As one of the few shmups currently available on the Nintendo 3DS system, Nano Assault by Majesco places you in the pilot seat of a microscopic Nanite ship that must eradicate a deadly virus that threatens the very fabric of humanity.
Nano Assault’s gameplay consists of seven uniquely shaped cell clusters that are divided into smaller, alien infested cells. Each cell is inhabited by a number of alien viruses that must be destroyed. Additionally, three DNA sequences must be collected to unlock new areas. It is possible to view a map of the current cell by pressing the directional pad.
The first thing you will notice while playing NA is how simple the combat is. While engaging the viruses, it is possible to adjust your firepower by pressing the left shoulder button. This allows your Nanite ship to fire bullets in different angles and pattens while traversing the Super Mario Galaxy-style environments. Plus, you can fire in all four directions by pressing the B, A, Y and X buttons respectively.
While some levels use impressive 3D wrapping, others are basic on-rail excursions a la’ Star Fox, sending you through tunnels infested with giant worms and spike pillars that pierce the walls, creating instant barriers that require quick reflexes to avoid.
The bosses truly highlight the experience, as they are massive, mutated hulks that attack with unpredictable precision. Strange worms with tentacles and mite-like giants are just a fraction of the bosses available, and there are many during the course of gameplay. And thanks to the Nintendo 3DS’ capabilities, they look fantastic in 3D.
Nano Assault, while a good shooter, isn’t without its faults. The on-rail segments make it very difficult to dodge incoming objects. What may seem like an opening to one side in the environment is actually a space too small to pass through, causing your Nanite ship to crash. The 3D perspective creates this illusion and it’s difficult to determine whether the 3DS or the game is at fault.
In addition to story mode, the game also includes an Arcade and Boss Rush mode. Arcade mode has you racking up a high score and ranking against friends online, while Boss Rush Mode pits you against every boss from Story Mode. Both modes award the player with Play Coins to spend in the Nano Shop. The shop allows you to purchase songs for the jukebox and items for the Nanopedia (an encyclopedia of sorts).
As far as shooters are concerned, Nano Assault happens to be a worthy addition to the Nintendo 3DS’ game library. While the 3D perspective can be an issue during the on-rail segments, it is forgivable given the quality of this title. Gamers looking for a new experience with eye-popping 3D graphics and challenging gameplay should look no further than Nano Assault.
Mike Pittaro
Platform: Nintendo 3DS
Developer: Majesco
Publisher: Majesco
ESRB: E 10+ (Everyone 10+)
Price: $19.99
| Review Score | |
|---|---|
| Graphics |  |
| Incredible Super Mario Galaxy-style environments, but in true 3D. | |
| Sound |  |
| Loud explosions, strange alien sound effects, and good music enhance the experience. | |
| Gameplay | |
| Challenging and fun. | |
| Overall | |
|---|---|
| Nano Assault is one of the best shooters available on Nintendo 3DS. | |
#1
Hey, nice review! That game looks pretty awesome.