TxK is a great game. We'll get that out there now, because clarifying the point could be as complicated and dizzying as this retro-themed arcade shooter's later levels. It could be great because of its recreation of the vector-tunnel style set in 1981 by its ancestors, Tempest and Tempest 2000.
You're in control of a ship, which looks a bit like an interstellar croissant, as it zips through an increasingly complex array of tunnels and planes. Your job is to blast the enemies coming your way before they detonate you, or drag you to your death.
You begin each level with only the ability to move about the tunnel's edge and fire a few bullets. As you pop enemies and grab powerups, your powers increase to include an AI drone, more lasers, and a jumping ability to dodge any foes who make it to your ledge. The game starts simply, but by even the 12th level things get manic and if you don't remember strangling the value out of your 20c at the arcade, you'll appreciate the value of your lives. You may even lose your wits trying to preserve them, and that's the only problem with the gameplay - this game can get too busy.
Maybe TxK is great because it's so irreverent. If you use your smartbomb to wipe the screen of enemies, you'll get a message "Eat electric death". That's as straight as the game plays it. You may see "you have won a nice cup of tea" or find you've earned a visit from the local vicar. Why? Who cares? It's funny and disruptive. The soundtrack, driven by 90s electro-beats that don't let a "game over" screen spoil the party, lets the side down with its dorky voice samples. It's surely meant to sound cheeky when a woman's voice gasps "yes, yes!" as your ship zooms through tunnels, but it comes off as gross.
TxK is great for the PS Vita. It brings the OLED screen to life with dazzling colours and animation that often surprises but rarely jars.
