Riddled Corpses EX Review

"Twin Stick Advanced"

Campaign

Riddled Corpses EX is a very interesting twist on the twin stick shooter having it be an almost over the top side scroller, but at a slight tilt. I'm trying my best to describe it as visually it works well while being fresh in that regard. This is one of those games where death only makes you stronger so it's all about dying, earning coins in the process and then becoming better. Typically I'm annoyed by games that do this, but you legitimately feel stronger with every run as your guns blaze across the battlefield faster and faster with each playthrough attempt. It's great as you're becoming more efficient while learning strategies as to why you died the first time around.

There are multiple levels and areas to work through with enemies and bosses lining the street. When you die you need to restart that segment which I suppose could be frustrating, but you see the impact of your last run the next time which is satisfying. As mentioned the levels are packed, varying as you progress and challenging with new bosses that pop in at times to mix it up. This can all be done in two player coop if you'd like as well. There are other modes too such as Arcade and these alter the action up a bit while offering extra value.

Gameplay

I really loved the visual in Riddled Corpses EX as they're gruesome, yet still fun to see in action. The animations are fluid and the screen is filled to the brim with a variety of differing designs. On top of that there are ways to cause destruction and power-ups to throw into the mix. This keeps things fresh and while perhaps overwhelming at times, it got better as I improved my character. There are multiple characters to play with differing stats. The enemies really do offer unique challenges every step of the way and I was impressed with their variety. This is continued with the environments as each section looks different in theme and layout. The pixel style works great here offering lots of extra depth and detail to the carnage.

The Conclusion

Riddled Corpses EX is an excellent twin stick shooter that does something different with the formula and piles on the enemies. Each level takes full advantage of the space with various creatures to battle and bosses to handle along the way. It plays completely fluidly and is smooth during combat. The whole die and come back mechanic works well here, usually I find it annoying yet they delivered it in a way that feels actually progressive. Every single time I died my guns or something was better to eliminate those enemies even quicker. It's almost like a time replay where I could see myself getting better and just punching through health bars. It can be a blast for local cooperative players too if a friend is present.

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Riddled Corpses EX Review on Xbox One X
Review Code Provided by Cow Cat Games

Rating Overall: 7.2