DRAINUS is a side-scrolling shoot 'em up (shmup) game developed by Team Ladybug and WSS playground, published by PLAYISM. It features unique gameplay mechanics like bullet absorption and reflection, set in a sci-fi universe where you control a ship named "Drainus" to combat the oppressive Kharlal Empire. Its pixel art style and dynamic gameplay have been praised for blending classic shmup elements with innovative twists.
Hatred by Destructive Creations - Strategy Guide
Plot
The story revolves around Irina, who, along with her father, is enslaved by the Kharlal Empire. Her father suffers from a disease called "Planetary Compatibility Disorder" that requires treatment on Earth. Irina steals the Drainus, a powerful ship capable of absorbing enemy energy bullets, to fight back against the Empire, aiming to save her father and potentially her sister, Layla, a commander in the Empire's forces. Time travel is involved, with a character named Ghenie coming from the future to aid in preventing a devastating war.
Strategies for Playing DRAINUS
•Use of Reflector: The Reflector is key. Absorb enemy shots to charge counterattacks. Use this ability strategically to manage different bullet patterns. Balance between absorbing and attacking; you can't absorb indefinitely, so timing is crucial.
•Energy Management: Absorbed energy can be used to enhance your ship's capabilities. Choose upgrades wisely depending on the stage or boss you're facing.
•Upgrade Selection: Homing Missiles, Reflective Lasers, and Omni-directional Shields are among the options. Tailor your build to your play style or the challenge at hand.
•Difficulty Adjustment: The game offers multiple difficulty levels. Start on Easy or Normal to get a feel, then challenge yourself with Hard for a true test of skill.
•Survival Tactics: Learn enemy patterns. Some attacks can't be absorbed, so you'll need to dodge or use your shields.
•Scoring: If you're into high scores, focus on not dying (continues might reset your score), and maximize your use of the Reflector for bonus points.
Development Innovations
•Bullet Absorption Mechanic: This unique system where energy bullets can be absorbed to fuel your attacks adds a strategic layer to combat not often seen in shmups.
•Customization: The ability to upgrade and customize your ship's capabilities is a fresh take, offering different strategies for each playthrough.
•Dual Timelines: The narrative features revisiting stages in a "Deja Vu" mode with altered challenges, enhancing replay value.
Basic Step-by-Step Walkthrough
1.Tutorial: Master the basics of moving, shooting, and using the Reflector.
Stage Progression:
2.Stage 1-6: Learn to use your basic weapons and the Reflector.
3.Boss Fights: Each stage ends with a boss; use absorbed energy to counterattack effectively.
Energy Upgrades:
4.After stages, spend energy on upgrades from the shop. Experiment with different builds.
Deja Vu Stages:
5.These stages are revisited versions of previous ones but with increased difficulty. Use your knowledge to navigate them better.
Final Confrontation:
6.The last stages and bosses require a mastery of all your learned skills and strategies.
Support
•Steam Community: Engage with guides, discussions, and user reviews on the game's Steam page for tips, tricks, and community support.
•Forums: Look for dedicated shmup forums or sites like Shmups Wiki for detailed guides and community strategies.
Game Tips
•Controller vs. Keyboard: Some players prefer the precision of a keyboard, while others enjoy the feel of a controller. Experiment to see what suits you.
•Practice Mode: Use any available practice or replay features to learn enemy patterns without the pressure of losing lives.
•Save Energy: Don't spend all your energy immediately after a stage. Sometimes, holding onto it for a boss can be beneficial.
•Learn from Mistakes: Each death is a lesson. Analyze what went wrong and adjust your strategy accordingly.
DRAINUS stands out for its imaginative gameplay mechanics and engaging narrative, providing both a challenge and entertainment for shmup fans and newcomers alike.
