HELLSCREEN

Shooting backward to move forward in this sick FPS

- Ted Litchfield

When I first read the words "FPS with a rearview mirror", I figured it was just a neat trick: a game having some yuks with old rendering tricks like the mirrors in Deus Ex or Mario 64, with the real meat and potatoes of the shooter still having to carry the day.

Playing Hellscreen immediately put those thoughts to bedthis isn't a gimmick, it's the essential mechanic of this new retro shooter, while the game's twisty levels and unique progression prove that this mechanic isn't the only trick solo developer Jamie D has up his sleeve.

Hellscreen gives you a mini, lower-res screen in the upper quadrant of your view at all times. Left click fires forward, while right click fires backwards and does quadruple damage while you're in motion. This encouraged me to primarily play in 'strafing runs', zooming past enemies while aiming behind as I went. It lends Hellscreen a rhythm all its own, and the game also makes some enemies and secrets only visible in the second screen.