OTXO Key Art

OTXO: A Thrilling Bulletstorm Game – PC Review

As a writer who appreciates nostalgia and sentimentality, I’m constantly delighted when a game successfully merges the best of the past with the excitement of the present. OTXO accomplishes precisely that. This contemporary spin on the timeless classic Hotline Miami exemplifies how to take the essential components that made a game exceptional and expand upon them in ways that generate a fresh and exhilarating experience. With its exceptional combination of bullet-time mechanics and top-down shooter action, OTXO offers both familiarity and innovation.

OTXO is a riveting, top-down shooter designed to push players to their limits and is not for the faint of heart. It’s important to note that the game’s depiction of extreme violence can make it unsuitable for some, particularly those who are sensitive to graphic depictions of brutality. The game’s portrayal of gruesome, bloody murders may prove to be overwhelming for some players, and it’s not advisable for children or individuals who are easily disturbed by such content.

Nevertheless, the game’s violent nature also contributes to its allure for many players. Its raw intensity immerses players in its world and tests their ability to survive in a harsh and merciless setting. It’s fast-paced action and thrilling gunplay provides an exhilarating experience from start to finish. However, it’s crucial for players to be aware of the game’s content before delving into it.

OTXO Screenshot 3
In-game Screenshot

“The protagonist’s memory is blank, yet his mission is clear: retrieve his beloved.”

In OTXO, you assume the role of an unnamed protagonist who has entered an inexplicable mansion in search of his lost love. As you play, you’ll delve deeper into the mansion’s secrets, encountering new challenges and allies while battling enemies in unique areas. The protagonist’s memory is blank, yet his mission is clear: retrieve his beloved.

As previously mentioned, the game’s enemies resemble those from Hotline Miami but with a twist – they are equally aggressive and unpredictable, wielding both guns and melee weapons. However, their bullets leave a visible trail, adding an additional layer of challenge to the gameplay. OTXO also incorporates roguelite elements, meaning each playthrough is distinct. As you progress, you’ll obtain new weapons and items, but if you die, you’ll lose all of your progress and have to restart.

Unparalleled Replayability

A crucial aspect of a game’s worth is if you can keep playing it and never get bored. Players want to feel that they are receiving value for their money and can enjoy the game repeatedly. This is where OTXO excels. One of the standout features of the game is its immense replayability. With eight distinct areas to explore and a randomly generated layout of rooms, no two playthroughs of the game will be identical. This implies that players will have ample reasons to revisit the game. They can experiment with different weapons and abilities, try out new tactics, and see how far they can progress.

In addition to the randomly laid out selection of rooms, the game’s replayability is further enhanced by the inclusion of more than 150 meticulously crafted rooms. Each of these rooms is designed to present a distinct challenge, so players will always encounter new obstacles. They could be facing waves of foes, navigating treacherous terrain, or cracking intricate puzzles. Moreover, the game’s randomised layout ensures that players cannot rely on rote memorisation of the levels to advance. They must stay vigilant and adjust to the ever-changing surroundings, which keeps the gameplay stimulating and captivating, regardless of how many times they’ve played.

OTXO Screenshot 2
In-game Screenshot

“It adds to the overall experience of feeling like a true badass in this murder ballet.”

To survive the perilous challenges of OTXO, players must master the Focus system. This unique feature allows players to slow down time and react to enemies and obstacles with greater precision. With Focus, players can perform incredible moves such as dodging bullets and taking down multiple enemies with ease.

The Focus system adds a strategic layer to the gameplay, enabling players to make more informed decisions and execute complex maneuvers. Activating Focus allows the player to carefully plan their moves, dodge incoming bullets, and take more precise shots. This feature is particularly useful in challenging situations where the player is surrounded by enemies or needs to navigate through obstacles. Additionally, the Focus feature provides players with a greater sense of control over the game, enabling them to adapt quickly to the randomly generated levels of OTXO.

The game’s developer has crafted a captivating soundtrack that complements the game’s fast-paced, action-packed gameplay, enhancing your immersion into its brutal, noir-esque world. The gritty, pulse-pumping soundtrack perfectly complements the player’s journey through various unique areas, as they cut through enemies and form alliances with new allies. It adds to the overall experience of feeling like a true badass in this murder ballet.

OTXO is a game that seems to revel in its own violence, without providing any meaningful commentary on it, and to its credit, it succeeds. With the game releasing at US$14.99 on Steam and a 10% launch discount, you’re definitely getting bang for your buck.

*Disclaimer: Reviewed on PC; code was provided by the publisher.

OTXO Screenshot 4
In-game Screenshot
OTXO Key Art
OTXO Review
Summary
OTXO is a must-play for anyone who loves a good roguelite shooter. With its massive replayability, customisation options, and thrilling gameplay, it's sure to keep you coming back for more. So, put on your headphones, grab your favourite weapon, and get ready to kick down some doors and annihilate some enemies in this unforgettable game.
Pros
Intense and engaging top-down shooter
Unique storyline
Massive replayability
Gritty Pulse-Pumping Soundtrack
Cons
Incredible Violence
9
Great