Review - This 2D vertical shooter is a port of the arcade G-Net System ( Playstation-compatible) board.

Gameplay is striclty 2D while the backgrounds are 3D-generated.

The graphics are overall satisfactory but don't expect this game to show off the muscles of your X-Box hardware because you'll be disappointed. Sprites are nicely drawn in 2D and have a cool anime feel while backgrounds unfortunately lack detail and color for the most part.

Gampleay-wise, Shikigami fits in the current trend of "bullet hell" meaning there are literaly tons of bullets on screen. Luckily, controls are very precise allowing for some pixel perfect maneuvers. To annihilate the hordes of enemies that will cross your path, you will use either the main weapon which can be upgraded to various levels or you can use an alternate weapon (like for example with one of the characters, you'll be able to aim at the baddies using a target and this will get you more points).

The music ranges from some empowering techno beats to more traditional Japanese tunes.

All in all, Shikigami is worth playing if you are into shooters.

The version reviewed here includes an interesting mini art-booklet detailing game characters. I am not sure if the booklet comes only with the first print or if all of versions come with it.

Bottom line: a nice bullet-hell shooter with strong characters and gameplay but bare backgrounds....7/10