Decimation X3 (Review) Xbox 360

On the surface, Decimation X3 by Xona Games resembles the classic Space Invaders. Looks can be deceiving, though, and this is where the resemblance ends. The basic premise is to rack up the highest score possible while surviving wave after wave of enemies. This can be done alone or with up to 4 players.

After surviving the first 4 levels of mayhem, you are then confronted by a boss. Like the smaller enemy ships that attack in waves, the boss begins its descent across the screen as you attack. The more times the boss is struck by your bullets, the faster it moves.  The object is to destroy the boss before it reaches the bottom of the screen. This is all happening while dodging a hell storm of bullets. Whether you’re facing a wave of enemies or a boss, you have many factors involved.

Decimation X3 does more with the classic formula than first anticipated. While the first couple of stages have your spaceship exposed to enemy fire, later stages will drop power-ups that generate shields (i.e. like Space Invaders), increase fire power, offer point bonuses, grant auto firing abilities and other ship enhancements. These power-ups will also appear when an enemy spacecraft is destroyed, so they are plentiful and appear often.

As a shooter, Decimation x3 is addictive and very challenging. Each stage increases in difficulty and the bosses become more intimidating. The action speeds up considerably after stage 7 and it becomes increasingly difficult to dodge enemy fire. Even when shields are present, trying to find an opening to return fire can be a dangerous proposition.

The in-game mechanics are as simple as they can get. The analog stick and directional pad control your spaceship (so there’s a choice for gamers that may prefer one over the other for this style of game) and any button on the Xbox 360 controller can fire. This simple design keeps the fuss to a minimum and allows you to focus on the gameplay.

Graphically, Decimation X3 utilizes simple, pixel-like sprites that resemble early video games.  The particle explosions are mesmerizing and constantly fill the screen as enemies are destroyed.  These particle explosions really compensate for the limited graphics.

The music is a collection of upbeat tunes composed by group Imphenzia. Since the music matches the action, your adrenaline keeps pumping.  Nothing beats a good soundtrack.

Decimation X3 takes the classic Space Invader formula and injects a healthy dose of boss battles, ramped up difficulty, and power-ups. Even if you’re the type of gamer who would never play a shooter, this game is well worth 80 MS Points. Hardcore shmup fans need to buy this game as soon as possible. Not only is this shooter worth the price of admission, but the online leader board allows you to share your high score with the world. You can’t ask for anything better.

Mike Pittaro
Platform: Xbox 360 (Available on Xbox Live)
Developer: Xona Games
Price: 80 MS Points
File size: 4.90megs

Review Score
Graphics
While simple in design, the particle explosions are incredible.
Sound
The upbeat soundtrack keeps your adrenaline pumping.
Gameplay
It’s addictive, fun, and very challenging.

Overall
Xona Games has developed a great shooter; you can’t go wrong no matter how you chalk it up.