Xenon 2000: Project PCF is a vertical-scrolling action-shooter created by The Bitmap Brothers for Windows and released in 2000. Conceived as a modern reinterpretation of *Xenon 2: Megablast*, it captures the essence of late-80s shoot-'em-up classics while adapting it with more detailed graphics, fluid animations, and a particularly intense pace.
The premise is straightforward: pilot a combat ship through a dangerous futuristic setting while destroying waves of alien ships, meteorites, and other obstacles. There is no complex narrative campaign or cast of developed characters; the game functions like an arcade mission where the primary goal is to advance, survive, and reach the end of the course. Its structure is highly compact—designed around a single level—yet it offers enough threats and shifting situations to put the player's reflexes to the test.
The ship moves freely across the screen while the environment scrolls automatically. Players must...
Xenon 2000: Project PCF is a vertical-scrolling action-shooter created by The Bitmap Brothers for Windows and released in 2000. Conceived as a modern reinterpretation of *Xenon 2: Megablast*, it captures the essence of late-80s shoot-'em-up classics while adapting it with more detailed graphics, fluid animations, and a particularly intense pace.
The premise is straightforward: pilot a combat ship through a dangerous futuristic setting while destroying waves of alien ships, meteorites, and other obstacles. There is no complex narrative campaign or cast of developed characters; the game functions like an arcade mission where the primary goal is to advance, survive, and reach the end of the course. Its structure is highly compact—designed around a single level—yet it offers enough threats and shifting situations to put the player's reflexes to the test.
The ship moves freely across the screen while the environment scrolls automatically. Players must dodge projectiles, maneuver through enemy formations, and maintain constant fire to carve a path forward. The action mixes standard enemy encounters with obstacle-filled zones and high-intensity battles. As with other titles in the series, the difficulty requires learning attack patterns and making the most of available space, especially when the screen becomes crowded with enemies and gunfire.
One of its most appealing features is the upgrade and power-up system. By destroying enemies or collecting items scattered throughout the level, players can boost firepower, add cannons to the ship, or increase its speed. Special resources also appear, enabling specific maneuvers—such as diving to pass beneath certain obstacles. Managing these upgrades is essential, as a well-equipped ship can turn a tricky section into an opportunity to achieve a high score.
Originally released as a project linked to *PC Format* magazine, Xenon 2000: Project PCF serves as a tribute to The Bitmap Brothers' arcade legacy and their influential *Xenon 2: Megablast*. Its blend of immediate action, sci-fi aesthetics, and challenging difficulty makes it a small yet interesting piece of PC gaming history—highly recommended for fans of classic shoot 'em ups and short, skill-based experiences.
