Summary Tyrian is one of those games that we hope will inspire it's genre. On the surface it mimics most shoot-em-ups before it. However it adds many features that set it above it's competition. Unlike most shooters, Tyrian has a robust energy shield system that allows you to regenerate slowly depending on your energy consumption. Shoot non stop (as is the style in these types) and your shield won't be able to regenerate much. This brings a bit of strategy to your play style, and takes away the frustration that comes with the traditional one-hit-and-you're-dead shooters this game can be compared to. Tyrian also supports a fun upgrade system that has you trying to collect as many valuables as possible, and a unique cooperative experience not seen very often. Two player gaming can be on the same system (1P uses the mouse, 2P uses the keyboard) or played over the internet. The two ships can glide around separately or they can combine, at which point both can shoot while one player controls movement and the other controls special weapons. It's a neat design and the two can combine or separate at any time. The pixel colored graphics are a throw-back, and expertly done. The music isn't high tech, but it perfectly fits the environment of the game. The most difficult part of the game is that it requires a DOS emulation to run. However, this can be easily dealt with if you use OpenTyrian. The only other setback is the length of the game. At 4 levels, your interest may be piqued in a relatively short amount of time. Download Free Games to PC Rate PC Games for Free Screenshots - Click to Enlarge