This is Niche Spotlight. In this column, we regularly introduce new games to our fans, so please leave feedback and let us know if there’s a game you want us to cover!
Today’s Spotlight is Zero Strain, a top-down shooter by Kaio Meris.
Zero Strain markets itself as a game that combines the tactical, ability-based character management of a MOBA with the intense action of a twin-stick shooter. The game features multiple ships to pilot, each of which has a unique loadout of weapons and passive abilities.
Instead of having a traditional cooldown system for abilities, Zero Strain uses a charge system that increases the rate at which your weapons charge based on how high your combo is. You can find a trailer above.
Zero Strain is available on Windows PC via Steam for $19.99.
Here’s a rundown of the game:
Zero Strain combines the strategy and tactics of MOBA combat with the speed and awareness of a shoot em’ up.
Gameplay
Each ship in the game comes equipped with three unique weapons and a passive ability. These weapons offer the same creativity and depth of abilities found in the best MOBA games, but you will not find a single cooldown on any of them. Instead, all weapons in the game work on a charge system that builds off the damage you deal. Abilities charge fast, and playing well makes them charge even faster.
But don’t get too carried away. Zero Strain’s shoot em’ up DNA is in full effect. Enemies defend themselves and require a mix of strategies to take down. Bosses shrug off mindless spamming and demand careful observation and reaction. Bullets fill the screen and force well-timed dodges to avoid them or well-aimed shots to shoot them down. You’ll need to balance offense and defense at all times.
At first you’ll struggle, but before long, you’ll be slinging around enemies and unleashing perfectly timed weapon combos in a spectacular dance of destruction!
Features
- Multiple ships to master, each with their own unique weapons and abilities.
- Challenging bosses that reward careful planning and quick reactions.
- Fast gameplay. No cooldowns. The only limit is your own skill.
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