20XX

Procedural generation is sometimes lambasted as a cheap alternative to intricate level design, and 20XX doesn't always do enough to break that stereotype. But despite its inconsistent level make-ups and underwhelming boss designs, 20XX is still an engrossing side-scroller that perfects the feeling of navigating dangerous, pitfall and enemy-filled stages.

20XX conjures a lot of feelings from yesteryear, bringing back the shoot-em-up platformers of old while adding new and interesting wrinkles to the formula. However, some of those wrinkles hinder the goal of creating a “classic” feel more than they foster it, as a lot of what made those older games great just cannot be found in a roguelike environment.

20XX offers a quick dose of Mega Man inspired gameplay that doesn’t disappoint in the slightest. The controls were clearly refined to be authentic and tight. What the game does lack, however, is content to come back to after mastering the quick 20XX runs. This doesn’t mean that 20XX is worth skipping out on, though. This endless retro shooter is worth checking out, especially if you love Mega Man X or just solid platforming in general.