The Shikigami No Shiro series of Shoot ‘Em Ups (or SHUMPs) take a slightly different approach than the standard theme of a single spaceship or fighter jet versus the world. Replacing your ship is a flying person, complete with bullets and bombs—presumably psychic or supernatural in nature. While this could easily enter the realm of parody—like many in the “Cute ‘Em Up” genre, Shikigami avoids this by striking a darker tone, reminding me of the Anime and Manga series, X. I had the chance to play the first game of the series in an arcade, and while I credit fed my way through, I really enjoyed the fresh take on the subject.
I then tracked down the third game—first for the Wii and later for the 360 (import only). While the graphics and sound lack the dash of some of the better Shooters available today, the game play is top notch. In the manic “bullet hell” tradition, the “hit box” on your character is quite small and avoiding the patterns of bullets is half of the game. There are ten characters to choose from, each with different bullet patterns and special attacks. I had the best luck with Kohtaro Kuga and Mihee Kim, but you may find different characters are better suited your style of play.
I am by no means an expert player, but I had fun learning how to play the game. By the time I unlocked free-play mode, I was reasonably good at staying alive.
Bottom line, Shikigami No Shiro III is an excellent manic shooter to learn the basics of the genre.
2011 ben langberg, all rights reserved.