Graze Counter: A Detailed Comparison Review

Released on July 28, 2017, Graze Counter brings a bright, exciting take on the shoot‑’em‑up style. It blends quick, intense shooting sections with a smart counterattack feature. Below, we break down every part of the game. From its plot and controls to its look and sound—and see how it stacks up against other favorites in the genre.

Storyline and Setting

Set in the 23rd century, Graze Counter tells the story of a few brave pilots facing off against a rogue virtual network called EDEN. Instead of just pure action, the game adds tension: 2.4 million civilians are trapped in cyberspace and need rescue. While it’s not as big in scale as blockbuster sci‑fi stories, this setup gives the game its own unique feel compared to standard arcade shooters.

Gameplay Mechanics and Innovations

  • Bullet Grazing and Charging

    • The main hook is the Graze Counter Gauge. When you barely dodge enemy bullets (known as “grazing”), you build up energy. Use that energy for powerful counterattacks. This risk‑and‑reward setup pushes you to play carefully but boldly, something you don’t see as often in similar games.

  • Fighter Choices

    • You can pick from eight fighters, each with its own strengths. From the all‑round Type‑1 to the expert‑only SP‑04, you get to try different styles. Other shooters may lean heavily on power‑ups or give you just one ship. Graze Counter’s varied lineup keeps you coming back to test new tactics.

  • Extra Modes and Difficulty

    • With five stages, three difficulty levels, a tutorial, mission mode, and a timed boss rush, the game welcomes both beginners and arcade veterans. This wide range of options makes it stand tall among titles that aim to blend ease of entry with deep challenges.

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Look and Sound

The game uses pixel art with an anime vibe that hits the sweet spot between retro and modern. While it doesn’t push graphics tech to the limit, the clean shapes and smooth moves bring back the thrill of ’90s shooters with a fresh twist. The soundtrack changes with the action, pumping up the heat when you need it—much like in other sci‑fi shooters, but done here with extra flair that pulls you deeper into the fight.

How It Compares

  • Tactical Depth: Like the Touhou series and other indie hits, fast reflexes and smart movement are key. But Graze Counter adds its counter‑attack system and “break” mode for a strategy layer you rarely see today.

  • Risk vs. Reward: Most bullet‑hell games focus only on dodging. Here, pulling off precise moves fuels your counterattacks, letting you turn the tables in style.

  • Varied Cast: Whereas many shooters stick to one hero or a few tweaks, each pilot here has a distinct playstyle. That variety boosts both replay value and the room for strategy.

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User Reviews and Overall Impact

With a 98% positive score from 205 reviews, players love its clear but tough play, fun modes, and sharp visuals. Some note that the learning curve can feel steep at first—a common hurdle in the genre—but most agree it’s worth the effort. This praise shows how indie teams can mix nostalgia with fresh ideas, pushing shoot‑’em‑ups toward richer, risk‑reward gameplay.

Final Thoughts

In short, Graze Counter stands out by pairing classic arcade fun with a modern twist. Its grab-you story and wide range of ships, plus the mix of careful play and bold strikes, keep it feeling new even against its peers. Whether you’re a patient survivor type or a completionist who hunts every secret, Graze Counter delivers a deeply satisfying ride that keeps the shoot‑’em‑up genre moving forward.

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Add Graze Counter to your Steam collection!