Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved is an arcade like classic style shoot ‘em up-space combat game, and while sticking to it roots brings itself out of the 80s and into the 21st century: offering both the old school flavor, and the new age finesse (and also removing a lot of the buggy old school jankiness that would kill a new highscore, or gobble down quarters).
One big difference from older games like Space Invaders and Galaga, is that Retro Evolved makes use of more than just one dimension of movement. Rather than simply moving left and right at the bottom of the screen, players zip around in a large reactive matrix that shows the ripples of bullets, enemies, and even black holes pulling on and ripping the fabric of spacetime!
One part I really love about Retro Evolved is the dynamic soundtrack. It mixes the sound and gameplay in a fluid and enjoyable way: if a horde of enemies has spawned in and encircled you, the music slows and gives off the sound of something to be feared, an imposing song of your coming demise. But when you blast those suckers out of the sky, an overwhelming sound of triumph lets out telling you to ‘keep going!’. Another of my favorite parts about this game is their ‘bomb’ feature. Simply press the button to activate it and BOOM, a shockwave is sent through the level, vaporizing anything in its path, giving you a second to breathe, and silencing the music for a moment before it slowly fades back in.
And you will want to use those bombs time and time again, because with the wide variety of enemies, you will have to stay frosty or end up as space junk. Though it starts off simple, with basic enemies that just wander around and are one-shots, soon they will split into two smaller, harder to hit enemies. Then they start to actively avoid your bullets, and black holes that you must shoot until they are destroyed and will summon and suck in enemies, growing stronger, larger, and eventually exploding. There are also snakes which will quickly box you in, and even enemy spacecrafts that will quickly track you down and vanquish you if you are not the more skilled pilot.
While playing on the SymGym, I found the controls themselves are actually pretty tight for this game, arms control the direction you’re shooting, and feet for the direction of movement. While it took some time to adjust at first it's actually pretty easy to do all sorts of fancy maneuvers once you’ve got the hang of it. Not only is playing on the SymGym fun though, it actually got me working up a sweat, maybe part of it was the pressure of not crashing into enemies nor getting shot, but because it really was a workout. Overall I think Geometry Wars: Retro Evolved works really well on the SymGym, and I could see myself using this regularly as a workout strategy.
Can I buy one for my home?
Yes, SymGym can help you exercise at home. Please consult your health professional before starting a workout program.
Can I monitor my heart rate?
SymGym includes a sensor to monitor heart rate and oxygenation levels. SymGym can also receive heart rate information from a Bluetooth heart rate monitor.
Do I have to pay for the games?
Games are included as part of the SymGym System.
Is there a subscription fee?
There is no subscription fee. We do charge an annual maintenance fee for software updates and mechanical upkeep for our clinical partners.
How do I change the resistance?
SymGym adjusts the resistance based on your selected workout. We recommend discussing your workout choice with your physical therapist.
Are there preset workout programs?
Yes, SymGym's workout programs are designed by clinical experts to help with a variety of conditions.
Is there a preset workout program for my condition?
Yes, SymGym's workout programs are designed by clinical experts to help with a variety of conditions.
Who can see my workout and profile information?
SymGym takes your healthcare information security seriously. Only you, your therapist, and people you authorize will have access to your personal healthcare information.
Are the games difficult to learn?
No, SymGym's games are designed to focus on exercise and fun, but you will definitely progress though levels as you improve your fitness and condition.
How many games does SymGym have?
SymGym has a basic suite of engaging games and is constructing more games everyday to improve variety and therapies.
How long does SymGym take to install?
SymGym is an all in one complete unit. Plug it in, connect it to your WiFi system and it is ready to go.
Does it have a power cord?
Yes, it plugs in to a standard 110V outlet.
Does it adjust to fit me?
SymGym's seat adjusts to accommodate most patients.
When does SymGym tell me my strength and flexibility?
During the workout, SymGym can display your current strength and flexibility. At the end of each workout, SymGym shows your progress and can send progress reports to the therapist's EMR for charting.
What does the strength number mean?
SymGym measures the force output (N) of each limb. This can be compared over time to monitor your progress.
What does the flexibility number mean?
SymGym measures the range of motion output (degrees) of each limb. This can be compared over time to monitor your progress.
