MACROSS -Shooting Insight is the latest entry in the storied Macross franchise, bringing together characters and mechs from various series into a single shoot ’em up experience. Developed by BUSHIROAD GAMES and published by Red Art Games, it is available on PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch, but we are looking at the PS5 version.
Developer: BUSHIROAD GAMES
Publisher: Red Art Games
Release Date: 7 February 2025
Thanks to PR Hound and Red Art Games for the review code
Gameplay and Mechanics
At its core, Shooting Insight is a horizontally scrolling shoot ’em up, reminiscent of classic arcade titles. Players pilot iconic Valkyries through ten stages, each filled with waves of enemies and challenging bosses. The game offers three distinct gameplay styles: horizontally scrolling, vertically scrolling, and 360-degree shooting stages, providing variety and keeping the experience fresh.
A unique feature is the synchronization with songstresses during missions. Activating this synchronization grants various buffs, such as increased firepower, enhanced maneuverability, or reduced enemy fire speed, adding a strategic layer to the fast-paced action.
Story and Characters
The narrative is an original tale that unites pilots, songstresses, and characters from across the Macross timeline. Aboard the Battle 7, legendary ace pilots rally under the command of a Captain Maximilian Jenius to rescue the galaxy’s songstresses and restore peace. While the story serves as a backdrop for the action, it offers fan-favorite interactions and references that long-time followers will appreciate.
Visuals and Soundtrack
Visually, the game captures the essence of the Macross universe, with detailed mechs and vibrant backgrounds. The inclusion of fan-favorite songs from various Macross series enhances the experience, allowing players to use the power of music to gain an edge in battle.
Performance on PlayStation 5
On the PlayStation 5, Shooting Insight runs smoothly, with quick load times and stable frame rates. The DualSense controller’s haptic feedback adds a tactile dimension to the gameplay, making the shooting mechanics feel more immersive.
Final Thoughts
MACROSS -Shooting Insight– is a title that caters primarily to fans of the franchise, offering a blend of classic shoot ’em up gameplay with beloved characters and music. While it may not revolutionize the genre, it provides an enjoyable experience for those looking to relive the magic of Macross on modern consoles.
