Shutshimi

Introduction

   Shutshimi is a fast-paced, side-scrolling shoot 'em up developed by Neon Deity Games and published by Choice Provisions. Originally released in 2015, this bizarre and frantic game follows the adventures of a muscle-bound goldfish armed with heavy artillery, defending his undersea domain from waves of increasingly absurd enemies. Featuring rapid-fire gameplay, randomized power-ups, and an unpredictable structure, Shutshimi delivers a unique blend of chaos and humor that sets it apart from traditional shooters.

   Having completed Shutshimi three times, I can confidently say that this game offers an addictive and exhilarating experience that keeps pulling you back for more. I originally played it on PS Vita, where I completed all of its trophies, and revisiting it on Steam has reaffirmed its charm and chaotic fun. Whether playing solo or in co-op, Shutshimi remains one of the most enjoyable and unpredictable shoot 'em ups in recent years.

Story

   The narrative in Shutshimi is intentionally minimal and absurd. Players control a cigar-smoking, buff goldfish who suddenly finds himself defending his aquatic home from a variety of bizarre invaders, including laser-firing sharks, cat pirates, and menacing marine creatures. There’s no deep lore or extensive plot—just pure, nonsensical fun. The humor shines through in its randomness, reinforcing the game's commitment to over-the-top entertainment rather than a conventional storyline.

   What makes the game’s storytelling unique is its refusal to take itself seriously. Everything is designed to be ridiculous, from the exaggerated enemy designs to the absurd power-ups and the protagonist’s inexplicable muscular physique. The game leans heavily into its bizarre sense of humor, which is enhanced by the unpredictable nature of its power-ups and enemy encounters. While there isn’t a traditional plot progression, the sheer randomness of each run keeps things fresh, making every playthrough feel like a new, unhinged adventure.

Gameplay

   At its core, Shutshimi is a high-speed bullet hell shooter with a twist: each round lasts only 10 seconds. After every wave, players must quickly select from a set of randomly generated power-ups, which dramatically alter the gameplay experience. These range from beneficial enhancements like increased firepower or extra health to bizarre modifiers such as reversed controls or a party hat. The frantic nature of the game forces players to think on their feet and adapt to constantly shifting mechanics. The result is a highly replayable and unpredictable experience that thrives on its sheer unpredictability.

   One of the most engaging aspects of the gameplay is the sheer variety of power-ups and modifiers. Some power-ups offer clear advantages, such as rapid-fire weapons or additional shields, while others introduce pure chaos, like distorting the screen or making the goldfish wear silly hats. Learning to adapt to these changes on the fly is a big part of the challenge, and it’s what makes Shutshimi such a compelling experience over multiple playthroughs.

   The game supports both single-player and local co-op, making it a fantastic party game. The cooperative mode amplifies the madness as multiple players scramble to react to the ever-changing battlefield, ensuring a fresh and exhilarating experience every time. Playing with friends adds a new layer of hilarity, especially when someone accidentally picks a power-up that disrupts the entire team’s strategy.

   Having completed the game multiple times, I can attest to its enduring appeal. Every run feels different due to the randomized nature of power-ups and enemies, and even after mastering the game, I still find myself coming back for more. The rapid-fire gameplay loop ensures that you never feel stuck or bogged down by repetition, making Shutshimi one of the most endlessly entertaining shoot 'em ups I’ve played.

Graphics

   Shutshimi features a vibrant, pixel-art aesthetic that leans into its wacky theme. The character and enemy designs are colorful, exaggerated, and bursting with personality. Animations are fluid, and despite the overwhelming on-screen chaos, the visual clarity remains sharp, ensuring that players can keep up with the action. The game’s UI is minimalistic and well-integrated, avoiding unnecessary clutter while still providing crucial information at a glance.

   Each enemy type is uniquely designed, ensuring that no two encounters feel exactly the same. The environments, while simplistic, are filled with amusing details that enhance the game’s surreal atmosphere. The retro-style pixel art, combined with the game’s eccentric animations, creates an experience that feels both nostalgic and fresh.

Sound & Music

   The soundtrack is an energetic mix of chiptune-inspired tracks that perfectly complement the game’s frantic pace. The music dynamically shifts between waves, maintaining an adrenaline-pumping rhythm that keeps players engaged. Sound effects are punchy and satisfying, from the rapid-fire bursts of weaponry to the humorous quips of the goldfish protagonist. The audio design reinforces the game’s quirky personality, making each session feel lively and engaging.

   One particularly enjoyable aspect of the audio design is how it adapts to the chaos on screen. Some power-ups even affect the soundtrack, distorting the music or adding comedic effects that further enhance the game’s unpredictability. This level of detail in the sound design adds an extra layer of immersion and fun.

Controls

   Controls in Shutshimi are simple and responsive, making it easy for both newcomers and experienced players to jump in. Movement is tight, and firing mechanics are intuitive, allowing players to focus on dodging projectiles and making split-second decisions. The game plays smoothly on both keyboard and controller, with button layouts optimized for accessibility and quick reactions. In a game where each decision must be made in a matter of seconds, the fluid controls ensure that frustration comes only from the challenge, not from the input system.

Performance on Steam Deck

   Shutshimi runs flawlessly on the Steam Deck. Given its pixel-art visuals and relatively lightweight engine, the game maintains a steady 60 FPS with no noticeable frame drops. Load times are practically nonexistent, and battery consumption is minimal, making it a great choice for portable play. The small screen does not hinder gameplay, as the game’s well-defined visuals remain clear even in the heat of battle.

Recommended Settings for Steam Deck:

• Resolution: 1280x800 (native Steam Deck resolution)
• Frame Rate Limit: 60 FPS (rock-solid performance)
• V-Sync: On (to prevent screen tearing)
• Control Layout: Default (fully responsive and comfortable)
• Battery Life: High (minimal impact on power consumption, allowing for extended play sessions)

   With its arcade-like structure and short play sessions, Shutshimi is an excellent game for quick bursts of entertainment on the go. The handheld format enhances its accessibility, making it an easy pick-up-and-play title for Steam Deck users.

Conclusion

   Shutshimi is a wonderfully chaotic and humorous shoot 'em up that delivers a unique take on the genre. Its ultra-fast gameplay loops, randomized power-ups, and quirky aesthetic make it a standout among indie shooters. Having played and completed it multiple times across different platforms, I can confidently say that Shutshimi offers an experience that remains fun and engaging no matter how many times you return to it. For those looking for a lighthearted, action-packed experience that’s perfect for quick play sessions, Shutshimi is an excellent choice—especially on the Steam Deck, where it runs flawlessly and shines as a portable gem.