Graze Counter GM

Graze Counter GM sounds like a simulator of a store's general manager selling feed to goats. That's not what the game is, but without prior knowledge of this seemingly established series, one could only speculate! The title is a classic bullet hell game and another vertical-scrolling shooter still popular in Japan. So here we are with a western release, but is it any different?

The game separates itself from the genre copy-paste template by saying it encourages recklessness. It's an exciting take considering many of these titles require pinpoint movements to overcome the fast-scrolling obstacles. But regardless, it's been a while since I've played a bullet hell game, so Graze Counter GM could be the title to reignite interest in the genre.

Over the Counter

If you need a refresher on what a bullet hell game is, these titles are fast-moving environments forcing players to dodge and initiate attacks at lightning speed. Japanese versions of the genre typically feature arcade-style visions, vertical scrolling, and an intense difficulty curve as gameplay progresses. And yes, that's what Graze Counter GM features, and it doesn't look too different than any other similar title.

The story is nonsensical, but it's usually irrelevant in titles like these. The real point of interest is how long you can survive this persistent onslaught of enemies. Players will control a starship with an arsenal of weaponry, while some will allow you to get reckless with your attacks. You'll charge up these epic combat tools by getting close to enemy bullets, forcing you to live on the edge to succeed.

I'll give them that; the danger mechanics are impressive and translate well into a genre that usually feels stale. But are there any other redeeming or intriguing factors driving core gameplay? Not really; Graze Counter GM does feel standard outside of the 'graze counter' mechanics. Visuals are what you'd get in an arcade machine, the narrative isn't particularly compelling, and the gameplay does get repetitive.

The retention factor comes from the cognitive challenges Graze Counter GM provides. The game gets hard, and it's easy to see how a subset of players will enjoy how brutal the gameplay can get. It's what will appeal to most who decide to invest in this game but likely won't be sticking with any casual players looking for a fun ride, shooting up a few enemies here and there.

Just Grazing

It should be evident by now that Graze Counter GM is a bullet hell game designed for enthusiasts, showcasing a great mechanic for the genre, but it might be irrelevant for many. It's decent gameplay, but almost the same as all the other titles in the scene. Think of the Metal Slug series, churning the same shoot-em-up year upon year, and that's the feeling behind Graze Counter GM.

Round-Up - Pros & Cons

Pros:

• The recklessness mechanics are creative for the genre
• A challenging shoot-em-up game
• Lots of competitiveness with the leaderboards

Cons:

• Casual players may struggle
• Most of the game feels like a copy-paste genre job
• Little in the way of narrative