Eschatos – Classic shooter taking it back to basics

Earlier this month, we brought you the news that Eschatos, from Qute Corporation, was getting a physical release on Switch and PlayStation. It had previously been a Japanese exclusive before seeing a worldwide digital release on PC, Switch and PlayStation recently. The physical release is now up for pre-order thanks to Strictly Limited Games, we get our blast on by testing out the Switch version.

Originally released on the Xbox 360 in 2011, Eschatos is a traditional vertically scrolling shooter that sticks to the core mechanics of the genre. There are no gimmicks or odd gameplay tricks on show here, you have a basic wide shot, straight shot and a shield. In the original mode, there are two types of pick up, an enemy bullet clearing flash bang and extra lives.

Selecting the advanced mode adds some more interesting power-ups, a simple weapon upgrade system with seven levels, and a pick-up that converts enemy bullets into bonus points. The time attack mode introduces another pick-up that adds fifteen seconds to your counter.

The scoring system works on a time mechanic, the quicker you clear a wave the more bonus points you’re awarded. The simplicity of the pickups and scoring allows you to just get on with the fun blasting and not worry about weapon systems or combo scoring.

Eschatos also has a speed toggle that reduces or increases your ship’s movement. This will be of interest to shmup veterans that want to aim for the one credit clear. Some bosses send a lot of bullets out and being able to slow down on the fly is very useful.

It never quite reaches the realms of a bullet hell shooter but there is always a lot going on in Eschatos, the waves are constant and bosses appear every few minutes. It’s tough but not overly difficult and even newbies to the genre should be able to get quite far quickly after learning the basics.

Graphically, there is lots of colour and variety in the enemies and bosses. There is a slight lack of detail to the ships and backgrounds but the overall look is slick and is a feast for the eyes. Occasionally, the enemy fire does blend in with the scenery or explosions that lead to the odd cheap death but nothing that spoils the gameplay. The music has a real 90s arcade feel to it that pulses along at a good beat.

As a bonus, you can unlock new gameplay features, such as more credits, as you progress. These add some longevity and also allow you to get further as you improve. A further bonus of two WonderSwan titles, Silversword and Cardinal Sins, are included. These were also developed by Qute Corporation and are spiritual predecessors of Eschatos due to their similar mechanics.

Those who want to create an authentic arcade experience can use the Tate mode that is selected on the main menu. Overall Eschatos is a competent shooter that has just about enough depth to please shooter veterans while being accessible enough for casual fans. It doesn’t do anything new but covers all the basics of the genre well and provides a fun, fast and varied shooting romp.