*Updated review*
I absolutely loved the original, a great little arcade game with fantastic gameplay and an amazing soundtrack. Super Bit Blaster XL is similar however adds a number of interesting new gameplay mechanics. I initially had issues with the new control scheme which, while I am sure will be the preferred option for newcomers, was incompatible with my muscle memory from the older game. The developer was great and swiftly added a classic control mode to the beta version which works great.

To you out there who have not played the original game, the essential goal of this game is to survive as long as you can against an ever increasing wave of asteroids, ships and black holes. You can collect power ups which are basically a range of more powerful weapons. These ranges from triple shot, to a short powerful laser, to a bouncy bullet. You can also collect coins which allow you to unlock better ships, as well as extra lives and screen clearing bombs.

This new version brings with it improved graphics and new enemies including a challenging boss type enemy which will appear if you are doing well. The familiar ships from the last version have some upgrades including single and even double shields as well as less predictable firing patterns making them much more challenging. Enemies also come in from all 4 sides and ammo appears to run out quicker.

Overall both versions of this game are great and are my go to time waster if I have a few minutes. This is certainly the more challenging version and I look forward to trying to get top of the leaderboard!

*Updated review* I absolutely loved the original, a great little arcade game with fantastic gameplay and an amazing soundtrack. Super Bit Blaster XL is similar however adds a number of interesting new gameplay mechanics. I initially had issues with the new control scheme which, while I am sure will be the preferred option for newcomers, was incompatible with my muscle memory from the older game. The developer was great and swiftly added a classic control mode to the beta version which works great. To you out there who have not played the original game, the essential goal of this game is to survive as long as you can against an ever increasing wave of asteroids, ships and black holes. You can collect power ups which are basically a range of more powerful weapons. These ranges from triple shot, to a short powerful laser, to a bouncy bullet. You can also collect coins which allow you to unlock better ships, as well as extra lives and screen clearing bombs. This new version brings with it improved graphics and new enemies including a challenging boss type enemy which will appear if you are doing well. The familiar ships from the last version have some upgrades including single and even double shields as well as less predictable firing patterns making them much more challenging. Enemies also come in from all 4 sides and ammo appears to run out quicker. Overall both versions of this game are great and are my go to time waster if I have a few minutes. This is certainly the more challenging version and I look forward to trying to get top of the leaderboard!