Geometry Wars 3: Dimensions

A traditional, fast-paced shooter

Geometry Wars 3 is a twin-stick shooter, meaning you move your ship using a gamepad’s left stick, and use the right one to bring a hail of bullets upon enemies. You have to navigate all kinds of shapes and obstacles while under attack – 3D peanuts, tubes, spheres, mazes and more, each with different gameplay rules.

We mention a gamepad as it’s the only real way to play. Don't rely on a keyboard or mouse as you’ll struggle with the early levels, and later ones will be impossible. (PS3, PS4, Xbox One and 360 pads are supported.)

Dozens of ships and bullets test your dexterity, while your senses are bombarded with brightly-coloured objects and a thumping soundtrack. It’s brilliant fun if you like shooters such as Robotron and Smash TV.

The carefully designed mechanics are very addictive, and a leaderboard, co-op mode and online play give you a reason to keep bettering your score – and those of your friends. Progress unlocks upgradeable drones that hover around your ship and special attacks that quickly clear the screen – great in a tight spot.

Geometry Wars 3 is more a test of quick reactions and nimble fingers than deep thought and planning. But its deceptive simplicity hides a game that can take ages to master, and will no doubt lead to plenty of swearing when an unseen enemy ends your run for the umpteenth time. Orestis Bastounis

A fun shooter that mixes elements of old-school arcade shoot-’em-ups with plenty of new ideas.

The screen gets busy with enemies, bullets and power-ups, especially by the time you reach its later stages.