Windowkill is a twin-stick shooter, but the game window itself is constantly closing in on you. Shoot the window edges to push it around your screen as you fight and dodge enemies and bosses in their own windows.
Players must shoot the edges of the window to push it around their screen, constantly expanding and contracting the play area. This unique mechanic is the core of the gameplay experience, with reviewers praising how seamlessly it integrates with the twin-stick shooting. As the window shrinks, players must quickly reposition it to create more space to dodge enemy fire and reach off-screen threats.
Hordes of geometric enemies and projectiles flood the screen, forcing players to masterfully weave between bullets while gunning down their foes. The action ramps up in intensity, with one reviewer describing it as feeling like "clown vomit" - in a good way. Carefully managing the window size becomes crucial as the onslaught of enemies grows more relentless.
Defeated enemies drop currency that can purchase randomized stat boosts and abilities in the in-game shop. Reviewers highlight the importance of getting "lucky" with powerful upgrade combinations to progress further. This roguelike loop, combined with the dynamic window mechanic, creates a highly replayable and addictive experience.
Defeating bosses, each with their own unique mechanics like a "smiley face that can punch the window smaller" or a "slime that does splash mortar damage", grants the player access to special one-time abilities. These range from creating a new permanent window for better visibility to deploying a damaging zone. Strategically using these abilities is crucial for overcoming the game's toughest challenges.
Reviewers consistently laud the game's highly original concept, with the window-based gameplay mechanics being a standout feature that elevates the twin-stick shooter/bullet hell formula. The creative, challenging, and addictive gameplay loop has resonated with players, making this an acclaimed and unique entry in the genre.