Time for Something Different- Zeit2 Review

Initially, Zeit² (pronounced “Zeit Squared”, after the German word for “time”) resembles a conventional horizontally-oriented shooter, as the player uses a rapid-firing laser to battle waves of westward foes. Unlike most entries in the genre, enemies usually aren’t antagonistic- the majority are content to simply scroll off the left edge of the screen, stealing a portion of the gamer’s energy in the process. Since each shot the player fires also siphons away this precious commodity, managing the vitality of your ship becomes Zeit²’s primary objective. Luckily, as your health decreases, so does the size of the bubble which protects your ship from destruction, giving the game a comforting sense of balance. Additionally, a liberal stream of energy kits- which either float aimlessly by or are dropped by dispatched opponents, aid players on their sixteen-stage endeavor.

Zeit²‘s aesthetics are the game’s other missed opportunity. Between the lack of any environmental objects, a constrained number of abstract looking-enemies, and remarkably drab backdrops, the title’s visuals divulge the game’s indie origins. If players weren’t rewarded with additional offensive weaponry, it might be exceedingly difficult to distinguish between each level. Fortunately, the game compensates for any graphical deficiencies with a robust set of play options- from time limit, survival, tactics, wave, score attack, and challenge, each modes offers an attractive variant. While the game’s soundtrack consists of unremarkable electronica, it’s innocuous and varied enough instigate irritation during lengthy  play sessions.

Although the game is certain to garner a faithful fanbase, I’d encourage most players to demo Zeit² before blindly clicking the purchase button. Sure, the time-manipulation ability adds a invigorating innovation to the genre, but the remainder of the title feels woefully unexceptional. Hopefully, the development team at Brightside Games can utilize their time to create a sequel that truly lives up to the game’s prodigious potential.