Nano Assault EX
Image: Shin'en Multimedia

For the month before the 3DS and Wii U eShops close for new purchases on 27th March, each day we're going to highlight a specific eShop game for one of those consoles and give a short pitch as to why we think it deserves your love and attention — before it's too late. The chance to add these to your library will be gone for good soon and, for one reason or another, these eShop-exclusives are close to our hearts.

Today, Ollie nominates Nano Assault EX, an excellent shmup from the folks who brought you Fast RMX and The Touryst.

So, what's it called again?

Nano Assault EX - an enhanced digital version of Nano Assault released on the eShop in 2013.

Who made it?

Shin'en Multimedia. This developer has been around since the Game Boy Color days, but it really started to make waves with Nanostray on the Nintendo DS, followed by Nano Assault on the 3DS. Its output on the Switch is impressive so far, releasing the exceptional launch title Fast RMX, the excellent physics puzzler Art Of Balance (also on 3DS and Wii U), and the aforementioned wonderful action-adventure puzzle game The Touryst in 2019.

What's the premise?

Nano Assault EX is a shmup, through and through. You'll be navigating around various planets in your trusty ship, blowing up enemies left, right, and centre with either the face buttons or the Circle Pad Pro.

There are multiple modes to get stuck into, including Story Mode, Boss Rush Mode, Survivor Mode, and Arcade Mode. Survivor Mode in particular is a brand new addition to the EX version of the game, alongside the additional control scheme.

Why should I play it?

Nano Assault was already a fantastic experience, but the release of Nano Assault EX brought with it a host of new content and enhancements that fans should absolutely try out.

First up, we mentioned the addition of Survivor Mode to the roster of modes to take on, along with the added support for the Circle Pad Pro and enhanced responsiveness that made the slick gameplay even more satisfying. It also looks wonderful, provides a suitable level of challenge, and remains exceptionally affordable.

If you're a fan of Shin'en's later games for the Switch, you owe it to yourself to try out one of its finest creations yet. Get on it.

How much is it?

£8.49 / $9.99 / €9.99. It's been a few months since this one has been on sale, but keep a close eye on it, because it's been known to go down to as low as £1.69 / $1.99. That's an insane bargain!

We'll be back soon with another 3DS or Wii U eShop recommendation as part of this 'Countdown' series. Let us know below if you've already got this in your collection and share your thoughts. Also, feel free to nominate other games — we just might highlight those in the coming days, too.