Return Alive is a 2D Vertically scrolling shooter that presents the action from above. It was released Nov 7, 2021 on Steam and has never been given away before on GOTD. Controls are arrow keys to move, Z and X keys to shoot, holding both Z+X down at the same time shoots straight up while pressing them individually shoots vertically at a 45 degree angle. This should be in some form of instructions included with the game. This game mainly relies on the ability to shoot while moving around at the same time to avoid the enemies around you. At times you can have several enemies firing at you from all angles, but is moderate for its difficulty. The number of enemies to pass the level is at the top left and when you get hit once this restarts the counter which some may or may not like. A boss at the end to kill to end the game, as well as weapon upgrade pick ups as you progress - these will look like cosmetics, a mirror and such. This game is apparently made from a gamemaker studio template so keep that in mind that its on the more simplistic side but fully playable, however there is no full screen mode or other options within the game such as turning off sound as usual.

To improve this games playability begin by adding a full set of instructions and enable users to play in full screen with other options if the template allows it. I guess if the game window is too small you can reduce your monitors resolution if you normally have your monitor set to say 1920x1080. Also, controlling the gun aiming would be much better if the mouse was used instead of using the Z and X keys potentially. The instructions should also tell what the powerups are and their functions. This one has an ending so feel free to play if you enjoy these type of shooters, but the game did not create the same enjoyment as a top level game, something like ikari warriors or the many capcom shoot em ups out there which might get someone to both buy and/or return to play again after the first time.

Rating: D+