Advanced Busterhawk Gleylancer (1992)

by Christopher June 6, 2025

written by Christopher June 6, 2025 4 minutes read

Summary

Release Year: 1992
Genres: Shooter
Platforms: Sega Mega Drive/Genesis, Wii
Developers: NCS Corporation
Publishers: Masaya

Advanced Busterhawk Gleylancer: A 16-Bit Shoot-‘Em-Up Masterpiece

Released exclusively in Japan for the Sega Mega Drive in 1992, Advanced Busterhawk Gleylancer (commonly known simply as Gleylancer) is a shoot-’em-up game that has garnered a cult following among fans of the genre. Despite never receiving an official English release, the game has been praised for its fast-paced action, stunning graphics, and compelling storyline.

Gameplay

Gleylancer is a vertically scrolling shoot-’em-up in which players control Lucia, a 16-year-old fighter pilot who sets out to rescue her father from the clutches of an alien race. Lucia pilots the prototype fighter CSH-01-XA “Gley Lancer,” which is equipped with a variety of weapons and power-ups.

The game features a variety of levels, each with its own unique enemies and bosses. Lucia must use her agility and firepower to defeat her enemies and progress through the game. Gleylancer also features a branching storyline, which is determined by the player’s actions throughout the game.

Graphics and Sound

Gleylancer is one of the most visually impressive games on the Sega Mega Drive. The game’s graphics are colorful and detailed, and the animation is fluid. The game also features a memorable soundtrack that perfectly complements the action on-screen.

Story

Gleylancer’s story is surprisingly complex and well-developed for a shoot-’em-up game. The game’s characters are well-developed and relatable, and the story is full of twists and turns. Gleylancer’s story is one of the things that sets it apart from other shoot-’em-ups and makes it a truly memorable experience.

Legacy

Gleylancer was a critical and commercial success in Japan, but it never received an official English release. However, the game has been translated by fan groups and is now available to play on a variety of platforms.

Gleylancer has been praised by critics and fans alike for its fast-paced action, stunning graphics, and compelling storyline. The game is considered to be one of the best shoot-’em-ups on the Sega Mega Drive and is a must-play for fans of the genre.

Conclusion

Advanced Busterhawk Gleylancer is a classic shoot-’em-up game that deserves to be more widely known. The game’s fast-paced action, stunning graphics, and compelling storyline make it a truly unforgettable experience. If you’re a fan of shoot-’em-ups, then you owe it to yourself to check out Gleylancer.

Additional Information

Developer: NCS
Publisher: NCS
Release Date: 1992
Platform: Sega Mega Drive
Genre: Shoot-’em-up
Number of Players: 1
ESRB Rating: N/A

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.