Game – Nano Assault Neo

Developer/Publisher – Shin’en/Shin’en Multimedia

Version – Wii U eShop

Price – $9.99

Obtained – Review Copy courtesy of Shin’en Multimedia

Nano Assault Neo is a “twin-stick style shoot ‘em up game” in which players take control of a microscopic ship tasked with stopping the deadly Nanostray virus from spreading in the nano cosmos.  So what does all that mean? It means you’ll be blasting away enemies from all directions in every action packed level as you traverse these microscopic cell clusters in any direction you please.  Just as you could run around a planet in Super Mario Galaxy, you can fly around each cell in the same manner.  There are 16 levels to complete with 4 bosses to battle and defeat.  From the start, only the first cluster Epsilon is unlocked.  In order to progress to the next cluster, you must complete each level and defeat the boss of that cluster.  Throughout each level you will be dodging enemy fire in every direction, trying to destroy said enemies and gathering power-ups and credits.  The credits can be used in the Upgrade Store at the end of each level.  Now what’s a shoot ‘em up without weapons, weapons, and more weapons? So let’s talk about the weapons and upgrades you’ll be using.  You are able to have up to four satellites and three subweapons.  The Upgrade Store is where you are able to spend your accrued credits to purchase subweapons, additional satellites to start with, shields, extra lives and more.  During each level you can also attempt to obtain letters (B-O-N-U-S) which will give you access to an incredibly fast-paced bonus level.  In these bonus levels you have the opportunity to earn extra credits to spend in the Upgrade store.  The only downside with Nano Assault Neo is the length.  Thankfully, the inclusion of Online leaderboards and Friend rankings keeps you coming back for more in hopes to earn those infamous ‘bragging rights.’

Controlling your ship is incredibly simple and the ship’s movements are smooth and fast.  While you’re playing you can use the touch screen to adjust and reposition your satellites so that you are better protected against the onslaught of viruses and bacteria that attack you.  I found this use of the touchscreen to be the absolute best.  You can also play the entire game on the Gamepad and it looks and plays just as great here too.  You will be controlling your ship using the L stick while using the R stick to direct your continuous stream of fire.  The controls are simple and easy to use.

These are some of the best visuals I have seen, it really comes down to the detail and the lighting and they do not disappoint.  I remember reviewing the original on the 3DS and being very impressed by the visuals.  Shin’en certainly knows what they’re doing with the Nintendo hardware and I’m glad to see such a great game on the eShop.  I can not say enough how impressed I am with the visuals and especially the lighting.  I remember reading the IGN review and Lucas Thomas stated that Nano Assault Neo is ‘shiny’ and I must agree.  Everything has a sheen to it and looks amazing.  The audio tracks are quite catchy and just might have you tapping your foot or bobbing your head as you take in the techno beats coming out of your speakers.  What else can I say – I am impressed.