As confusing the time mechanic of Zeit² may sound on paper in practice it quickly becomes second nature. Indeed at times it is almost too useful as opponents become unable to avoid the time controlling shenanigans. It is incredibly enjoyable and is by far the highlight as the game becomes more challenging, offering a good balance of tension and reward.

 

 

Unfortunately the inventiveness displayed in the design of the core system does seem to run out in other areas of the game. Enemy attack patterns’ lack variety and are easily predictable with most choosing direct attacks using their own physical form as a weapon rather than any additional projectiles. With attack patterns so wrote all that is left is to layer on multiple waves of attackers rather than offering new opposition who are challenging in and of themselves (bar the ever escalating but always familiar boss battles).

 

Also greatly lacking in the creativity department is the visual and audio design. The striking white and blue of the enemies is always set against a marbled background which at best changes colour between levels, offering very little in the way of eye candy. This leads to an overall effect that is more reminiscent of a 90’s music visualise than a modern HD shooter, and does nothing to hide the predictable nature of the enemy craft.

 

 

"Zeit²" does bring something new to the shooter format, which is a good thing because without its gimmick it would do little to grab attention. Much like its core mechanic Zeit² seems to have done the shoot um up mould backwards. Coming up with an intriguing and novel gameplay hook, where other games would rely on the ever-increasing spectacle of more powerful weapons.

 

But having conceived this concept Brightside Games seem to have rested on the laurels when designing the visual elements and opponents faced, leaving it feeling underwhelming despite the fancy mechanics surrounding it.

 

At 800MS points Zeit² is worth a look if you are familiar with the genre and looking to see a novel twist on it, but for those less versed with shooters there are many others that offer far more variety and value.

 

 

 

 

+ Interesting core mechanic ...