Let’s get one thing straight right off the bat here: the game is pronounced “Twelve Zeal” not “Shi Zeal” as I pronounced it during the recording! Ack. Sorry, guys!

Anyway, XIIZeal is a new PC port of XIIStag, an arcade shoot ’em up that made its debut in Japan way back in 2002. Since then, the game has received several ports over the years, but this one, released on June 5, is the latest and most up-to-date. The music holds up very well, and the graphics have a sleek look that harkens back to the late 1990s and early 2000s. The graphics are fully scalable on modern displays, too, so that really helps.

To me, the game was reminiscent of classics like R-Type, Xevious, and 1942 (and I’m sure countless other games along this vein), and it was a blast to play. It’s tough, though, so be warned! It’s also one of those games where once you get a Game Over, that’s it – you have to start all over again.

The game is currently available on Steam for just $11.99 USD, and honestly, if you like these types of games, I think it’s a good deal. I had a lot of fun with it, and I’m sure a lot of you will too!

[Disclaimer: A review code was provided for me to review this game.]