3D Galax (1987)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

3D Galax (1987): A Pioneering 3D Shooter

Released in 1987, 3D Galax was a groundbreaking arcade shooter that brought the classic Space Invaders/Galaxian formula into the third dimension. With its first-person cockpit perspective and flat-shaded polygonal graphics, 3D Galax was a visually striking and immersive experience that pushed the boundaries of what was possible in arcade gaming at the time.

Gameplay

3D Galax is played from a first-person perspective, with the player controlling a laser cannon mounted on a spaceship. The goal of the game is to destroy waves of aliens that advance towards the player from the depths of space. Unlike in Space Invaders and Galaxian, the aliens in 3D Galax do not shoot back; the only danger they pose is that of crashing into the player’s spaceship.

The aliens in 3D Galax are arranged in formations that change every four waves. The formations become increasingly complex and difficult to navigate as the game progresses. In addition to the regular waves of aliens, there are also bonus stages that involve navigating an asteroid field.

Graphics and Sound

3D Galax was one of the first arcade games to use flat-shaded polygonal graphics. This gave the game a unique and distinctive look that set it apart from other shooters of the time. The game’s graphics are simple but effective, and they create a convincing sense of depth and immersion.

The sound in 3D Galax is sparse but effective. The game’s soundtrack consists of a simple loop of electronic music that adds to the紧张氛围.

Legacy

3D Galax was a critical and commercial success, and it is considered to be one of the most influential arcade shooters of all time. The game’s innovative use of 3D graphics and first-person perspective helped to pave the way for future 3D shooters, such as Star Fox and Descent.

3D Galax has been ported to a number of home platforms, including the NES, Commodore 64, and Atari ST. The game is also available on a number of online gaming services, such as the PlayStation Network and Xbox Live Arcade.

Critical Reception

3D Galax received positive reviews from critics upon its release. The game was praised for its innovative graphics, immersive gameplay, and challenging difficulty. However, some critics found the game to be too difficult and repetitive.

Overall

3D Galax is a groundbreaking arcade shooter that pushed the boundaries of what was possible in gaming at the time. The game’s innovative use of 3D graphics and first-person perspective helped to pave the way for future 3D shooters. While the game can be challenging and repetitive at times, it is still a fun and rewarding experience that is well worth checking out.

Additional Information

  • Developer: Namco
  • Publisher: Namco
  • Release Date: 1987
  • Genre: Shooter
  • Platforms: Arcade, NES, Commodore 64, Atari ST, PlayStation Network, Xbox Live Arcade

Trivia

  • 3D Galax is one of the first arcade games to use flat-shaded polygonal graphics.
  • The game’s soundtrack was composed by Namco sound designer Nobuyuki Ohnogi.
  • 3D Galax was ported to the NES in 1988. The NES version of the game is missing some of the features of the arcade original, such as the bonus stages.
  • 3D Galax is included in the Namco Museum compilation for the PlayStation, PlayStation 2, and GameCube.

Review Score

7/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Profile photo of Nish

Nish is a software engineer by day and avid gamer who loves to play video games after he puts his two boys to bed. His insights delve into the mechanics, and storytelling of the games he plays with the aim to share his passion with the audience. He loves to travel back to his native India and travel the country on his restored Royal Enfield Bullet 350, a relic from a simpler time, like some of the games he plays.

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