Xexyz

Xexyz is set in a post-apocalyptic 2777 where the surviving human, spirit, and fairy populations inhabit five islands. The player controls the soldier Apollo, whose objective is to overthrow the conqueror Goruza after he seizes control of these islands.

Progress involves liberating each island through a cycle of two distinct gameplay styles. The primary exploration occurs in side-scrolling action stages where Apollo can interact with non-player characters, enter shops, and engage with bonus games. These areas contain hidden rooms and bosses, and successful navigation rewards the player with currency and special items that grant temporary abilities.

Access to Goruza's mechanical fortresses, which are more intricate versions of the standard action stages, is gated by collecting specific items. Each island's conclusion is marked by a shift to an auto-scrolling shooter sequence, where Apollo pilots a vehicle through waves of enemies, collecting power-ups. This segment culminates in a boss encounter, first fought on foot and then from the vehicle, before the cycle repeats for the next island.