Nanostray 2 improves upon the Nintendo DS original with an extra classic control option, a variety of modes and terrific presentation. However, due to its rampant difficulty scale and lack of credits, it may not be appropriate for amateurs or non-shooter fans.
Nanostray 2's stages shift between horizontal and vertical, changing up the perspective nicely. Either way you go, you'll shoot lots of enemies before battling a nearly indestructible boss, chipping away at its weak point with a number of power-ups. It's old school at its best, although it may be too much for its own good. The game works on a progressive "do it all in one shot" system with few lives and credits. Run out of both and you'll have to start that game all the way at the beginning.
Shoot everything and, if that doesn't work, shoot everything some more.
That's okay, because the game is designed for dedicated shooter fans. The presentation is an improvement over the original game, with painstakingly designed environments, a zippy frame rate, cool visual effects (particularly the laser beams) and a comprehensible (if not-so-flashy) touch-screen display. A collection of energetic shooter themes help keep your blood pumping as you dodge the million-plus bullets.
What's nice about Nanostray 2 is that Shin'en actually listened to complaints from fans of the first game. The original is fun, but suffers slightly with a blatant touch-screen mechanism. The sequel improves upon this with three control styles to choose from, including a traditional style of play that doesn't involve the touch-screen whatsoever. If you liked the way the first game handled, though, you can still tap away to your heart's content. You'll probably stick with the effective Seeker weapon more than the other weapon options.
Adventure Mode is a decent place to start, but Nanostray 2 also offers a huge amount of extra content. Arcade mode returns, letting you go through cleared stages in any order. Challenge mode will please shooter enthusiasts, with 32 enemy-occupied stages to clear. Completing them unlocks four classic-style Simulator games, including high-tech variations of classic arcade faves as Qix and Breakout. You can also hook up with another gamer for Cooperative and Duel play. Considering the enormous difficulty level, it always helps to have a buddy tag along. Last but not least, the game supports Wi-Fi connection, so you can upload your high scores and keep an eye on the competition via interactive leaderboards. You can't play with a friend online, but this certainly beats nothing.
If you can't stand shooter games, Nanostray 2 isn't going to change your mind. However, if you can't let a day go by without dodging a few bullets and unleashing a super-bomb, this game is a delectable treat. Shin'en outdid itself in every department, including controls, presentation and the various modes. So what if it's hard? Swallow that pride and get ready to dish out the pain.
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