Ex-Zodiac Review (Steam)

by Jim Smale · Published September 25, 2024 · Updated September 25, 2024

Ex-Zodiac Review, A fast-paced low-poly 3D rail shooter heavily inspired by classics of the early 90’s. Join protagonist Kyuu as she fights to free the worlds of the Sanzaru Star System, overrun by the intergalactic terrorist organization known as Zodiac.

Ex-Zodiac Review Pros:

Beautiful low poly graphics.
275.41MB download size.
Steam achievements.
Full controller support.
Graphics settings – resolution mode (retro/modern), fullscreen, v-sync, flashing effects, window size, aspect ratio, and FPS limit.
Controller settings – Invert axis and sensitivity sliders, hold fire to lock on, vibration, and you can remap the controls.
Keyboard support and you can set the mouse aiming.
Two soundtrack modes – special and original.
World map level select.
Nostalgic presentation.
Opening tutorial pop-ups as you play.
Plays like a Starfox game but the rolling level is more reminiscent of a Space Harrier.
You have a gun to shoot but you can hold it down to lock on to enemies.
Smart bomb-style missiles that do huge damage but are limited.
Big boss fights.
Hit checkpoints within a level.
Fantastic-looking locations, they add in elemental hazards like buildings falling or objects getting smashed up.
You get three lives then it’s a game over.
Health bar system and you can pick up repair boxes.
Power-ups can be collected that change your gun type or add smart bomb missiles.
You see your reticule all the time.
The thrust button is used to speed through sections, and the thrust comes back over time.
You can tilt your ship left and right to avoid enemy projectiles.

Ex-Zodiac Review Cons:

The mouse cursor stays on the screen when using the controller.
Difficult game and you have no difficulty settings.
The movement is fast and responsive but the way it’s set up had me messing up as my ship and reticule didn’t feel like they were well aligned.
Never know when you hit a checkpoint.
No accessibility options.
Only the one-game mode.

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