Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

At its core, Xfinity delivers the classic appeal of a horizontal scrolling shoot ’em up, inviting players to pilot a sleek spaceship against hordes of alien invaders. The controls are responsive whether you opt for number keys or a joystick, and the option to enable auto fire reduces finger fatigue during prolonged engagements. The intuitive control scheme means newcomers can jump straight into the action, while seasoned players will appreciate the precision when dodging dense enemy fire.

(HEY YOU!! We hope you enjoy! We try not to run ads. So basically, this is a very expensive hobby running this site. Please consider joining us for updates, forums, and more. Network w/ us to make some cash or friends while retro gaming, and you can win some free retro games for posting. Okay, carry on 👍)

One of the standout features of Xfinity is its non-linear level progression. With four distinct stages—ranging from meteor-strewn expanses to claustrophobic caverns—gamers can choose their own path through the campaign. This flexibility boosts replayability, as tackling the stages in different orders changes the rhythm and strategy of each playthrough, keeping the experience fresh and engaging.

Enemies in Xfinity are varied, each type demanding unique tactics. Standard fighters pepper your screen with predictable wing-to-wing patterns, while armored cruisers require sustained firepower or a well-timed strafing run. Defeating certain foes yields bonus items that either upgrade your ship’s weaponry or enhance its speed. Managing these power-ups becomes crucial in later levels, as concentrated enemy waves and environmental hazards test both reflexes and resource management.

Graphics

Xfinity sports vibrant, retro-inspired visuals that pay homage to the golden era of arcade shooters. Background art is detailed enough to convey each level’s unique atmosphere—from glittering asteroid belts to the damp, rocky textures of subterranean caverns—while foreground enemy sprites stay crisp and distinct, even when the screen grows crowded with projectiles.

The game’s particle effects are a highlight, adding punch to explosions and laser blasts without sacrificing clarity. When a power-up is collected, the ship gleams with an energized glow that not only looks satisfying but also provides immediate visual feedback on your enhanced capabilities. Boss encounters are accentuated by larger, more elaborate designs, and the flashing warning lights that precede major attacks help you anticipate and react to patterns.

Despite its arcade roots, Xfinity benefits from smooth animations and a consistent frame rate across all platforms. There’s no perceptible slowdown, even in the most chaotic sections, which ensures that split-second maneuvering feels fair and precise. The UI elements—such as your life count and current firepower level—are unobtrusive, allowing you to stay immersed in the action without distraction.

Story

While Xfinity doesn’t rely on a deep narrative to drive its gameplay, it establishes enough backstory to give context to your interstellar mission. As the last surviving pilot of the X-Wing Taskforce, you’re tasked with thwarting an alien armada bent on galactic conquest. Each level represents a bold push deeper into enemy territory, raising the stakes as you progress.

The minimalist storytelling approach is fitting for a high-octane shooter, allowing players to focus on reflexes and tactics rather than lengthy cutscenes. Brief mission briefings before each stage outline your objective—whether it’s clearing out a wave of enemy fighters or dismantling a heavily fortified mothership—providing just enough narrative motivation to keep you invested between bouts of action.

Characterization comes through in the design and behavior of the alien forces. Early foes feel like opportunistic scavengers, but as you advance, the invaders appear more organized and aggressive, hinting at a larger intelligence orchestrating the conflict. This subtle progression of enemy sophistication gives a sense of escalation, reinforcing the impression that you’re waging a critical campaign rather than just racking up points.

Overall Experience

Xfinity succeeds by striking a balance between accessibility and depth. With three difficulty settings—Easy, Normal, and Hard—players of all skill levels can find a comfortable challenge. Beginners will appreciate the forgiving nature of lower difficulties and auto-fire support, while veterans can crank the challenge to Hard for relentless enemy volleys and tighter hamstrung hitboxes.

The choice to let players tackle levels in any order enhances the game’s strategic layer. You might start in the cavernous tunnels to grab a speed boost power-up before plunging into the meteor field, or vice versa if you prefer a heavier firepower build. This freedom encourages experimentation and multiple playthroughs, each revealing new ways to optimize your route and loadout.

Overall, Xfinity is a polished homage to classic side-scrolling shooters that still manages to feel fresh. Its combination of responsive controls, varied environments, and a well-paced difficulty curve ensures that both casual gamers and hardcore shoot ’em up fans will find plenty to enjoy. If you’re seeking a fast-paced, no-nonsense arcade experience with modern sensibilities, Xfinity is well worth adding to your collection.

Retro Replay Score

null/10