SUPER STARDUST DELTA

Darkspineslayer:

Platform: Playstation Vita

Ah, the dual stick shooter. A score driven genre that’s found a new home on downloadable services, but not handhelds. That is, until now. Where the DS and PSP simply lacked the proper inputs to make these games run smooth, this premier PSV downloadable outing completely justifies your new purchase.

The gameplay in this entry of stardust simplifies itself out of design choices over limitation. Removing one of the weapons from Super Stardust HD and Super Stardust Portable leaves players with fire and ice to fling and two distinct enemy and obstacle types, each weak to a specific weapon and encouraging a rapid back and forth between the two in a frantic bid to survive the sometimes overwhelming odds.

Purists can stick to classic button only inputs, but the new Delta option makes use of the motion and touch options of the Vita for some dazzling specials that can make mincemeat out of the opposition.

Tapping the touchscreen launches out a flurry of missiles that destroy all unfortunate enough to be in their path, while players can use the back touch pad to summon a black hole that pulls in all asteroids within its huge range.

The attacks are stunning to watch and satisfying to unleash, but the black hole in particular can be triggered all to easily by a simply slip of the finger, leaving you more often than not stuck in a bombardment of asteroid chunks unexpectedly.

Controls are otherwise as tight as you would find on a home console, allowing for action that would have been overwhelming with any older input on a handheld. Basic enough to quickly learn and master, it won’t take long to see all their is to see, and unlock the mostly passable mini games.

Music punctuates the frantic moment to moment gameplay with futuristic beats and techno. The most noticeable aspect must be the visuals however, highlighting the vibrant 5″ screen with gorgeous 3D models and exploding with color and detail that is completely mind-blowing on a portable.

At $10, you would have to be nuts to pass up such a great title that uses your new Vita in sophisticated and interesting ways, without being hamfisted or forced. This downloadable outing is the perfect complement to any major title you decided to purchase with your new system and a great showpiece to friends.