A.R.E.S. Extinction Agenda EX
" Thrilling action indie with dual campaigns and crisp visuals but frustrating controls and level design "
A.R.E.S. Extinction Agenda EX Review
A.R.E.S. Extinction Agenda EX is a 2.5D side-scrolling platformer/shooter heavily inspired by Mega Man X and Metroid, featuring two playable android characters with distinct combat styles and storylines. The game offers solid graphics, a rocking soundtrack by Hyperduck Soundworks and Charlie Parra del Riego, and a level-up system involving resource gathering and upgrades. Players appreciate the dual campaigns, upgrade mechanics, and the game's nostalgic homage to classic action platformers.
However, the game suffers from several issues, including clunky and unresponsive controls, especially problematic jumping mechanics, which lead to frequent frustrating deaths. Level design and platforming sections are sometimes overly punishing and poorly telegraphed, with problematic hitboxes and camera issues. The new character Tarus, while offering a different playstyle, is often seen as inferior due to reused levels not tailored to his abilities. Some players find the game grindy, with healing and upgrades consuming the same resources. Despite these flaws, it remains an enjoyable experience for fans of the genre, especially at a discounted price.
Highlights
Players praise the game's engaging dual campaigns featuring Ares and Tarus, each with unique weapons and stories.
The graphics and character designs are generally well-received, with crisp visuals and appealing sprite work.
The soundtrack is a standout, featuring memorable rock and electronic tracks that complement the game's atmosphere.
The upgrade system and resource gathering add depth, encouraging exploration and replayability.
Fans of classic action platformers appreciate its homage to Mega Man X and Metroid styles.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the clunky and unresponsive controls, especially the jump mechanic, which often fails and causes frustrating deaths.
The level design includes poorly telegraphed hazards, annoying insta-death sections, and cramped areas that limit player movement.
Hitboxes are sometimes inconsistent, leading to unfair damage from enemies and bosses.
The new character Tarus is viewed as less fun and less effective due to levels not being redesigned to suit his abilities.
The game can feel grindy with resource management for healing and upgrades, and some players find boss fights tedious or unbalanced.
Pros
- • Dual campaigns with unique characters and stories enhance replayability.
- • Graphics and character designs are crisp and visually appealing.
- • Rocking soundtrack by Hyperduck Soundworks and Charlie Parra del Riego.
- • Upgrade system adds strategic depth and encourages exploration.
- • Controls are responsive for shooting and aiming with a controller.
- • Leveling up weapons and abilities provides satisfying progression.
- • Animated cutscenes improve storytelling and presentation.
Cons
- • Jumping controls are often unresponsive and cause frequent deaths.
- • Level design includes frustrating insta-death traps and tight spaces.
- • Hitboxes are inconsistent, leading to unfair damage from enemies.
- • Tarus character feels inferior due to reused levels not tailored to him.
- • Healing and upgrades share resources, causing grinding and pacing issues.
- • Some boss fights are overly long or have unbalanced difficulty spikes.
- • Certain foreground elements obscure enemies and hazards unexpectedly.
Rating Criteria
Screenshots
Frequently Asked Questions
When was A.R.E.S. Extinction Agenda EX released?
A.R.E.S. Extinction Agenda EX was released on October 3, 2014.
Who developed A.R.E.S. Extinction Agenda EX?
A.R.E.S. Extinction Agenda EX was developed by Extend Studio.
Is A.R.E.S. Extinction Agenda EX available on Mac?
No, A.R.E.S. Extinction Agenda EX is not currently available on Mac according to our data.
Is A.R.E.S. Extinction Agenda EX available on Linux?
No, A.R.E.S. Extinction Agenda EX is not currently available on Linux according to our data.
Where can I buy A.R.E.S. Extinction Agenda EX?
You can buy A.R.E.S. Extinction Agenda EX on Steam.
Game Details
A 2.5D action-packed side-scrolling game, takes players on a thrilling sci-fi adventure! Take control of combat specialist Ares, or the new playable character, Tarus, to battle deadly machines with a variety of powerful weapons and armor. Your goal: Save Minos Space Station’s survivors and uncover the nefarious Zytron’s extinction agenda!