Retro-Gaming with Neon Tango
Back in the early 80’s, before Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Grunge music and cable television, there existed a paradise of electrons and buttons and beeps. It was a haven where even the dorkiest kid could get some props for beating the high score. For those of us who spent our formative years dropping thousands of quarters into machines at the local arcade, there is a new game that will bring back the romantic days of the twitch-fest.
The game is Neon Tango, a suave throwback to the paper-and-pencil games we played in grade school, similar in some respects to SketchFighter 4000 Alpha, but way more hip, colorful, and fast. In the 80’s, you had a chance to dodge or swoop or breathe, but with Neon Tango pausing for a breath might get you blown up!
Gameplay is fast from the start. You quickly learn where the buttons are, how to maneuver your ship, and how to shoot the primary and secondary weapons. Once you feel comfortable, you’re off to fight through fifty levels of enemies with a boss fight at the end of each. After a few levels, it becomes difficult to keep up with the neon glow of all the enemies and this is where quick reflexes can really save you.
Two tips for those just starting out. First, learn each level map early-on as there may be power-ups or portals that can help you escape an ambush and turn the tables on the baddies. Second, practice the lost art of strafing–moving side-to-side while firing–by pressing the down arrow key. Also try bouncing your shots off walls and other objects, to catch enemies unprepared.
If you’re a fan of SketchFighter 4000 Alpha or the WingNuts games, this will be right up your alley. Neon Tango is a hip retro-shooter with modern sound and bright, crisp colors. It retails for $24.95 and you can try out a demo from Freeverse.
I quite enjoyed SketchFighter, so I think I’ll check this out.
Thanks for the heads-up!