Nanostray

Nintendo exclusive

Nanostray is a vertical scrolling shooter video game for the Nintendo DS. Similar to many games in the genre, the user takes control of a futuristic spacecraft against a seemingly endless horde of enemies. A sequel to the game was released in 2008, entitled Nanostray 2.

Released: 19 July 2005
Platforms: Nintendo DS
Genres: Shoot 'em up
Developers: Shin'en Multimedia
Publishers: Majesco Entertainment
Modes: Multiplayer Single-player
Themes: Science fiction
Country: Germany
Age ratings: ESRB E PEGI 3

About

Nanostray is a vertically scrolling shooter for the Nintendo DS. The user takes control of a futuristic spacecraft against a horde of enemies. A sequel, Nanostray 2, was released in 2008.

Keywords

shoot 'em up
spaceship
flight
nanotechnology
amnesia
level selection
high score
boss fight
spiritual successor
unlockables
downloadable content
instant kill

Media

The articlegameplay, story, development, reception

Gameplay

Basic gameplay consists of first defeating waves of many small enemies and then greater, stronger enemies. When all enemies in a wave are destroyed, a blue powerup that restores the power weapon bar is released. Enemies can also release coins when destroyed, worth some points. At the end of each level there is a boss that represents the theme of the level.

The game has three difficulty settings; Normal, Advanced, and Expert. Each progressive level diminishes the lives, energy, continues, and smart bombs replenished after the player loses a life. The Nintendo DS touch screen is used for boss scanning, radar, and weapon management.

Reception

The game received "mixed or average reviews" according to the review aggregation website Metacritic. Most reviews focused on the impressive quality of the graphics. In Japan, where the game was ported and published by Taito under the name Danshaku (弾爵 -ダンシャク-) on January 26, 2006, Famitsu gave it a score of three sevens and one six, while Famitsu Cube + Advance gave it a score of two eights and two sevens.