Truxton Extreme

Truxton Extreme is an absolute blast from the past, bringing back a decades-old franchise with an excellent new coat of paint and a killer level of challenge that will push you but isn’t unmanageable. No, this probably isn’t a great SHMUP for those who are totally new to the genre, as its unforgiving nature might put you off these games entirely, but for fans of the original or those who have enjoyed similar games in the past, this is a must-play.

Truxton Extreme is not only an outstanding shmup, but it also sets a new benchmark for how to bring back cult series of the genre into the current age. Very high marks on graphical effects, sound design, and soundtrack along with spot-on gameplay makes it easy to recommend adding this one to your Switch 2 library as soon as possible. Both veteran shmup players and newcomers alike will find much to enjoy in this package. You also get an outstanding digital graphic novel to go along with your game. Toaplan’s legacy is in the good hands of Masahiro Yuge, and if this is the shape of things to come, I couldn’t be more excited for future Tatsujin projects.

With a combination of great looks and a distinctive flow of play, Truxton Extreme has a great base of classic arcade shooting that it then builds on, and throws in some story beats for good measure.

Truxton Extreme is a fantastic shmup with a killer soundtrack, but it absolutely won't hesitate to blow you up over and over again.

The 3D never clutters, and a wealth of game modes means there's something for everyone, but underneath it all, Truxton Extreme remains a traditional retro shooter.

Truxton Extreme is a very solid, classically designed shmup that impresses with responsive mechanics, a good challenge, and satisfying combat, yet disappoints with repetitive levels and the underutilized potential of its three campaigns.

Although this type of genre is more niche than others, it represents a major step forward for a franchise that managed to reach the top during the 1990s. This third entry takes everything that worked in the original games, improves upon it, and brings back the same sense of unfairness we experienced in old-school arcades. While several aspects could still be improved, the game delivers on its promises, whether in its visuals, music, atmosphere, or, most importantly, its gameplay.