Arcade Archives 2 XEVIOUS 3D/G brings the 1996 Namco arcade shooter to PlayStation 5 as a vertical scrolling action title. The game reimagines the classic Xevious formula with fully polygonal 3D graphics, varied camera angles, and additional weapons along with new enemy types. Players pilot the Solvalou spacecraft through seven distinct areas while fending off aerial and ground-based threats from the Xevious forces.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on precise shooting in a vertically scrolling environment rendered entirely in 3D. Air targets fall to standard shots while ground installations require a separate bombing attack, creating a layered approach to each stage. Diverse screen angles and dynamic camera work shift the perspective during play, adding visual variety to the seven areas that include a desert marked by a large geoglyph and a climactic space fortress.
New weapons expand tactical options beyond the original sprite-based Xevious, and fresh enemy characters appear throughout the campaign. The experience stays rooted in arcade traditions with progressive difficulty that rewards pattern recognition and quick reactions. Support for two players allows cooperative runs in the base game.
Modern conveniences integrate directly into the action without altering the fundamental challenge. Difficulty adjustments, screen settings, button remapping, rapid-fire toggles, and a rewind function help players navigate tougher sections while multiple save slots permit experimentation at any point.
Game Modes
Four distinct modes structure the available play sessions. Original Mode delivers the complete arcade experience with all the listed customization options and full access to the seven areas.
Hi Score Mode focuses on achieving the highest possible score in a single continuous run, encouraging repeated attempts to climb global leaderboards. Caravan Mode limits play to five minutes, shifting emphasis toward efficient scoring within the time constraint.
Time Attack Mode, introduced with the Arcade Archives 2 series, measures how quickly players can clear the entire game regardless of points accumulated. This mode suits those who prioritize speed and route optimization over high scores.
Online rankings integrate across the modes, letting participants compare results with players worldwide. Variable Refresh Rate support further aligns the presentation with the original arcade hardware behavior on compatible displays.
Visual and Technical Presentation
The polygonal shift from the 1983 original produces a distinctive 1990s aesthetic with Gouraud shading and morphing effects visible in environments and enemies. Sound design carries forward the series tradition with a techno-influenced score that underscores the action across all seven stages.
Faithful reproduction remains the priority, yet the package adds practical tools that extend play sessions. These include CRT-style filters in some configurations and the ability to adjust display parameters for modern televisions.
Is It Worth Playing?
Arcade Archives 2 XEVIOUS 3D/G targets enthusiasts of classic vertical shooters who value accurate arcade emulation paired with quality-of-life features. The addition of Time Attack Mode and VRR support broadens appeal for both score chasers and players seeking quicker completion runs.
Those familiar with the Xevious series or similar 1990s Namco shooters will recognize the core mechanics while appreciating the updated visuals and extra content. Newcomers may find the learning curve steep but manageable through the available settings and rewind option.
The release launched on PlayStation 5 alongside other platforms in September 2026 at a standard digital price point. Its focus on preservation and competition makes it a solid choice for anyone interested in revisiting or discovering this polygonal chapter of the Xevious lineage.
