By holding down the L button and pressing either up or down on the D-pad, you will be able to freeze one Nec and then are free to continue controlling the other. This ability will allow you to access places that would otherwise be unreachable due to blockages present in the other Nec's time, solve puzzles that require precise timing or quick maneuvering, and is even necessary for taking out some of the enemies you'll face throughout the game.

As an example, in one level the present Nec is being chased by a shielded enemy. Once the enemy steps into the correct position in the present, you'll need to take singular control over the past Nec and fire at an overhead plant, thereby dropping a bomb on the enemy in the present and breaking his shield. Holding the L button and pressing in the opposite direction will re-synch both time periods, teleporting whichever Nec you were controlling back to the original position where you first split time.

Of course, it's not all puzzles and time manipulation in Chronos Twins, there's actually quite a bit of fast-paced platforming and combat to be found as well. Throughout the course of the game, you'll run into several segments that require you to basically keep one eye on both screens and hope for the best. One of the more notable instances of this included essentially running a gauntlet full of dropping spiked weights while also trying to avoid shots coming from both in front of and behind Nec, with enemies constantly spawning in and out of existence in your way as well. The dangers are different on both screens, so while your past Nec might be in the clear, present Nec might be sliding right into an enemy, spiked weight, or shot. It can all be extremely difficult to keep up with at times, but this is also most of the reason that it feels so unique and interesting.

If you're looking for a game that is fun to play but doesn't really provide a challenge, I'd definitely suggest staying away from Chronos Twins. This game presents you with plenty of head-scratching puzzles, will inevitably make you feel crazy when trying to keep up with what is happening on both screens, and may even make you angry occasionally. However, making it through the particularly challenging parts of the game feels incredibly rewarding in its own right, and it helps to make Chronos Twins a very fun and memorable experience. If you don't mind a challenge and perhaps a little frustration, this title is truly a unique five dollar downloadable gem.

By Adam Brown
CCC Staff Contributor