Game Review: Big Trouble in Little Chimney (Xbox Series X)

While there’s no touching the likes of Vampire Survivors as far as bullet hell arena shooters go, there’s no denying that some of the smaller, more compact, basic efforts offer plenty of value too.

One such effort that leaves a positive impression is Big Trouble in Little Chimney. A festive-themed bullet hell arena shooter that puts you in the red stockings of Santa Claus, armed to the teeth, and forced to fight for his life to defend Christmas against Krampus and his minions.

Utilising very simple controls, designed to be played in short ten-minute bursts, and with plenty of replay value, Big Trouble in Little Chimney is a good game. One that can be finished within an hour but thanks to two modes, high scores, and plenty of unlocks, there’s a few more hours in it if players want to go beyond achievement hunting.

Like many other games of this ilk, the first attempt will be short, as you will find Santa extremely underpowered and the hordes of enemies too much to handle after a short while. However, your death will not be vain, as the failed run will earn you coins, and those coins can be spent in Santa’s Workshop. Not just on upgrades that make things a bit easier, but with new weapons and abilities.

My advice? The combination of the hammer and decoy is what all players should be aiming for.

From an attempt that ends within a minute, to an attempt that goes to three, to an attempt that passes the five-minute mark, to an attempt that ends in a showdown with Krampus. It’s all about what you buy in the Workshop, alongside varied upgrades that you can apply as you do battle with the hordes.

Enemies drop XP once destroyed and in true bullet hell arena shooter fashion, you can level up as you play. Once you reach a new level, you will be able to choose between three upgrades that can make your attempt easier or more challenging. There are many to choose from, varying from upgrades to weapons, upping the abilities of your pet companion, increasing the intensity of enemies and the damage they dish out, and so on. This guarantees each run will be unique, with some easier than others, but importantly, success is guaranteed eventually.

It’s not the best looking game, but the pixel-style graphics are charming and the music fits the tone nicely. For the price, and the fun that can be had while playing, it is one well worth checking out this festive period.