More akin to Robotron than some of the more recent efforts to meld the dual stick shooter with more cerebral genres – such as Alienation’s blend of RPG and dual stick shooter – Assault Android Cactus wastes no time whatsoever in pumping the action right up to 11. I don’t really have an excuse for missing the game, but I’ve played it now, and I’m glad I have, because it doesn’t disappoint on any level. Secondly, it’s an Aussie-developed game, and I do like supporting my local game makers wherever possible. I hadn’t played Assault Android Cactus until its release on Nintendo Switch, which is a double whammy of “how did you miss this one?!?” Firstly, it’s a dual stick shooter, and every time it has been released on a new platform I had heard nothing but praise for it.

I’m terrible at SHMUPS and the like, but give me a good dual stick shooter and I’m in my element. From right back with Robotron 2084, right through to the likes of Geometry Wars, dual stick shooters have been my go-to for extreme twitch action. This will surprise a fair few people, but I’m actually quite a big fan of dual stick shooters.

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