Viral Reload EX can be an enjoyable shmup if you like the idea of mastering a series of bite-sized waves but it can also feel too fragmented.

Viral Reload EX keeps things simple, demonstrating that a dash mechanic can be almost enough to create tense, satisfying arcade action without power-ups or gimmicks. That minimalist approach is undermined by unforgiving restarts and a lack of meaningful rewards, but masochistic shoot 'em up fans who enjoy mastering the single mechanics could find enjoyment.

While the retro-shooter-meets-InnerSpace concept is at least fun, and the story that goes with it as amusing, there are simply too many great arcade shooters on the system to give this a pass.