Earthion

Last updated: 2025-08-02

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Summary
  • Exceptional retro-inspired shmup quality
  • Outstanding music and soundtrack
  • Well-balanced difficulty and varied stages
  • Visibility issues impact gameplay
  • Audio quality and mixing issues
  • Dominant 3-way weapon
Earthion header

Categories

Side-scrolling ShooterArcadeHigh Score ChasingLinear ProgressionWeapon CustomizationCharacter Progression

Emotions

Satisfaction46%Excitement17%Amazement11%Admiration9%Frustration7%
Reviews
(sample size)
42
Helpful reviews
62%
Unhelpful reviews
38%
Protest reviews
0%
Positive points
180
Negative points
21
Gameplay points
16
Perf. points
2
Rec. points
14
Misc points
12
Point
Exceptional Overall Game Quality
Description
Players overwhelmingly praise the game's overall quality, presentation, and technical execution, highlighting its visual appeal, engaging gameplay, and high production value. Many consider it a masterpiece and a top-tier game.
Importance
100%
Excellent Retro-Inspired Shmup
Description
The game is highly praised as an excellent shoot 'em up (shmup) that successfully captures and elevates the spirit of classic 16-bit titles, particularly those from the Mega Drive/Genesis era. It's seen as a love letter to the genre, blending nostalgia with modern polish.
Importance
91%
Outstanding Music and Soundtrack
Description
The game's soundtrack is consistently lauded as amazing, incredible, and spectacular, with special recognition given to Yuzo Koshiro's composition. Players feel the music significantly enhances the game experience and evokes classic 16-bit era sounds.
Importance
88%
Well-Balanced Difficulty
Description
The game's difficulty is described as well-balanced and manageable, offering a reasonable challenge without being overly punishing. Players appreciate the appropriate difficulty curve and the ability to clear normal mode with persistence.
Importance
64%
Well-Designed, Varied Stages
Description
Stages are well-designed and unique, preventing boredom and encouraging replayability. Each phase feels distinct, contributing to an ideal game duration.
Importance
30%
Extensive Customization Options
Description
The game offers extensive and complete settings options, particularly for video and visual customization on the PC version. This allows players to tailor their experience.
Importance
27%
Effective Regenerative Shield System
Description
The shield system is highlighted as a well-balanced and forgiving mechanic. Its regenerative nature and ability to withstand multiple hits make accidental damage less punishing, rewarding skillful dodging.
Importance
26%
High-Quality Sound and Animation
Description
The game's sound effects are described as awesome, well-done, and punchy, contributing to a lovingly crafted audio design. The animations are also noted as jaw-dropping.
Importance
25%
Satisfying Firepower and Upgrades
Description
The game's firepower and weapon upgrade systems are well-implemented, providing adequate and strong offensive capabilities. Players note that bosses can be quickly defeated by targeting their weak points.
Importance
25%
Strategic Power-Up Systems
Description
The A-pod and capsule collection systems allow for strategic progression and post-clear power-ups, adding depth to the gameplay.
Importance
12%
CRT Support and Aspect Ratio
Description
The game supports native display on CRT monitors and maintains a 4:3 aspect ratio, catering to retro enthusiasts.
Importance
11%
Stunning Presentation Effects
Description
The game's presentation effects, including the ending and certain screens, are incredibly cool and surprisingly stunning for a game with a Mega Drive aesthetic.
Importance
11%
Modern Polish on Classic Design
Description
The game successfully elevates classic genre elements with modern polish and design, keeping the experience fresh while honoring its roots.
Importance
10%