Ever since Smash TV, a lot of devs have been trying to perfect the art of the twin-stick shooter, with the left stick set aside for movement and the right stick for directional shooting. And there have been many great examples in the genre since that time. But very few have had that “hook” when it comes to original, creative design. But that’s where Bartlow’s Dread Machine comes in.
Produced by Tribetoy and Beep Games, Bartlow is a twin-stick shooter with a strategic hook. You’re basically an agent in the old-school days, trying to rescue President Roosevelt (remember him?) from sinister forces. But you do so on tracks, as the whole thing is laid out like a toy grid. That means you can move around, but there’s some limitations to the movement.
However, you can shoot whichever direction you like, so you can strategically place your agent wherever you wish and let loose on the bad guys before they get close enough to pulverize you.
It takes a slight bit of getting used to, but Machine’s creative storytelling and intricate gameplay goes levels above most other twin-stick shooters. And that truly makes it stand out.
Anyone Say Steampunk?
One thing you’ll notice about Bartlow’s Dread Machine is its Steampunk style approach to the classic era. It’s got plenty of references that make it kind of neat, especially when it comes to the game’s story. And its arcade-style design is also quite throwback, operating on rails like several classic arcade games from the 50’s. (Yes, they were around during that time, just very limited compared to today’s fare.)
The design is very inspired, channeling this Steampunk like approach while also working quite well with its side-scrolling format. The visuals really stand out, especially for an indie game like this one. Sometimes it can be hard to tell where enemies are depending on item placement, but it’s not too much of a struggle, so you can get right back to the shooting.
I was also a fan of the boss layouts, which are very cool, albeit a bit too easy compared to what we’ve seen in other games. Still, the way they blow up and try to come up with secondary attacks is very cool.
On top of that, the classic music style is excellent. There’s not much voicework to speak of (literally), but it’s fine, as the sound effects really deliver that old-school approach.
And there’s good variety with the characters as well. You’ll unlock a few as you go about the game, including a variation of Nicola Tesla who, surprise, brings a powerful electric weapon into the picture. That adds a good amount of replay value, along with the mounting challenge that the game brings in its later levels.
Lots To Do… and Shoot
For a twin-stick shooter, Bartlow’s Dread Machine is surprisingly loaded with replay value.
You’ll find a variety of weapons to unlock and use here, though some – like the shotgun – are certainly better than others. Still, the operations run smoothly enough that you’ll have no trouble plowing through enemy agents. I’m also a fan of the defensive strategies, which involve setting yourself on the right piece of track so that you’re not necessarily hit by everything enemies thrown at you.
Plus there’s a neat customization angle, where you can doll up your character with a number of items, however you see fit. Some also unlock over the course of the game, which adds replay value. And with over 50 guns available, you’re going to be busy for some time.
Again, the challenge can waiver a bit, especially with boss battles. But there’s just enough content to dig into to make Bartlow’s Dread Machine worth your time.
An Acquired Taste, But a Good One
If you’re not necessarily into the Steampunk theme, Machine might not be for you. This game definitely relies on old-school design and it shows. However, if you’re looking for something inventive and sharp in the twin-stick shooter genre, this is a good amount of fun. Be sure to check it out when it drops today for PC and Xbox One!
