Graphically, Fusion Genesis manages to pack in an amazing amount of detail for a top-down game. The environments have plenty of detail, and really change significantly as you progress through to different areas. The ships also look pretty good, but the weapon effects are brilliant. Some of the art work can be a little generic, and there is only so much you can do with this type of game, but the Starfire developers should be rightly proud of cramming so much into one 500MB package.

 

 

Unusually, the sound is a slight step above the graphics. Much of the text is competently voiced, and the writing is decent enough. The music also has quite a bit of variation, whilst the ambient noise is also really good for a downloadable title. Whilst a clear step behind the vast majority of boxed titles still, this is a step in the right direction for an independently developed title.

 

 

 

Fusion has probably some of the most interesting multiplayer of any XBLA game. It’s instanced, in the same way some MMO’s work, so when you are in a normal area, you will also be flying past other humans. There are also various instanced missions as well which others can join and leave at will. In theory, it’s an awesome system, and one that works well. In practice, the game is let down somewhat by the traditional dearth of players online when it comes to XBLA games.

 

 

"Fusion Genesis" presents a staggering sized and scoped game, with some very innovative features for a compact price. However, even the simple yet compelling gameplay can struggle under the dreadful menu and upgrade system, whilst some parts of the game look cobbled together when compared to others. With more time and money, there is an amazing sequel to be had here. Even as it stands, this is a deep featured, excellent little title you shouldn’t hesitate to pick up.

 

 

 

 

 

+ Multiplayer Instancing