Introduction

Welcome back to the late '80s, where the Mortal Kombat franchise hasn't even been conceived, and hair had layers so thick, it could probably block a laser beam. Among the many gaming gems that emerged from this era was Formation Armed F, a vertically scrolling shooter that, after decades of nostalgia, has finally arrived on the Nintendo Switch. Prepare for an experience filled with explosions, questionable enemy designs, and a good dose of 'what was that,' as we dive in!

Gameplay

The gameplay involves controlling a spacecraft, creatively named Vowger, while navigating through extraterrestrial baddies. You shoot, you dodge, and occasionally wonder why you got out of bed. The game offers a variety of formations to switch up your shooting style, which is positively wild. Anyone who thinks 'variety' only applies to breakfast cereal should reconsider. Various power-ups litter the battlefield, ensuring your ship goes from a mere peashooter to a veritable death machine faster than you can say 'Why am I playing this instead of a modern title?' The bosses will test your patience, although after a few rounds, you'll likely have a new appreciation for the term 'bullet hell.'

Graphics

Let's talk graphics: think of them as if a kid was given a box of crayons and let loose in space. The level designs boast a bright and whimsical style but might also prompt you to question your own eyesight. Remember those blocky visuals from the old arcade days? They're back, and they’re proud of it. Yet, there's a strange charm in all that pixelation. It could convince you that you’re experiencing 'retro chic.' Will you be blown away by the graphics? Probably not—but you might get a chuckle or two from the vivid colors and odd shapes that represent enemies.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Formation Armed F serves up nostalgic doses of chaotic gameplay, solid mechanics, and charmingly dated graphics. The game may have players shooting through memories, while simultaneously battling the urge to wonder if they should be playing a more recent title. But for those who appreciate a slice of video game history without needing a time machine, it's worth giving your thumbs a workout. Would I recommend it? Only if you're ready to beat up those nostalgic vibes and embrace the absurdity of battling aliens with a ship that has more formations than a ballet troupe. Overall, it’s a solid throwback experience worth checking out—wearing protective gear and with a good sense of humor, of course. Score: 7/10 for risking intergalactic incidents and endless nostalgia!

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