I’ve read many complaints that this generation of gaming is being held back. People bemoan the Xbox Series S and the indie market. Furthermore, they hate the remastered titles and the reliance on arcade classics. However, I couldn’t disagree more. I adore the current state of play and appreciate the nod to old-school games. Accordingly, when Missile Command: Recharged hit my desk, I loved it.
Developed by AdamVision Studios and SneakyBox and published by Atari, this is an arcade shooter. What’s more, this modern classic looks amazing and is filled with new challenges and complements the other titles in the Recharged range. Alongside this, it can be enjoyed solo or with another as you shoot aliens and compete for the top score.
Missile Command: Recharged is too addictive.
This series of games from Atari is getting better and better. I have to say that I’ve loved everyone that I’ve reviewed, but this is one of the best. With tough missions to complete, a fantastic arcade mode, upgradable stats, and leaderboards to top, it ticks many boxes. However, what it’s missing is a hard-hitting story. Effectively, you control three turrets that must protect each silo. Bombs, tanks, aliens, and more try to flatten your guns and your buildings. If this happens, it is game over and you must start again.
Disappointingly, you never find out why the attacks happen. Moreover, there is no validation for your retaliation. Instead, it is survival of the fittest and may the best man/woman win. This is somewhat shallow, and this remake could have easily introduced an overarching story, or at least a minor plot to follow. Thankfully, though, you get snippets of information during each mission. These bullet points act as a form of instruction, as well as issuing minor layers of depth. Yet, if you simply want mindless violence, then none of my concerns will bother you. Accordingly, you’ll enjoy the shallow, but fast-paced action as you get hooked on saving your base.
Power-ups, upgrades, and failures.
Like the rest of the Recharged series, Missile Command: Recharged ramps things up with its power-up system. Instead of focusing on boring rockets and the occasional machine gun, you get bombs, Gatling guns, shields, chain shots, and much more. This updated approach enhances the fun and makes a hectic game a little crazier.
As you complete each arcade session, you are awarded points that can be spent on key upgrades. You can improve your power, shields, reload time, and rebuild time. These minor elements are necessary to increase your survival. Consequently, the more you improve your defences, the longer you last, and the more fun you’ll have.
Sadly, your improvements don’t migrate to the mission mode. Accordingly, failure is all but assured during each tough mission. However, with the help of another player, you’ll be able to destroy each bomb and annihilate each plane, alien and destructive threat.
Missile Command: Recharged looks great.
Though this has retained much of the original charm, it has been given a modern polish. This striking neon-infused finish looks great and enhances the sci-fi theme. What’s more, the crisp lines and interesting enemies ensure that it never looks boring.
On top of this, the upbeat and aggressive soundtrack has plenty of variety. Furthermore, the sound effects are amazing as you hear bombs crashing and bullets ricocheting. Alongside this, there are piercing lasers and explosions that bring the action to life. Luckily, the cacophony of sounds wasn’t too intense as the developers got the balance just right.
Excellent controls.
With so much going on, it was hard to keep track. Fortunately, the easy-to-manage controls and the excellent button layout mitigate this issue. Thanks to the handy crosshairs and clear UI, you knew exactly where you were shooting and what was happening. Moreover, the inputs are responsive and this helps when things get tough. My only complaint, however, is the lack of a tutorial. Accordingly, the opening moments are unnecessarily confusing. Had the developers incorporated a basic guide, this issue would be resolved.
Whenever a leaderboard is incorporated into the action, you know it’ll be addictive. What’s more, playing against family and friends increases that competitive edge. On top of this, the fun but tough missions and challenging achievement list keep you going. As such, this is one arcade title that oozes longevity and replay value.
Missile Command: Recharged is a great arcade game.
If you adore arcade gaming, then look no further. Missile Command: Recharged does a great job of modernising an already much-loved experience. Consequently, I adored its updated finish, its neon palette, and the aggressive soundtrack. Moreover, the power-ups and never-ending enemies make this an explosive, yet tough nut to crack. Accordingly, I loved every minute, and I recommend you buy it here! Can you save the day? Improve your defences, shoot the bombs, and keep going.
