Nex Machina is a high-octane, sci-fi action game that brings the spirit of classic arcade titles into the modern era. Developed by Housemarque, the Finnish studio known for its fast-paced shooter Returnal, Nex Machina serves as a spiritual successor to the legendary 1982 arcade game Robotron 2084. With a release date of June 19, 2017, the game is available on PC and PlayStation 4, offering fans of retro-style gameplay a chance to experience a modernized take on the genre. Praised for its challenging and engaging mechanics, Nex Machina holds a strong Metacritic score of 89.00, reflecting its appeal to both longtime arcade enthusiasts and newcomers to the genre.
Genre and Gameplay Mechanics
As an indie action title, Nex Machina delivers a high-octane experience centered around intense combat and reflex-based gameplay. Players take control of a lone warrior in a top-down perspective, navigating through six distinct worlds, each composed of 15 levels. The game’s structure is designed to test the player’s skills, with each world ending in a challenging boss battle. This structure ensures that players are constantly engaged, with each level offering a unique set of obstacles and enemies.
The core mechanic of Nex Machina revolves around defeating waves of robotic enemies while also optionally rescuing scattered humans. This dual objective adds a layer of strategy and urgency, as players must balance their focus between survival and saving civilians. The game emphasizes speed, flow, and precise timing, allowing players to chain attacks into powerful combo sequences. This focus on rhythm and execution makes Nex Machina a thrilling experience for fans of arcade action.
Combat System and Modes
The protagonist is equipped with a variety of weapons, including a standard gun that can be upgraded through power-ups to increase its range and spread. Additional weapons, such as a sword and an energy beam, are also available, allowing for diverse combat styles. The game’s fast-paced action encourages players to experiment with different approaches, whether it be aggressive offense or strategic defense.
Nex Machina also features a variety of gameplay modes, including a solo campaign and a multiplayer mode that allows for two-player co-op. This flexibility ensures that the game can be enjoyed in different ways, catering to both single-player enthusiasts and those who prefer team-based action. The game’s difficulty is well-balanced, offering a rewarding challenge without being overly punishing.
Story and Setting
The game is set in a dystopian future where robotic enemies have overrun the Earth, and the player must fight to restore balance. Each of the six worlds presents a different environment, from industrial wastelands to neon-lit cities, providing a visually rich backdrop for the action. The story is minimalistic, focusing more on the gameplay experience than on deep narrative elements, which aligns with the game’s arcade-inspired roots.
While the plot may not be the main attraction, the setting and aesthetic design are crucial to the game’s identity. The retro-futuristic visuals and soundtrack pay homage to classic arcade games while maintaining a fresh, modern feel. This blend of nostalgia and innovation is one of Nex Machina’s defining characteristics.
Who It Appeals To
Nex Machina is ideal for players who enjoy fast-paced, reflex-driven action games with a retro twist. Its challenging difficulty and arcade-style gameplay will appeal to fans of classics like Robotron 2084 and Contra, while its modern presentation and accessibility make it a solid choice for newcomers to the genre. The game’s blend of strategy, combat, and co-op play ensures that it has something to offer for a wide range of players.
