Shoot ‘em ups have a long history of being sci-fi adventures, but X-Out: Resurfaced sets itself apart by diving beneath the waves rather than launching into the stars. This PlayStation 5 release, a modern revival of the 1989 Rainbow Arts classic (making us wonder if we’ll see Z-Out: Resurfaced next), maintains the spirit of the original while bringing notable enhancements. Developed by KRITZELKRATZ 3000 and published by ININ, this remake refines the side-scrolling action with updated visuals, a reimagined soundtrack, and gameplay adjustments that make it more accessible while keeping its old-school challenge intact.
The core premise remains straightforward: players pilot a submarine to stop an alien invasion brewing in the ocean depths. Narrative takes a backseat to gameplay, which is typical for the genre, but the underwater setting helps X-Out: Resurfaced feel distinct. One of the game’s major hooks is its shop system, allowing players to purchase and customize their submarines before heading into battle. This level of customization adds depth, as different load-outs significantly impact gameplay. Players can buy additional submarines, essentially serving as extra lives, which offers a strategic layer often absent from more linear shoot ‘em ups.
Gameplay remains largely faithful to the original, retaining its side-scrolling, enemy-dodging intensity while adding refinements. The controls are tight and responsive, with the left stick or D-pad handling movement, face buttons activating primary and secondary weapons, and shoulder buttons allowing speed adjustments. While intuitive, the game remains punishing, especially since colliding with the environment means instant death. The health bar provides some breathing room, but the lack of continues means failure often leads back to the main menu, a design choice that may frustrate those unused to 80s arcade-era difficulty levels.
One of the biggest draws of this remake is its visual overhaul. The pixel art of the original has been completely redrawn, featuring high-resolution sprites with added particle and lighting effects that bring the underwater world to life. Enemy designs, explosions, and environmental details shine in modern fidelity while still feeling true to the game’s roots. The eight levels remain varied, each packed with enemies and hazards that test reflexes and memorization.
Accompanying the revamped visuals is a reworked soundtrack by the legendary Chris Hülsbeck, who not only remastered his original compositions but also contributed six brand-new tracks. The energetic synth-driven score perfectly complements the action, pushing players forward through increasingly chaotic encounters. The audio design, from weapon effects to enemy explosions, is crisp and satisfying, rounding out the presentation.
Beyond its single-player experience, X-Out: Resurfaced includes a local co-op mode, allowing two players to tackle the game together. This addition provides a welcome option for those looking to share the challenge, making the high difficulty a little more manageable with a second set of weapons in play. The inclusion of a Mirror Mode, which flips level layouts for a fresh experience, further extends replayability.
However, the game’s adherence to classic design principles can be a double-edged sword. While the shop system is a great feature, the inability to continue from checkpoints and the unforgiving nature of environmental collisions might deter modern players. Those looking for a more accessible experience can utilize preconfigured load-outs or even cheat codes, but the core difficulty remains a defining aspect of the game.
Overall, X-Out: Resurfaced successfully brings a long-lost shoot ‘em up into the modern era without compromising its identity. The visual and audio enhancements make it a compelling revival, while its gameplay offers both nostalgic appeal and fresh challenges. While some of its old-school mechanics might alienate newcomers, shoot ‘em up veterans will appreciate the game’s depth, challenge, and customization. Whether you’re revisiting a classic or discovering it for the first time, this underwater battle is worth diving into.
Score: 7.2/10
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