Introduction

Welcome to the cosmic aquarium that is Dariusburst Another Chronicle EX+. This horizontal scrolling shooter, which almost sounds like a fancy dish from an alien restaurant, presents players with an aquatic themed adventure where robotic fish enemies feast on your patience and skills. If you've ever wanted to pilot a spaceship shaped like a fish while dodging enemy fire and feeling like the coolest cat in a really intricate meat grinder, then hop aboard this ride.

Gameplay

Gameplay takes the traditional Darius formula and runs with it like a fish out of water - quite literally! The essence of Darius is all present: you'll be blasting through beautifully crafted levels, choosing various branching paths that lead to different bosses. There's something wonderfully reminiscent about the days when shooters were made with simple graphics and exceptionally complex mechanics, and Darius does not disappoint in that department. You can select from a fish-load of ships (that's right, I said it) and upgrade your firepower to turn your standard laser blasts into something resembling a fireworks show on steroids. One of the main attractions, apart from the magnificent aquatic enemies, is the Burst System. It's a powerful weapon that can juice up your ship's capabilities faster than you can say 'I don't understand the plot.' By tapping and holding the fire button, you can unleash destructive bursts in any direction - it's like giving your ship a water jetpack. Strategic shooting becomes essential because, believe me, firing aimlessly will only serve as a buffet for your foes. Power-ups vary by type: there's good ol' fashioned Missile, the more sophisticated Laser, and the all-encompassing Wave Shot. Each has its unique strengths, ensuring that you'll experiment more than a mad scientist in a lab. Just when you thought it couldn't get more ridiculous, you have bosses who also can command the Burst System, resulting in beam duels that make traditional duels seem like an argument over the last slice of pizza at a party. In this game, you will scour through zones, each packed with five stages unless you decide to take a shortcut on the highway of techno fish. So expect to upgrade, dodge, and dance like a fish trying to avoid the net in its former home - because things will get spicy!

Graphics

Graphically, Dariusburst Another Chronicle EX+ wears its fishy style proudly. The visuals swim in a colorful sea, rendered beautifully even on the Switch. The art department really outdid themselves creating a blend of retro aesthetic intertwined with bright, vibrant colors reminiscent of a 90s acid trip - if that's a thing. Expect sleek spaceship designs, gorgeous backgrounds that might make you forget that you're also trying to survive a seemingly endless wave of metal fish from outer space. This is truly a visual treat for those who appreciate the artistry of pixelated explosions and cosmic wonder. The interface is intuitive, allowing for focus on the fast-paced action instead of scratching your head at confusing menus. The special effects enhance the experience more than a garnish atop a gourmet meal, giving you that satisfying feeling of obliteration every time you focus your fire on an unsuspecting enemy. So get ready to feast your eyes on this electronic fish-fry!

Conclusion

In summary, Dariusburst Another Chronicle EX+ is one of those shooter games that isn't just about shooting, but about experiencing an aquatic-themed journey that is both visually and mechanically engaging. Whether you're a seasoned veteran of the Darius series or you're just starting your journey into the world of scrolling shooters, this game offers a great balance of nostalgia and challenge that might just hook you in. It's like riding a wave of nostalgia mixed with an electric eel - shocking, engaging, and sometimes a bit unpredictable. If you're looking for something to add flavor to your Switch library and you don't mind dodging lasers while piloting fish-like spaceships, then dive into Dariusburst. Just be prepared, because you might get hooked!

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