X-Out: Resurfaced Review
ININ and Ziggurat’s remake of classic shoot ‘em up X-Out is a joy on modern consoles.
X-Out: Resurfaced. Credit: ININ / Ziggurat
X-Out: Resurfaced from ININ and Ziggurat brings Rainbow Arts’ classic Amiga and C64 shoot ‘em up game to modern consoles and Steam, rebuilt from the ground up. The SHMUP challenges players to stop an alien invasion in the ocean by blasting the creatures with custom-built submarines in side-scrolling, action-packed levels.
Players pilot a customizable submarine through intense underwater battles. Enemies attack from all directions, requiring quick reflexes to survive. The upgradeable arsenal features different types of projectiles, passive attacks, charged attacks, and special attacks.
X-Out: Resurfaced. Credit: ININ / Ziggurat
In the improved shop system, players can use credits earned in missions to buy subs and pack them with lethal weapons and accessories. Rather than a standard life system, X-Out gives the player as many lives as subs that they’ve outfitted in the shop. There’s strategy involved in deciding whether to upgrade existing subs or buy new ones; players must spend their credits carefully. The game also offers preconfigured load-outs, a great way to jump into the action quickly.
Resurfaced adds a local couch co-op mode, letting two players team up to take on the alien menace together. The new Mirror Mode adds an extra challenge by reversing level layouts, adding replay value, and throwing a wrench in the muscle memory players must build to master the game.
The game's enhanced graphics and particle effects make battles feel more dynamic. Resurfaced looks like a high-end SNES or PlayStation 1 game; the level of polish and attention to detail is high. Chris Huelsbeck's remastered soundtrack is excellent, and there’s an option to use the Amiga or C64 soundtracks instead. I wish there was a way to switch between Amiga, C64, and modern graphics on the fly.
The game’s opening adds to the charm. The developers added a trainer screen that makes Resurfaced look like it’s a pirated copy from the old days with cracked in cheats added. Young gamers won’t recognize what this is, but old-timers will appreciate the humorous throwback.
X-Out: Resurfaced. Credit: ININ / Ziggurat
X-Out: Resurfaced is a fantastic way to experience this classic shooter. It’s far improved from its original 1990 release and is a welcome addition to modern PCs and consoles. If you enjoy shoot ‘em ups, you’ll have a great time.
X-Out: Resurfaced will be available on PC (Steam), PlayStation 5, Xbox One / Series X|S, and Nintendo Switch on February 20, 2025.
Overall Score: 7/10
Played on: PlayStation 5
