TL;DR
Mechstermination Force is a stylish, modern-looking retro shooter from Sweden, all about taking down giant robots with a variety of weapons. Developed by Hörberg Productions, known for Gunman Clive, the game demands precise execution and understanding enemy attack patterns, similar to classic run-and-gun titles. While the initial challenge is manageable, expect a significant difficulty spike, especially as robots transform. Designed with the Nintendo Switch in mind, it looks and plays well in both docked and handheld modes. Mechstermination Force offers a rewarding sense of accomplishment for those who enjoy tough, pattern-based gameplay, potentially appealing to fans of challenging games. Ready to see if you have what it takes to conquer these mechanical behemoths? Dive into the full review to find out more.
Both The Division 2 and Generation Zero have significant development ties to Sweden. However, Mechstermination Force is a wholly Swedish product, developed in Skövde by Hörberg Productions, led by Bertil Hörberg. Hörberg is also known for the Gunman Clive games, previously released on Wii U and Switch.
Mechstermination Force centers around engaging and defeating colossal robots, providing players with a diverse arsenal of weapons and upgrades. After selecting from four playable characters, the gameplay loop involves identifying the robot’s vulnerabilities and exploiting them through sustained fire or melee attacks. The difficulty curve is steep, yet the game becomes surprisingly manageable once the robot’s attack patterns are understood – reminiscent of classic run-and-gun titles like Contra (Probotector) and Midnight Resistance. Successfully deciphering a robot’s behavior is only half the battle; maintaining focus and executing precise inputs under pressure are essential for survival.
Mechstermination Force joins the ranks of numerous contemporary games embracing a “retro style.” However, unlike titles such as Beat Cop, the game boasts clean, stylish, and decidedly modern graphics. The internal reward system delivers a satisfying sense of accomplishment upon finally defeating a challenging robot. While the initial level presents minimal difficulty, expect a significant increase in challenge as the game progresses.
I encountered considerable difficulty with the third robot. Just as I believed I had successfully dismantled it, the enemy transformed into a new, more aggressive form, requiring a revised combat strategy.
Mechstermination Force is explicitly designed for the Nintendo Switch. Unlike some Switch titles, which are often ports from other platforms, the developers have carefully considered the console’s limitations, particularly regarding screen real estate in handheld mode. While the player character may appear small, the game remains visually clear and playable, with no noticeable difference in difficulty compared to playing on a larger screen.
In conclusion, Mechstermination Force may not appeal to all gamers, finding its primary audience among fans of From Softwares notoriously challenging games. Personally, I find that predictable enemy patterns and repetitive execution can become tedious. As Mechstermination Force‘s core gameplay loop relies heavily on pattern recognition and execution, it shares similarities with classic arcade games like Pac-man or Tetris – offering engaging, albeit fleeting, entertainment.
