go play mars matrix
I never learned about this in math class
go play mars matrix
Go play Mars Matrix
Ideias boas e muita pattern divertida de desviar
I wouldn't describe Mars Matrix as an overtly 'rhythmic' shmup out there but it definitely got me thinking about the similarities between shooting games and dance. Choreography, timing, movement, patterns, the nine yards. There's no item shenanigans here, just three shot types on a single button that are activated through different types of presses: rapid for your standard shot, tapping in slow intervals for a close-range attack that deals monstrous damage, and holding the button for your defensive bomb. The act of physically timing these button hits definitely reinforces that trance-like rhythm.
Why exactly Mars Matrix was the game that triggered this realization, I'll never know, but it really puts into perspective the global appeal of shmups. Having a game where your player expectations are strict and specific, yet there's still ambiguous elements that have to be identified and mastered, all the while with room for interpretation and creative expression. And on that point, the role of good music and sound design in shmups goes without saying: What good is a game designed around these rhythmic bouts without a score that gets you in the mood? (Though in saying that, Mars Matrix's actual sound design is pretty average: Lots of shots don't have ANY sfx to telegraph them, and the music - while tonally appropriate to its era and aesthetic, - is pretty forgettable)
Oh yeah uh anyway, Mars Matrix is a pretty good shmup. Very fast paced but the pre-rendered, stiff look keeps things focused. Always fond of Takumi's decision to use charge-based bombs instead of stock-based. It gets hard REAL fucking quick, spiking immediately once you get to the stage 2 boss. Would be very cool if that eventual Capcom Arcade Stadium DLC adds this game in - though it's also the kind of game that becomes hell with any added delay unless you're a god.
Why exactly Mars Matrix was the game that triggered this realization, I'll never know, but it really puts into perspective the global appeal of shmups. Having a game where your player expectations are strict and specific, yet there's still ambiguous elements that have to be identified and mastered, all the while with room for interpretation and creative expression. And on that point, the role of good music and sound design in shmups goes without saying: What good is a game designed around these rhythmic bouts without a score that gets you in the mood? (Though in saying that, Mars Matrix's actual sound design is pretty average: Lots of shots don't have ANY sfx to telegraph them, and the music - while tonally appropriate to its era and aesthetic, - is pretty forgettable)
Oh yeah uh anyway, Mars Matrix is a pretty good shmup. Very fast paced but the pre-rendered, stiff look keeps things focused. Always fond of Takumi's decision to use charge-based bombs instead of stock-based. It gets hard REAL fucking quick, spiking immediately once you get to the stage 2 boss. Would be very cool if that eventual Capcom Arcade Stadium DLC adds this game in - though it's also the kind of game that becomes hell with any added delay unless you're a god.