Summary
- Release Year: 2004
- Genres: Shooter
- Platforms: Android, Arcade, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 2, Wii
- Developers: HyberDevbox Japan, Octopus Studio
- Publishers: 505 Games, Conspiracy Entertainment, HyberDevbox Japan, Metro 3D
Counter Force: A High-Octane On-Rails Shooter for the Wii
Released in 2004 for the Nintendo Wii, Counter Force is an on-rails shooter game that brings the intense action of Ex Zeus to the home console. Developed by Hudson Soft and published by Konami, Counter Force offers a thrilling and colorful experience, with a variety of enemies, bosses, and stages to keep players engaged.
Gameplay
Counter Force is an on-rails shooter, meaning that the player’s movement is restricted to a predetermined path. The player controls a ship that automatically moves forward, and they must use the Wii Remote to aim and shoot at enemies. The Wii Remote’s motion controls allow for precise aiming, and the game’s fast-paced action keeps players on their toes.
The game features a variety of enemies, each with their own unique attack patterns. Players must quickly identify and adapt to each enemy’s behavior in order to survive. In addition to regular enemies, Counter Force also features boss battles, which require players to use their skills and strategies to defeat powerful opponents.
Story
Counter Force takes place in a futuristic world where an alien race known as the Zex have invaded Earth. The player takes control of a member of the Counter Force, an elite team of pilots tasked with defending the planet from the alien threat.
The story of Counter Force is told through a series of cutscenes, which are rendered in the game’s vibrant and colorful art style. The cutscenes help to flesh out the characters and the world of Counter Force, and they provide a sense of urgency to the player’s mission.
Graphics and Sound
Counter Force features vibrant and colorful graphics that bring the game’s world to life. The game’s art style is reminiscent of classic anime, with exaggerated character designs and detailed backgrounds. The game’s environments are varied and interesting, and they offer a wide range of visual experiences.
The sound design of Counter Force is equally impressive. The game’s soundtrack is composed of high-energy electronic music that perfectly complements the fast-paced action. The sound effects are also well-done, and they help to create a sense of immersion for the player.
Wii Remote Controls
Counter Force makes full use of the Wii Remote’s motion controls. The player uses the Wii Remote to aim and shoot, and they can also use the Wii Remote to perform special attacks. The motion controls are responsive and intuitive, and they add an extra layer of excitement to the gameplay.
Multiplayer
Counter Force features a variety of multiplayer modes, allowing players to team up or compete against each other. The game supports up to four players, and there are a variety of different modes to choose from, including cooperative missions and competitive deathmatches.
Reception
Counter Force received generally positive reviews upon its release. Critics praised the game’s fast-paced action, vibrant graphics, and innovative use of the Wii Remote controls. However, some critics found the game to be too short and repetitive.
Overall, Counter Force is a solid on-rails shooter that offers a thrilling and colorful experience. The game’s fast-paced action, variety of enemies, and innovative use of the Wii Remote controls make it a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre.
Legacy
Counter Force was a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide. The game was praised for its innovative use of the Wii Remote controls, and it helped to popularize the on-rails shooter genre on the Wii.
Counter Force has been followed by two sequels, Counter Force X (2006) and Counter Force EX (2007). Both sequels were released on the Wii, and they offer similar gameplay to the original game.
Conclusion
Counter Force is a fast-paced and exciting on-rails shooter that offers a thrilling and colorful experience. The game’s innovative use of the Wii Remote controls, variety of enemies, and vibrant graphics make it a worthwhile experience for fans of the genre.
Review Score
7.5/10