Blazing Star (1998)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Blazing Star (1998): A Blazing Gem of the Neo Geo’s Shooter Library

Released in 1998, Blazing Star is a vertically scrolling shoot-em-up (shmup) for the Neo Geo home video game system. Developed by Yumekobo and published by SNK, it is the sequel to the acclaimed Neo Geo shooter Pulstar, which was itself heavily inspired by the R-Type franchise.

Graphics and Presentation

Blazing Star is a visual spectacle on the Neo Geo hardware. The game makes extensive use of pseudo-3D pre-rendered sprites, which give the game a unique and striking look. The backgrounds are also highly detailed and varied, ranging from space stations to alien planets to abstract hyperspace tunnels.

The game also features brief anime and CGI cutscenes, mostly during the intro sequence. These cutscenes are well-animated and help to set the game’s story and atmosphere.

Gameplay

Blazing Star is a vertically scrolling shoot-em-up in the same vein as R-Type and Pulstar. The player controls a spaceship that can fire in multiple directions. The ship can also be equipped with a variety of power-ups, including homing missiles, lasers, and spread shots.

One of the unique features of Blazing Star is its “Formation” system. The player can collect different types of formations, which orbit around the ship and provide additional firepower. The formations can be arranged in a variety of ways to create different攻擊 patterns.

Blazing Star is a challenging game, but it is also fair. The player has a generous amount of lives and continues, and the checkpoints are placed liberally. This allows the player to progress through the game without getting too frustrated.

Story

Blazing Star takes place in the year 2099. The Earth has been invaded by an alien race known as the Zeograd. The player takes control of a spaceship pilot who must fight their way through the Zeograd hordes to save the Earth.

The story is told through brief cutscenes and dialogue boxes. It is not particularly complex, but it is effective in setting up the game’s conflict and motivating the player.

Music and Sound

The music in Blazing Star is excellent. The soundtrack is composed of a mix of techno and rock tracks that perfectly complement the game’s fast-paced action. The sound effects are also top-notch, and they help to create a immersive and exciting experience.

Overall

Blazing Star is a classic shoot-em-up that is still enjoyed by fans today. Its impressive graphics, tight controls, and challenging gameplay make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you are looking for a great shmup to add to your Neo Geo collection, then Blazing Star should be at the top of your list.

Score: 8.5 out of 10

Pros:

  • Impressive graphics
  • Tight controls
  • Challenging gameplay
  • Excellent music and sound

Cons:

  • Some may find the game to be too easy
  • The pre-rendered sprites may not be to everyone’s taste

Review Score

8.5/10

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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