WTMG's Leo Faria: "Devil Engine doesn’t reinvent the tired wheel that is the bullet hell shooter market. That’s not an issue, it didn’t need to. The developers were aiming to deliver a tough-as-nails shooter that emulated the look and feel of the mid 90’s,and they passed the test with flying colors. This is one of the most entertaining shooters I’ve played in years and one which tested my sanity to its limits due to its insane difficulty. Given the fact I kept coming back to it, that either means the game was actually fun or that I’m a masochist. I’ll leave that up for debate."
The Osaka-based company finds itself under fire, accused of frequent mismanagement, poor communication, delayed royalty payments, and misuse of game assets. Meanwhile, its now-former CEO is accused of sexual misconduct, inappropriate behavior, and wantonly breaking NDAs. The accusations have now resulted in CEO Ben Judd exiting the company, and key member Ramachandran taking a reduced role.
Sometime in the future, mankind is nearly annihilated by an otherworldly force. In response, they developed an AI system known as the Devil Engine. With highly advanced weapons and faultless calculations, nothing in the entire universe can withstand its power. It was at this point that the humans realized they made a grave mistake. Not long after, the creation turned against its masters. All that remains now is Andraste, the sole ship that escaped the AI's clutches.
Frank at Hey Poor Player writes: "From its fantastic presentation to its lofty challenge, Devil Engine is a game that often humbled me but kept me coming back for more. Still, I have to say that those new to the shoot 'em up genre or averse to a hardcore challenge may want to get their bullet-dodging fix elsewhere."
