RIP - Trilogy™
" Nostalgic arcade shooter trilogy with varied weapons and co-op, but buggy and unbalanced "
RIP - Trilogy™ Review
The RIP - Trilogy™ is a collection of three top-down shooter games that evoke a retro, arcade-style experience reminiscent of 90s-era shareware titles. Players generally find the gameplay simple and repetitive, with the first game featuring a stationary turret mechanic and the latter two allowing player movement. While RIP 1 and RIP 2 receive mixed to negative feedback due to frustrating difficulty spikes, poor level design, and technical issues, RIP 3 is often highlighted as the strongest entry with more variety, improved mechanics, and enjoyable co-op play. Graphically, the trilogy is considered outdated with low-resolution sprites and amateurish visuals, which some players find charming in a nostalgic way, while others see as subpar. The story is minimal, often described as nonsensical or juvenile, and many players focus solely on the gameplay. Technical problems like mouse input issues, crashes, and sound glitches affect the experience. Overall, the trilogy appeals mainly to fans of classic twin-stick shooters looking for a budget or nostalgic title, especially on sale.
Highlights
Players praise the gameplay mechanics of RIP 1 and especially RIP 3, noting the variety of weapons, strategic elements, and challenging yet fun combat. RIP 3’s local co-op mode and boss fights receive positive mentions. The retro art style and large sprite designs evoke nostalgia for 90s arcade shooters, which some players appreciate. The leveling system and character abilities add some depth. Despite simplicity, the games offer addictive arcade shooter action that can serve as a time-killer. The trilogy is considered good value when purchased on sale or in a bundle.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the trilogy’s dated and low-quality graphics and sound, repetitive and sometimes frustrating gameplay, and poor level design that can cause unfair difficulty spikes. RIP 2 is frequently described as unbalanced and buggy, with some players unable to progress without hacks. The story is regarded as weak, confusing, or juvenile. Mouse control and input issues impair playability. Additionally, resolution options are limited and can cause crashes, and some gameplay mechanics—like weapon swapping and enemy AI—are poorly implemented. Many reviewers warn that the games feel like flash or shareware projects and recommend avoiding the trilogy at full price.
Pros
- • RIP 3 offers varied weapons and enjoyable local co-op gameplay.
- • The trilogy provides nostalgic arcade-style twin-stick shooter action.
- • RIP 1’s stationary turret mechanic is a unique gameplay twist.
- • Large sprites and retro visuals evoke 90s gaming charm.
- • Leveling and character abilities add strategic depth.
- • RIP 3 features diverse enemies, bosses, and vehicles.
- • The games are addictive and suitable as casual time-killers.
Cons
- • Graphics and sound are low-resolution and amateurish.
- • RIP 2 is unbalanced, buggy, and frustrating to complete.
- • Poor level design leads to unfair difficulty spikes.
- • Mouse input and control issues hinder gameplay experience.
- • Limited resolution options cause crashes on modern systems.
- • Repetitive gameplay and lack of story depth bore many players.
- • Weapon swapping mechanics are clunky and restrictive.
Rating Criteria
With the completion of the third title in the RIP series, the RIP games have become an instant classic in the arcade-shooter genre. RIP Trilogy brings all three RIP titles into one exciting and heart-pounding pack.RIPNot afraid of Death? What if he is accompanied by Halloween and Rock-N-Roll?