| Robotron X | |
| Developer: | Midway Games |
| Released: | PlayStationWindows |
| Genre: | Multidirectional shooter |
| Modes: | Single-player, multiplayer |
| Platforms: | PlayStation, Windows |
Robotron X is a multidirectional shooter video game released by Midway Games in November 1996 for the PlayStation. It is a 3D version of the 1982 dual-stick shooter . GT Interactive published a Microsoft Windows port in 1997. A Nintendo 64 version was released in 1998 as Robotron 64.
In addition to the graphical update, the game includes new audio and multiple camera angles.[1] [2]
While the game features similar gameplay as the original, it was not as well-received,[3] though reviews for it ranged from mixed to positive.[4] [5] [6] [7] Authors Andrew Rollings and Ernest Adams considered the moving camera in the 3D environment a negative update. They felt the original format — an overhead perspective of a single screen — presented the player with all the necessary information and relied on the player's skill. The moving camera angle, however, obscured areas of the playing field and could result in the player being shot by an enemy that suddenly appeared. Some critics cited this as the game's one major flaw.[6] [7] Vince echoed similar statements, stating that the gameplay suffered from the loss of important aspects from the original.[8] Rollings and Adams, however, attribute the fad of classic video game remakes in the late 1990s in part to Robotron Xs release, though at the time of that release it was believed this fad was already in place.[4]
Next Generation reviewed the PlayStation version of the game, rating it three stars out of five.[6]
Aaron Curtiss for the Los Angeles Times recommended the game for fans of the original, but thought that others would decry it as "mindless".[9]
Bro' Buzz for GamePro was complimentary to its gameplay and graphics.[10]
Malcolm Mayhew for the Fort Worth Star-Telegram gave the game 2 1/2 stars, saying that the game had good idea, but bad execution.[11]