Replikator is a top-down twin-stick shooter created by indie developer R_Games, that has now been brought to consoles by Ratalaika Games, following a successful release on Steam last year.
Set within a number of complex labyrinth-esque space stations, you will encounter horde after horde of alien nasties, where you will blast and loot your way, unlocking rooms, until you ultimately find the exit, or die. You’ll usually die. But dying isn’t the end of your journey, as you’re reborn with all of your upgrades to try again. And again. And again.
Thankfully there are lower difficulty levels for us mortals, and at the start of each mission, you can also select a different hero and any weapon upgrades that you’ve found. Each space station is also procedurally-generated, so no run is ever exactly the same. There is a bit of a story here, about an all-powerful AI that you need to destroy, but you forget most of it.
You will need a lot of patience, as death – just like life – can be pretty unfair at times, but this isn’t uncommon with rogue-like titles. As you progress you will appreciate the large variety of different enemies and bosses, but you will also notice the general repetitiveness of the gameplay.
The retro graphics and sounds are impressive, the controls are fast-paced and accurate, and if you like repetition, you will find a lot to like here.
Replikator is available now on PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and Nintendo Switch, priced at £9.99 // €9.99 // $9.99.
