The BIOTA game tries to faithfully recreate the style of old 8-bit metroidvania games, with different environments to explore. However, it can sometimes be too faithful to the point of becoming boring.

The 8-bit graphics make it difficult to distinguish between platforms and background elements. This confusion often leads to not knowing if projectiles can pass through platforms or be destroyed. Unfortunately, the only way to find out is by dying and trying again.

The game follows a progression system similar to Zelda games, where you need to buy important items or characters to progress. But before you can do that, you have to find a big enough purse to hold the money. This can feel like an unnecessary obstacle at times.

The first boss requires a unique approach. Instead of shooting it, you have to dodge its attacks and drop a bomb in its mouth at the right moment.

The other bosses are more standard and require shooting until they're defeated.

One unexpected feature is the ability to save anywhere on the screen without enemies or dangers. This is especially helpful during challenging platforming parts.

There are sections in the game where you control a mech or a submarine, perhaps as a tribute to games like Metal Slug. Unfortunately, these sections aren't very good.

The worst one is a frustrating rappelling sequence right before the final part. I almost stopped playing because of its randomness, but I managed to finish it by luck.

The final battle resembles a Star Fox game, like an arcade shooter. If I wanted to play Star Fox, I would have chosen that instead of a different game genre.

Despite its attempts to capture the retro feel and introduce new mechanics in each area, I didn't enjoy BIOTA very much. If it wasn't for the ability to save, I would have stopped playing halfway through.