While the first game was, as mentioned, a Contra-style run ‘n’ gun game, Valfaris Mecha Therion instead turns the experience into a side scrolling shmup, with out hero entering into a giant mech and going on a journey. Right from the start, Valfaris Mecha Therion feels intense and will provide a good challenge to those seeking a good shmup. The visuals and music have undergone some changes as well, but not necessarily in an excessive way.
What stands out about Valfaris Mecha Therion is its interesting blend of mechanics , such as needing to manage a limited power meter in a constant ebb and flow to maintain the mecha’s destructive abilities. This power meter is used up by the primary ranged weapon equipped, and when it runs out, the weapon becomes much weaker and does limited damage. To replenish, you need to use a melee weapon on an enemy if you do not wish to wait for it to recover.
Speaking of the weapons, there is a good variety to be found throughout Valfaris Mecha Therion and the way enemies are handled calls to mind some of the best shmups from the 16-bit era. The need to balance different weapons and skills, while switching to melee attacks keeps you on your toes and makes Valfaris Mecha Therion a much more strategic game. Of course, upgrading the weapons is a joy as well, and can allow you some degree of experimentation.
Valfaris Mecha Therion has a grimdark narrative that is heavy metal inspired like the first game. and the unique visuals and aesthetic helps create a truly immersive environment on the world of Valfaris, reminiscent of classic album covers. The heavy metal inspired soundtrack is also amazing and the sound effects are absolutely perfect. It helps that the influences on Valfaris Mecha Therion gave a solid base for the game to be built on, with enemies straight out of some of the more out there album art mixed with H.R. Giger designs.
Valfaris: Mecha Therion feels like a shmup that has spent time in a mosh pit and had a blast the entire time. The combat and controls are solid, and the run ‘n’ gun aspect of the first game is translated well here along with the new modes added for the console release that feel at home with the experience. You feel strong and powerful, and never unfairly overwhelmed thanks to the varied arsenal and maintaining a focus on side-scrolling combat that is fair. Valfaris Mecha Therion is a game that is easy to recommend, and one any shmup fan should check out.
Disclaimer: A review key was provided
