Noitu Love 2: Devolution (2008)

This title is a fast-paced 2D action game set in a futuristic world, the MC is called Xoda Rap as she battles robotic invaders in a series of colorful, chaotic levels. The game is immediately striking for its fluid, hand-drawn pixel art and energetic animation style that evokes classic run-and-gun titles from the 16-bit era. Its standout feature is the unique control scheme, which combines mouse-based targeting with rapid movement, allowing you to dash, attack, and combo enemies in a highly dynamic way.

The pacing is relentless, keeping you constantly on the move as the screen fills with enemies, explosions, and projectiles. Each stage offers distinct challenges and clever design twists, capped off with inventive boss fights that demand quick reflexes and adaptability. The soundtrack complements the fast action with upbeat, catchy tunes that fit the retro aesthetic perfectly. It's unique control scheme is what made me want to play this, but I played it until the end because of it's charming art-style and high quality soundtrack.

On the downside, the game’s short length is its biggest flaw, it can be completed in a few hours, making this feel like an arcade title of some sorts, so if you are not into those kinds of games than I would skip this one. Its difficulty also ramps up sharply, which may frustrate casual people, and the unconventional controls can take some time to master. Still, once the rhythm clicks, it becomes a rewarding experience. Overall, this game is a love letter to classic arcade action, filled with charm, creativity, and intense gameplay.

Noitu Love 2 not only fixes what was up with Noitu Love, it revamps it, revitalizes it, and makes an action game as fine as a Treasure game with wonderful use of the mouse as a mechanic for a 2D action game.

Taking place in the year 2288, you play as (obviously not Noitu clone) Xoda Rap, along with the doppelganger robot from the original Noitu and some guy named Almond. In the first playthrough, you take advantage of clicking the mouse to attack, hone in on enemies, place shields, and special attacks. Nothing is superfluous and everything is used in short but intensely sweet challenges on the way to the goal, and even having to replay stages isn't frustrating or boring.

As for second and third playthroughs though, be prepared to drag and drop your place, launch targeted lasers, and rail shoot your way through, as each character produces a completely different experience.

As for graphics, the game ditches its would-be 8-bit for a 32-bit style that feels like a really good GBA game (Omega Factor, even) - everything is alive with style and pays homage to the original game all while immensely improving every single bit about it, from the Darn trucks to O2-Joy to the Grim Reaper. It's a blast that'll leave you wanting more.

The adventure is well worth the cost, with exciting gameplay, great replayability, and a story that's not afraid to take some very interesting turns. For a game that appeared at the beginning of the indie boom, it sure started with a bang.