ESCHATOS

First things first, to get the most important part out of the way: The soundtrack is GODLY.

Really good short game, with a TON of replayability between the modes and the encouragement to rack up points with each run, won or failed, to raise your level, as the more you play, the more leniency options you'll unlock to make the harder modes more possible even if you suck at shmups.

What I find particularly pleasing is how the different difficulty modes are balanced so that each step up really feels like "a different beast" It makes playing each of them a distinct experience that's fun in its own way.

The 2.5D graphics, exquisite music and cinematic camera work give a real sense of drama to the game.

Add into this the particular weapons loadout (the shield being the most notable part) correct use of which demands more than typical shmup tactics - and you've got quite a distinct experience.