy gaming, pilots!
