Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Silkworm introduces a refreshing twist to the classic horizontally-scrolling shoot-em-up formula by giving players control not only of a nimble helicopter but, in two-player mode, of a heavily armed jeep. The helicopter offers agile, aerial strafing runs and vertical movement, while the jeep delivers ground-based firepower and the ability to absorb a few hits on the tarmac. This duality creates a dynamic interplay as you alternate between barrel rolls in the sky and explosive blasts on the ground.

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The cooperative element is where Silkworm truly shines: one pilot flies over hostile territory, while the other rumbles across the ground. Both must protect each other from waves of aircraft, tanks, and a variety of mechanized foes. The controls are immediately intuitive, and masterful coordination between players is richly rewarded. You’ll find yourself calling out targets, covering blind spots, and forming impromptu strategies as new enemy types emerge.

Adding to the tension is the signature “goose” helicopter that periodically appears after a set number of kills. This special enemy is fast, elusive, and armed to the teeth. Destroying it nets you a coveted weapon power-up, so deciding whether to chase this airborne prize amid heavy enemy fire becomes a thrilling risk-vs-reward scenario. Even during end-of-level bosses, the goose can swoop in, ensuring that no stage ever feels predictable or safe.

Graphics

Visually, Silkworm captures the vibrant pixel art style of late-’80s arcades. Each sprite is crisply animated, from the rotors of your helicopter to the treads of your jeep, and the scrolling backgrounds pulsate with activity. The game moves smoothly across both land and air zones, with little to no flicker or slowdown—an impressive technical feat for its era.

The developers made excellent use of color contrasts to distinguish between player craft, enemies, and environmental hazards. Desert sands give way to verdant jungles and industrial complexes, offering a modest but effective variety of terrain. Enemy designs range from standard ground turrets to jet-powered bombers, each rendered with enough detail to feel unique and menacing.

Special effects are kept simple yet impactful: explosions bloom in fiery bursts, bullets leave bright tracers, and the occasional screen shake underscores heavier impacts. While it doesn’t boast the multi-layered parallax scrolling of some contemporaries, Silkworm’s visuals remain consistently clear and appealing, even during the most chaotic firefights.

Story

Silkworm doesn’t burden itself with a sprawling narrative, opting instead for a straightforward premise: enemy forces have overrun key territories, and it’s up to an elite duo to punch through fortified defenses and restore peace. This minimalist approach serves the game well, keeping the focus squarely on action and cooperative tactics.

The camaraderie between helicopter pilot and jeep gunner is implied rather than spelled out, but it’s easy to imagine two veteran soldiers working in seamless concert. There’s a satisfying sense of progression as you advance through hostile regions, each level bringing you closer to the enemy’s stronghold and culminating in a showdown against a heavy armored boss.

Despite its arcade roots, Silkworm conveys stakes with simple mission introductions and boss encounters. The lack of lengthy cutscenes is actually a strength here, allowing you to remain engaged in the nonstop onslaught while still feeling a palpable sense of purpose from stage to stage.

Overall Experience

Silkworm offers a distilled, no-nonsense shoot-em-up experience that feels as rewarding today as it was decades ago. The land/air dynamic keeps the gameplay loop fresh, ensuring that every mission requires both quick reflexes and tactical foresight. Cooperative play elevates the excitement, making each run feel like a joint crusade against overwhelming odds.

The game’s challenge curve is well balanced, steadily introducing new enemy types and mid-level minibosses without ever feeling unfair. The eruption of bullets and rockets on screen might appear daunting at first, but with practice and coordination, players will learn optimal flight paths and firing patterns. The sporadic goose appearances serve as thrilling high points, often turning the tide of battle with a game-changing power-up.

For fans of classic arcade shooters and couch co-op action, Silkworm remains a standout title. Its blend of accessible controls, engaging boss fights, and the enduring appeal of cooperative tactics make it a must-try for anyone looking to experience a hallmark of the genre. Whether you’re a retro enthusiast or a newcomer curious about gaming history, Silkworm delivers exhilarating combat from start to finish.

Retro Replay Score

7.4/10