Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Xevious 3D/G+ delivers a dynamic blend of classic and modern shoot ’em up mechanics across its four included titles: Xevious 3D/G, the original Xevious arcade version, Super Xevious, and Xevious Arrangement. In the flagship Xevious 3D/G mode, pilots guide the Solvalou fighter through a fully polygonal, third-person perspective, weaving between enemy formations while targeting both aerial and ground threats. The game retains the series’ signature dual-weapon system—bullets for air targets and bombers for ground installations—but expands it with three upgradable power-ups: rapid-fire bullets, piercing lasers, and devastating plasma beams. Each pick-up reshapes your tactical approach, forcing you to adapt on the fly as enemies swarm from all directions.

One of the most engaging aspects of Xevious 3D/G+ is how it balances nostalgia with fresh challenges. The arcade-perfect ports of the original Xevious and Super Xevious offer the straightforward vertical-scroll action that defined the genre, complete with precise hitboxes and relentless waves of Sol bases. Meanwhile, Xevious Arrangement modernizes the formula with remixed level layouts, new enemy patterns, and a reorchestrated soundtrack that injects fresh urgency into well-worn terrain. Together, these modes create a layered difficulty curve—beginners can start with the familiar 2D classics, then graduate to the more elaborate 3D stages and arrangement variants.

Control responsiveness remains tight throughout, whether you’re dodging the classic Andor Genesis swoopers in Super Xevious or circling massive bosses in the 3D/G levels. Enemy variety is surprisingly rich: from low-flying fighters and agile bombers to hulking ground bunkers and serpent-like air worms, each encounter demands split-second decisions. The inclusion of multiple game modes—including score attack, time trial, and a full campaign—ensures significant replay value, as you chase high scores, hunt for hidden power-ups, and master the Solvalou’s arsenal across diverse environments.

Graphics

Graphically, Xevious 3D/G+ juxtaposes retro pixel art with early 3D polygonal visuals, making for an eclectic presentation that celebrates the franchise’s evolution. The original Xevious and Super Xevious modes are rendered faithfully in crisp 2D sprites, preserving the vibrant color palette and fluid animations reminiscent of mid-’80s arcade cabinets. These classic modes feel instantly recognizable, from the distinctive orange grid of the ground plane to the intricate designs of the Andor Genesis mothership.

In contrast, the 3D/G and Arrangement modes embrace early 3D aesthetics—think low-poly terrain and chunky, angular enemies—yet still manage to convey scale and dynamism effectively. Explosions bloom with bright particle effects, and the Solvalou model rotates smoothly as you bank around obstacles. While today’s standards render these polygons simplistic, at the time of release they provided an exhilarating sense of immersion, especially when massive creatures loom on the horizon or ground structures rise from the desert floor.

Subtle visual flourishes tie the compilation together: demoscene-style screen transitions, retro CRT filter options, and optional color-correction presets allow purists to fine-tune the look. On modern displays, the lack of high-resolution textures is noticeable, but the core visual identity remains intact—an appealing mash-up of classic arcade flair and early 3D ambition that evokes both nostalgia and curiosity.

Story

Xevious 3D/G+ follows a straightforward yet evocative premise: humanity’s ancestors once colonized the planet Xevious, only to be driven off by the native Xenian race. Now, the Xevians return to reclaim Earth, constructing vast ground fortresses and unleashing swarms of airborne marauders. As the last line of defense, you pilot the Solvalou fighter, tasked with bombing enemy installations and blasting through aerial squadrons. The narrative unfolds primarily through attract-mode screens and brief text intros between levels, emphasizing action over exposition.

Although the storyline lacks cinematic cutscenes or voiced dialogue, it succeeds in providing context for the relentless onslaught you face. Each mode reinforces the lore in its own way: the classic Xevious titles present the original conflict in its purest form, while Xevious Arrangement spices up the mythos by introducing remixed cut-ins and new boss encounters. The cumulative effect is a cohesive mythos that spans the series’ history without overcomplicating the player’s mission: destroy Xevious or perish trying.

This stripped-down approach to storytelling has its charm—every power-up collected and fortress demolished feels like a tangible step toward reclaiming Earth. For players seeking a deep narrative, the minimalist style may seem sparse, but for shoot ’em up aficionados, the lore functions as a driving backdrop rather than a distraction. The unrelenting pace and simple premise keep the focus squarely on high-octane gameplay.

Overall Experience

Xevious 3D/G+ stands out as a compelling package for both retro enthusiasts and newcomers to the shoot ’em up genre. By bundling the original Xevious arcade hit, its more challenging Super Xevious sequel, the innovative Xevious Arrangement remix, and the bold 3D/G reimagining, players receive a multifaceted journey through the franchise’s evolution. Each mode offers its own distinct flavor—whether it’s the crisp pixel-perfect action of the 2D classics or the immersive, depth-charged arenas of the 3D stages.

The compilation’s longevity is bolstered by its varied difficulty settings, multiple game modes, and leaderboard systems that encourage repeated runs. Novices can start with lower speeds and simpler layouts, while veterans can push the Solvalou to its limits, hunting for perfect runs and hidden secrets. The balance between straightforward pick-up-and-play fun and hardcore score-chasing depth ensures that Xevious 3D/G+ remains fresh long after the credits roll.

While some players may find the early 3D graphics dated, the nostalgic value and solid gameplay loop more than compensate. Xevious 3D/G+ is a testament to Namco’s pioneering spirit in the shmup genre and a fitting tribute to one of the most influential shooters of all time. For anyone curious about the roots of vertical scrolling shooters—or seeking a challenging arsenal of arcade thrills—Xevious 3D/G+ delivers a package that’s hard to resist.

Retro Replay Score

7/10