It's missing that old-school charm, but it's a decent fill-in.
The music is charming as well, a collection of 8-bit ditties that sound like they would fit right in with the Capcom soundtracks of old. Whoever the composer is, I hope they give them more work, because they're going places. I can't say the same for the sound effects though – a little generic for my tastes.
While A.R.E.S. may not be as memorable a romp as Inafune's old Blue Bomber tales – the story is a forgettable mess and doesn't offer much of a conclusion – its platforming goodness and solid design make it worth a look, even with its shortcomings. Besides, you have little else to turn to on the 2D side scrolling front, aside from the classics you grew up with. Might as well bide your time with these gunners.
(Review code provided by Aksys Games.)
Score: 7.5 / 10
