Unlike most SHMUPs, Futuridium EP is pure skill and reflexes. No fancy abilities or upgradable weaponry. Your ship does come equipped with lasers though, capable of destroying cubes to keep a combo going. Oh, and you can do instant 180 degree turns. A fast, furious and fun arcade experience, now on PS4 and Vita, with lovely enhancements and additions!
Now, as I’m sure some of you are wondering how a game with so much happening on-screen at a blazing fast 60 FPS might run on the Vita, well, it only kinda does. According to MixedBag Co-Founder Mauro Fanelli (via. PlayStation LifeStyle), they “had to cut some graphic effects” to avoid potential performance issues. A fair trade-off I’d say, as performance should obviously be prioritized in a game like this. You only have one shot, one opportunity, after all.
On a more positive note, the game is cross-buy, so no matter which version you pick up, both will be added to your PSN account. Oh and leaderboards are shared across the two, meaning you’ll be able to compete with other Futuridium EP fans, even if you’re not at home (that is, if you own a Vita, of course).
But enough about that, as I’m sure you’re wondering exactly what makes this the ‘definitive version’. Well, I’d say the “huge new campaign featuring 50 levels”, “five bosses, crazy bonus levels” and “new gameplay mechanics”, along with “well-hidden super secret stuff and a slew of unlockable extra modes” certainly warrants such a label. There are also 150 medals and a bunch of trophies to collect, because, PlayStation® game, ya know?
Those without a console haven’t been forgotten, as Futuridium EP is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux from Desura ($0) and iOS ($1.99). But… as far as the Deluxe enhancements/additions go, well, I managed to get a quote straight from the dev: “At the moment there are no plan to integrate the extra PS4/PSVita content on PC/Mac/iOS”, which is a darn shame if you ask me.
I’m gonna remain hopeful though, since “at the moment” doesn’t translate to “never gonna happen”. Not that the free version isn’t awesome in its own right, mind you, and… word has it they’ll be putting it on Steam later this year – still free. Besides, the original is a pretty darn awesome game in its own right, and you can’t argue with the lack of a price tag!
Futuridium EP Deluxe is available on PSN for PS4 and Vita for $12.49, with a 20% PS+ discount. Meanwhile, the Windows/Mac/Linux version can be acquired from Desura for $0, while the iOS port carries a $1.99 price tag. Happy flying!
