A Review of The Fun Run & Gun Shooter Orion Haste

Orion Haste is a thrilling run-and-gun video game that pays homage to classics like Contra while infusing its own unique flair. Released on March 15, 2024, by Ratalaika Games alongside Viridino Studios & Forsteri Studios, Orion Haste has quickly garnered attention for its intense action and nostalgic appeal.

Set against the backdrop of the Orion constellation, players are thrust into the role of an elite human soldier stationed at the Beta-Orionis Military Base (BOMB), humanity’s last line of defense in the region. The narrative unfolds with the base under siege by the Ximpeti, an alien species determined to destroy the station’s oxygen supply, a critical resource for human survival in space.

The game’s story, while straightforward, sets the stage for the adrenaline-pumping gameplay that follows. Players navigate through seven challenging levels, each with its own set of objectives and obstacles. From the industrial-themed Landing Site to the climactic showdown in the castle, Orion Haste offers a variety of environments that keep the gameplay fresh and engaging.

Graphically, Orion Haste boasts pixel art that is both aesthetically pleasing and reminiscent of the genre’s golden age. The character designs and environments are detailed, and the animation is fluid, contributing to an immersive experience.

Gameplay-wise, Orion Haste sticks to the tried-and-true formula of the run-and-gun genre. Players will find themselves leaping across platforms, dodging enemy fire, and unleashing a barrage of bullets to clear each stage. The game introduces modern quality-of-life improvements, such as responsive controls and checkpoints, making it accessible to newcomers without sacrificing the challenge that veterans crave.

The boss battles are a particular highlight, featuring impressive designs and patterns that require quick reflexes and strategic thinking to overcome. These encounters are not only visually striking but also serve as tests of the player’s skills, marking the culmination of each level’s challenges.

However, Orion Haste is not without its shortcomings. Critics have pointed out the game’s lack of innovation in storytelling and mechanics. While the core gameplay is solid, there is a sense that the game could have pushed the envelope further to stand out in a crowded market2. Additionally, the absence of extra modes and features, including multiplayer options, is felt, limiting the game’s replayability.

Final Thoughts

Orion Haste is a commendable effort that captures the essence of run-and-gun games. It’s a love letter to the genre that will satisfy those looking for a dose of high-octane action and nostalgia. Despite its flaws, Orion Haste is a game that’s hard to dislike and is worth checking out for fans of the genre.