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There isn't much point in regurgitating the scenario of this one; if you've never heard of Xevious then I hope you had a good stay on Saturn. So has the ST version of the coin-op classic been worth the wait?

Well, there are two kinds of conversion. Those that are identical to the original ST Arkanoid for example - possibly the most perfect conversion ever. Then there are those that, due to technical restrictions, attempt to recreate the atmosphere, gameplay, etc, of the original without being a pixel perfect carbon copy.

Most conversions fall into the latter category, which sadly is very much the case here. Sad because one is left with the impression that the programmers have been less than diligent in their attempts to recreate the colour, gameplay, and the generally frenetic atmosphere responsible for the original Xevious success.

The main offenders are airborne targets and bullets that are insipid in colour and therefore difficult to see against a rather disappointing background.

Also, why discriminate against people who prefer the mouse? It would have taken no time at all to include a mouse control option making use of both the buttons, one for shooting, the other for bombing.

Although fun to play for a while, Xevious is an altogether rather flat experience, lacking the punch and addictive qualities of the original game.