Squad 51 vs. the Flying Saucers

Even though Squad 51 vs. the Flying Saucers is beyond frustrating, I didn’t think it was that disappointing. It’s still very unique and completely bonkers. Its premise is set, and needs no improvements. Its gameplay design choices render it annoying to deal with right now, but I honestly think a second attempt, with a smaller playable character and better balancing, would result in one of the best bullet hell shooters in years. As of now, this is a fun diversion, but a flawed one.

Undeniably novel and entertaining with its decision to run with the vintage 50s black and white sci-fi look, but just a decent arcade shooter overall

I was not just having fun; I was invested in the cheesy over the top story. After every level I eagerly loaded up the next one excited to see more of this wonderfully realized world. Yes, the seams are sometimes more visible than one would hope, and loading times to restart a level are legitimately frustrating, but the net result is easily one of my personal favorite shumps of all time.

As a piece of '50s nostalgia, Squad 51 vs. the Flying Saucers fits the bill almost perfectly but as a shoot 'em up, it makes for quite a maddening experience complete with ambiguous visuals that will cause many unexpected failures.

Squad 51 vs. the Flying Saucers is honestly pretty great. You can just tell this game was made with love, and it shows. Between the unique FMV approach to Shmups, and it just being an overall good game, I'd say give it a go, even if the price point is a little bit much.

Squad 51 vs. The Flying Saucers is a brilliant game. With tight fun combat, combined with that incredible 50's style makes it a title that is incredibly unique and fun in the medium. While the black and white image can sometimes detract from gameplay, it still manages to be an amazing experience.

A great game that shows what R-Type could be like, if only it was coded in 1958! Blast the freaking aliens like it there's no tomorrow, with this stunning shoot 'em up action in black & white, with great FMV intros in every level.

Squad 51 vs. the Flying Saucers occasionally overcommits to its retro vibe with punishing and unfair difficulty, but its action is tight and it's charming enough to overlook the flaws.