We’ve got more than enough good shooters – or “shmups” – to play around with right now. But there’s always room for extra, especially when you have a game that innovates. That, folks, is what EastAsiaSoft’s Schildmaid MX does.
Despite the weird name, the shooter, developed by HitP Studio, truly delivers. Not only are its general shooting tactics and presentation nicely polished, but there’s a hook. See, you can actually absorb enemy fire in some places, turning the tables on your competition for a brief period of time. Be careful, though – go too spicy on absorption (is that the word?) and you could be blown to bits. (It helps to listen for the “Danger!” callouts.)
While a bit on the pricey side compared to EastAsiaSoft’s other releases, Schildmaid earns its keep. It’s wildly addictive to play, as you attempt to get the highest score possible. And, again, I think it looks and sounds great for a wholly original “shmup,” developed with pure love in mind. Plus it has extra modes that will truly challenge your skill level – if you’re ready.
I know you’re already slammed with superb releases like R-Type Delta HD Boosted and Earthion. But make sure you save some time for Schildmaid MX. The studio definitely deserves our love here, and I’m eager to see what tactics they think of next.
Schildmaid MX Is All About the Unique Gameplay
Approach Schildmaid MX as you would a regular shooter and you may be in for mild disappointment. That’s not to say the game isn’t fun – it really is – but you miss out on the treasure beneath with its general gameplay tactic. And that’s absorbing enemy firepower.
The more you absorb, the more powerful you become. Well, to a point. The minute you hear “DANGER!”, the next hit could be your fatal blow. So, yeah, you need to bob and weave and essentially fight your way back to absorption (?) style. It’s really cool, and adds a fresh tactic to the gameplay aspect.
Schildmaid MX includes three different ships to choose from, each different from the others. I prefer the first choice, but, hey, play around and see what’s right for you. On top of that, it benefits from a plethora of bonus modes. Jaegar is a safe bet for those starting out with “shmups.” More experienced players, however, won’t hesitate to jump into Krieger and Chimera mode. Hope you enjoy a relentless assault from enemies.
With high scoring opportunities, crazy boss battles and innovative gameplay, Schildmaid MX is a welcome surprise for the “shmup” market. And it poses enough of a challenge to keep you coming back. Again, though, watch out for them “DANGER!” prompts. They’re the difference between life and death.
How Does Schildmaid MX Clean Up With Its Presentation?
I’ll be honest, Schildmaid MX took me by surprise with its presentation.
The visuals move very smoothly – at least on the Switch 2 – with non-stop 60 FPS speed. Things do get a little frantic with the explosions and such, but that’s par for the course of the genre. The menus are easy to get through and the action doesn’t let up. Plus the bosses look great. As a bonus, you can also turn on a CRT display filter, in case you really feel like being old-school.
Music-wise, Schildmaid MX also clicks. That’s because of the soundtrack provided by Ed Tremblay of Studio Mudprints, who does some of his finest work here. I do hope he continues to produce tracks like this. The sound effects – especially the “DANGER!” callouts – are also very good.
It might be a little frantic for some, but, once more, Jaeger mode will introduce you very carefully into the mix. Everyone else, enjoy the fireworks!
Schildmaid MX Is Making a House Call, You Should Answer
I was pleasantly thrilled with what I discovered from Schildmaid MX. It came out of nowhere with its creative gameplay aspect, along with a presentation that would do old-school shooters proud. Plus its online leaderboards and variety of modes will keep you entertained, even if you’re a newbie.
Maid service doesn’t get much more explosive than this. Don’t miss it.
GAMERHUB RATING: 4 (out of 5) JOYSTICKS
Thanks to EastAsiaSoft for providing us with a review code! Schildmaid MX is available now for Xbox, PlayStation,Nintendo Switch and PC/Steam!
