Bizarre Creations has no idea what it inspired when it made the hidden Project Gotham Racing game Geometry Wars.
Built on simple principles, the twin stick shooter became a cult classic, leading to the release of two sequels. And they still have grand appreciation to this day. So much, in fact, that indie devs are trying out the formula. But with new tricks, of course.
Enter Galactic Glitch. This game has plenty of shooting action to go with, but it adds an interesting twist. That twist is the “grab.” With this, you can snatch items in the environment and hurl them at enemies. You can even use the environment to your advantage, bouncing things off walls.
With lots of stages to choose from and upgrades to score, Galactic Glitch definitely scores some points. That said, the physicality can be a little better in places. It also takes longer than expected to earn some of the premium goods. But if you stick with it, you’ll find Glitch to be a welcome addition to your system. Especially if you’re a twin-stick shooter fan. (And who isn’t?)
Enter the Fray
In each stage of Galactic Glitch, you find yourself fighting through bubbled up zones. It’s up to you to clear each zone from enemies, using a variety of weapons.
The guns you’ll use within the game are pretty good, especially the later ones you unlock. But as we mentioned, the “grab” ability is something else. You can use this creatively to grab items and hurl them at others. You can even get creative and use the environment to bounce them off. Be warned, however – the further you get into the game, the harder it gets.
The controls feel pretty good, though there is something a bit “floaty” about them. That’s not to say the game is broken by any means. It just takes getting used to when it comes to precision. It’ll take a bit to master the slingshotting (that’s a word) at hand here. But once you “get it,” it’ll entice you to continue.
The power-ups are fantastic as well. However, they’re a bit more costly than we expected. That means you’ll have to run through more stages to get the really good ones. Once you get them, however, they’ll make a difference. Especially with those later stages we mention above.
Level structure is inspired as well. You break through each “bubble” as you venture into the next area. And it’s a novel way to visit the shop as well.
Really, the only thing lacking here is narrative. There’s a story, but it’s a minor one at best. I think the devs could’ve really taken off with more of a tale here. But I digress – if it’s twin stick fun you want, you’ll find it here.
Making a Good Mess
To go along with the interesting gameplay aspects, Galactic Glitch also has a pretty good presentation.
It doesn’t go above and beyond, but the physics model at play here is excellent. Using the “bubble” to your advantage is a nice touch. The enemy design is varied as well, and the weapon and explosion animation is well done. “Breaking through” into new areas also leaves a cool effect, though very brief.
As for the music, it’s high-tech and keeps up with the energy happening on-screen. Some tunes are better than others, but it still fits the bill in terms of excitement. The sound effects are pretty rip-roaring as well, so turn up your speakers for this one.
Oh, and Galactic Glitch totally works on your Steam Deck. So no fears there if that’s all you have.
Feel the Galactic Glitch
If you can overlook the high-priced items and interesting gameplay arc, Galactic Glitch offers a nice twist on the twin-stick genre. Each stage offers something new with its control aspects. And the presentation isn’t bad at all for a game that sits around $13.
If you’re a fan of the genre, Galactic Glitch is well worth a look. And, no, it doesn’t actually have glitches. (Well, maybe pre-programmed ones? That’s the point.)
GAMERHUB RATING: 3.5 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Thanks to Crunchy Leaf Games for the review code! You can get the game on Steam here, and hopefully we’ll see it on consoles soon.
