by Andrew Hockenbroch

Created on: December 17, 2008   Last Updated: December 22, 2008

Top scrolling arcade like action, weapon upgrades, screen-filling bosses. It appears we have a space shooter here and a pretty one at that.

GAME PLAY - 5/5

Controls for T.W.T.P.B. are mostly intuitive. The few features that are not immediately obvious are explained by the game as they are unlocked. Otherwise, game play is challenging and fast paced without being completely overwhelming. Plenty of energy recovery items drop to keep you in the game, and the game is even a little forgiving when you just cannot quite reach them. In fact it is possible, though not usually worth it, to save one for later by keeping your ship moving just fast enough to make it follow you without touching you. Finally, T.W.T.P.B. includes a gate system that allows you to jump to the beginning of any level you have started.

GRAPHICS - 5/5

T.W.T.P.B. is pretty. The graphics are detailed from the crystalline enemies to the swirl of the space debris in the background. These images alone make T.W.T.P.B. an addictive experience. Even the movement of your ship is detailed. If you move your mouse to the left you can see your ship tilting to the left.

SOUND - 5/5

The music is perfect for the game. It includes a driving rhythm and a melody that reminds one of space adventure.

CREATIVITY - 3/5

The story line is a little bit clich. Your job is to impose the Emperor's will by destroying the heretics. This story is somewhat enhanced, however, by its inclusion in everything from the game menu to the nag screens encouraging you to upgrade from the demo version. The formations of the enemy ships, appearing almost like single snakes and breaking up into segments as you shoot them was an unpleasant surprise but a nice touch.

INNOVATION - 2/5

While rapid fire and homing missiles are no stranger to space shooters, regeneration and slow motion are a little bit less common. The common energy pool and the diamond shaped green power ups are nothing new, however.

OVERALL - 4.5/5

T.W.T.P.B. stands out among space shooters. The biggest disappointment in the entire game is that there are only 10 levels. Given a bit of luck it may even be possible to complete the whole thing in under an hour. Space shooters, however, lend themselves well to killing little bits of time here and there, particularly with the gate system. Ultimately, the full version of T.W.T.P.B. is sure to be money well spent.

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