Lichtspeer

t’s very funny, very sharp, and most importantly, a lot of frenzied fun.

In a way, it's refreshing to get a game that knows exactly what it wants to do, executes on that idea, but doesn't overstay its welcome. The central mechanic of precision projectile motion is unique, and Lichtspeer plays with the formula enough to keep the experience fresh right up until the end.

Lichtspeer's saving grace is its exceedingly satisfying aim-and-throw gameplay. Simple and yet devilishly compelling, it's the one trick up the game's sleeve that'll keep you coming back for more, despite some very challenging sections and so-so bosses. Arcade gamers that are looking for something new will have a ball with the flinger's fast-paced action, but for most, this will likely only entertain for a short while. It's not the best arcade game around, then, but it's also by no means the wurst.

The difficulty in the later levels may be a turnoff for some, but that aside, Lichtspeer is highly enjoyable, action packed and a perfect blend of old-school action and new-school design.

If you don't mind dealing with a high level of difficulty, Lichtspeer may be the perfect game for you.

Lichtspeer: Double Speer Edition is a bizarre juxtaposition of an off-the-wall premise and aesthetics coupled with some basic shooting mechanics that stress trajectory and timing above all else. There isn't a ton of meat to the gameplay, but it's a fun little diversion and overall satisfying gaming appetizer.

Lichtspeer: Double Speer Edition offers up addicting and challenging platforming, as well as a truly fantastic soundtrack.

The question for you when considering Lichtspeer is whether you enjoy being challenged and whether you mind that the game ultimately revolves around getting very good at aiming and firing your speer. If you think you could say yes to both of these items there’s several hours of enjoyment to be had with the game, and you most certainly will be challenged over the course of playing it. If you finish the base stages you’ll be able to go for completing Game+ mode with even more enemies coming your way. If even that isn’t quite enough challenge for you feel free to take on the appropriately-named Rage Quit mode that will forcee you to complete the stages with no checkpoints. I tried and failed spectacularly, there’s always some bastard that breaks through at some point. For the right people I have no doubt Lichtspeer will be a good time, but I also would quickly say it isn’t for everyone.

There's value in the art, the style, the writing and the magic when it all comes together. As much as I enjoyed all that, however, I can't say that this is a game which plays well.

At its core, Lichtspeer works as a simplistic arcade experience.