Publisher: Vic Tokai

Aerostar (1991)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Aerostar: A Side-Scrolling Shooter Classic

Released in 1991, Aerostar is a side-scrolling shooter that puts you in control of a lone fighter tasked with defending the Earth from mutants. After the Sixth World War rendered the Earth uninhabitable, the Intergalactic Council sent humans to restore civilization there. However, mutants had prospered in the wastelands and were unwilling to give up their new home. Enter Aerostar, the lone fighter sent in to defend the Earth from a second act of total destruction.

Aerostar is a classic side-scroller in the vein of Gradius and R-Type. You fly your ship from left to right, shooting down waves of enemies while dodging their fire. The game features a variety of power-ups that can enhance your ship’s firepower, speed, and defenses. There are also a number of different enemy types, each with their own unique attack patterns.

One of the things that makes Aerostar stand out from other side-scrolling shooters is its focus on exploration. In addition to the main path, there are a number of hidden areas that can be accessed by destroying certain walls or taking alternate routes. These hidden areas often contain power-ups or extra lives, so it’s worth taking the time to explore them.

Aerostar is a challenging game, but it’s also very rewarding. The game’s difficulty curve is well-balanced, and there’s a real sense of accomplishment when you finally beat a particularly tough level. The game also features a number of different endings, depending on how well you perform.

Overall, Aerostar is a classic side-scrolling shooter that still holds up today. It’s a challenging but rewarding game with a lot of replay value. If you’re a fan of the genre, then you owe it to yourself to check out Aerostar.

Gameplay

Aerostar is a side-scrolling shooter in which the player controls a lone fighter ship. The ship can move left and right, and can fire lasers in eight directions. The player must use the ship to destroy waves of enemy ships and ground units, while avoiding their fire.

The game features a variety of power-ups that can enhance the ship’s firepower, speed, and defenses. These power-ups can be collected by destroying certain enemies or by finding them hidden in the environment.

There are also a number of different enemy types in Aerostar, each with their own unique attack patterns. Some enemies will fire lasers, while others will drop bombs or kamikaze into the player’s ship. The player must learn to identify each enemy type and develop strategies for defeating them.

Levels

Aerostar features a total of eight levels, each with its own unique environment and challenges. The levels are set in a variety of locations, including Earth, the moon, and a space station. Each level is filled with waves of enemies, as well as a number of hidden areas to explore.

The levels in Aerostar are progressively more difficult, and the player will need to use all of their skills and abilities to survive. The final level is a particularly challenging gauntlet, and only the most skilled players will be able to defeat it.

Bosses

In addition to the regular enemies, Aerostar also features a number of boss battles. The bosses are large and powerful enemies that require a specific strategy to defeat. Each boss has its own unique attack patterns, and the player will need to learn these patterns in order to survive.

The bosses in Aerostar are some of the most challenging in any side-scrolling shooter. They will test the player’s skills and reflexes to the limit.

Graphics and Sound

Aerostar features colorful and detailed graphics for its time. The game’s environments are varied and well-designed, and the enemy sprites are both detailed and menacing. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with a number of catchy and memorable tunes.

Overall

Aerostar is a classic side-scrolling shooter that still holds up today. It’s a challenging but rewarding game with a lot of replay value. If you’re a fan of the genre, then you owe it to yourself to check out Aerostar.

Score: 8/10

Review Score

8/10

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King Salmon: The Big Catch (1992)

by Nish
written by Nish 4 minutes read

Summary

King Salmon: The Big Catch (1992)

King Salmon: The Big Catch is a fishing competition simulator released in 1992 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). The game is set in Alaska, and the player takes on the role of a fisherman competing in a king salmon fishing tournament. The objective of the game is to catch the biggest king salmon and win the tournament.

To catch fish, the player must first drive their boat to a good fishing spot. The player can choose from a variety of lures and line lengths, and they must also decide how deep to fish. Once the player has cast their line, they must wait for a fish to bite. When a fish bites, the player must reel it in. The player must be careful not to reel in the fish too quickly, or the line will break.

King Salmon: The Big Catch is a challenging and rewarding game. The player must use their skill and patience to catch the biggest fish. The game also includes a number of role-playing elements, such as the ability to upgrade the player’s boat and equipment.

Gameplay

King Salmon: The Big Catch is played from a first-person perspective. The player controls their boat using the D-pad, and they can cast their line using the A button. The player can reel in their line using the B button, and they can use the L and R buttons to adjust the depth of their line.

The game is divided into three rounds. In each round, the player must catch as many king salmon as possible. The player’s score is based on the weight of the fish they catch. The player with the highest score at the end of the three rounds wins the tournament.

Features

  • Realistic fishing simulation
  • Variety of lures and line lengths to choose from
  • Adjustable fishing depth
  • Role-playing elements
  • Three-round tournament

Reception

King Salmon: The Big Catch received positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its realistic fishing simulation, its variety of lures and line lengths, and its adjustable fishing depth. The game’s role-playing elements were also well-received.

King Salmon: The Big Catch was a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide. The game is still popular today, and it is considered to be one of the best fishing simulators ever released.

Legacy

King Salmon: The Big Catch has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. The game’s realistic fishing simulation and its variety of lures and line lengths have set the standard for other fishing simulators. The game’s role-playing elements have also been influential, and they have been incorporated into many other fishing simulators.

King Salmon: The Big Catch is a classic fishing simulator that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s realistic fishing simulation, its variety of lures and line lengths, and its role-playing elements make it a timeless classic.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Defcon 5 (1995)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 7 minutes read

Summary

Defcon 5 (1995): A Classic FPS That’s Still Worth Playing Today

Defcon 5 is a first-person shooter (FPS) game developed by Inner Circle Creations and published by Infogrames in 1995. The game is set in a futuristic military base that is under attack by waves of enemy fighters. The player takes control of a lone soldier who must defend the base, find key cards to access new areas, and ultimately escape alive.

Defcon 5 is unique among FPS games for its time in that it combines fast-paced action with strategic elements. The player must not only shoot down enemy fighters, but also manage the base’s defenses using a “Virtual Operating System” (VOS). The VOS allows the player to repair damage, monitor intruders, and place robot sentries. As the player progresses, they can upgrade the VOS to make it more efficient and powerful.

The game’s levels are maze-like and interconnected, with multiple paths to each objective. This allows the player to choose their own approach to each level, and to adapt their strategy as the situation changes. The game also features a variety of weapons and power-ups, which the player can use to defeat their enemies.

Defcon 5 was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it is still considered one of the best FPS games of its era. The game’s unique blend of action and strategy, its innovative use of the VOS, and its challenging and rewarding gameplay have made it a favorite among gamers for over two decades.

Gameplay

Defcon 5 is a first-person shooter game in which the player takes control of a lone soldier who must defend a futuristic military base from waves of enemy fighters. The game is played from a first-person perspective, and the player can move around the base freely. The player must use a variety of weapons and power-ups to defeat the enemy fighters, and they must also manage the base’s defenses using the VOS.

The VOS is a computer interface that allows the player to control all of the base’s systems. The player can use the VOS to repair damage, monitor intruders, and place robot sentries. The VOS can also be upgraded to make it more efficient and powerful.

The game’s levels are maze-like and interconnected, with multiple paths to each objective. This allows the player to choose their own approach to each level, and to adapt their strategy as the situation changes. The game also features a variety of weapons and power-ups, which the player can use to defeat their enemies.

Setting

Defcon 5 is set in a futuristic military base that is under attack by waves of enemy fighters. The base is a sprawling complex, with multiple levels and rooms. The player must travel through the base, finding key cards to access new areas and ultimately escaping alive.

The game’s setting is dark and atmospheric, with flickering lights and ominous sound effects. The player is constantly under attack from enemy fighters, and they must be careful not to get lost in the maze-like levels.

Characters

The player character in Defcon 5 is a lone soldier who is the only survivor of the base’s initial attack. The player character is never given a name or a backstory, but they are a skilled fighter and a resourceful survivor.

The player character is also aided by a computer voice known as “Athena.” Athena provides the player with information about the base and its systems, and she also helps the player to find their way through the levels.

Enemies

The player character is opposed by waves of enemy fighters. The enemy fighters are armed with a variety of weapons, and they will attack the player on sight. The player must use their skills and resources to defeat the enemy fighters and survive.

Weapons and Power-ups

The player character can use a variety of weapons and power-ups to defeat their enemies. The weapons include pistols, shotguns, assault rifles, and rocket launchers. The power-ups include health packs, armor, and ammo.

The player can find weapons and power-ups throughout the game’s levels. The player can also purchase weapons and power-ups from vending machines using the money that they collect from defeated enemies.

Virtual Operating System (VOS)

The VOS is a computer interface that allows the player to control all of the base’s systems. The player can use the VOS to repair damage, monitor intruders, and place robot sentries. The VOS can also be upgraded to make it more efficient and powerful.

The VOS is a valuable tool that can help the player to survive and escape the base. The player should learn how to use the VOS effectively in order to succeed in the game.

Conclusion

Defcon 5 is a classic FPS game that is still worth playing today. The game’s unique blend of action and strategy, its innovative use of the VOS, and its challenging and rewarding gameplay have made it a favorite among gamers for over two decades. If you are a fan of FPS games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Defcon 5.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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The Gene Machine (1996)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

The Gene Machine: A Steampunk Detective Adventure Through the Perils of Genetic Mutation

In the enigmatic realm of The Gene Machine, a thrilling point-and-click adventure game released in 1996, players embark on a captivating journey alongside the eccentric detective Piers Featherstonehaugh and his loyal manservant, Mossop. Set in a mesmerizing steampunk universe, this game invites you to unravel a sinister plot involving genetic mutations gone awry.

A Feline Catalyst to an Extraordinary Adventure

The adventure begins with an intriguing encounter. As Featherstonehaugh and Mossop return home, they are greeted by an articulate feline on their doorstep. This extraordinary cat unveils a tale of genetic experiments spiraling out of control, threatening the very fabric of society. Driven by a profound sense of justice, Featherstonehaugh embarks on a perilous quest to halt these nefarious activities and expose the malevolent forces behind them.

Navigating a Labyrinth of Genetic Horrors

The Gene Machine transports players to a captivating world where science and sorcery intertwine. As Featherstonehaugh investigates, he encounters an array of grotesque mutants, each a horrifying testament to the unbridled power of genetic manipulation. From towering monstrosities to insidious creatures lurking in the shadows, the game’s environments are a constant reminder of the perilous nature of the detective’s mission.

Unraveling the Threads of a Twisted Scheme

Throughout his investigation, Featherstonehaugh uncovers a labyrinthine plot that extends far beyond the initial reports of genetic aberrations. A shadowy organization, known as The Geneticists, emerges as the mastermind behind these sinister experiments, their motives shrouded in mystery. As Featherstonehaugh delves deeper into the heart of the conspiracy, he uncovers their ultimate goal: to control the very essence of humanity through genetic manipulation.

A Tapestry of Steampunk Ingenuity and Victorian Charm

The Gene Machine is a masterpiece of steampunk aesthetics, meticulously crafted to immerse players in a world where Victorian elegance seamlessly blends with fantastical machinery. From Featherstonehaugh’s gadgets and inventions to the intricate designs of the environments, every element of the game’s visuals transports players to a captivating realm of gears, steam, and boundless imagination.

A Symphony of Intriguing Characters

Featherstonehaugh is not alone in his quest. Accompanying him is his loyal manservant, Mossop, a bumbling but endearing character who provides both comedic relief and unwavering support. Along the way, they encounter a cast of memorable individuals, from the enigmatic scientist Dr. Evelyn to the enigmatic thief, known only as The Shadow. Each character brings their own unique motivations and complexities to the narrative, enriching the overall tapestry of the game’s story.

Challenging Puzzles and a Riveting Narrative

The Gene Machine presents players with a series of challenging puzzles that test their wits and observation skills. From deciphering cryptic messages to navigating intricate mazes, these puzzles are cleverly interwoven into the game’s narrative, ensuring that players remain fully engaged throughout their adventure. The game’s story is equally captivating, with its twists, turns, and unexpected revelations keeping players on the edge of their seats until the very end.

The Enduring Legacy of a Steampunk Masterpiece

The Gene Machine has left an indelible mark on the adventure game genre, captivating players with its unique blend of steampunk aesthetics, intriguing narrative, and challenging gameplay. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of well-crafted storytelling and imaginative world-building, continuing to inspire and entertain gamers to this day.

Conclusion

The Gene Machine is an extraordinary adventure that transports players to a realm of genetic horrors, steampunk ingenuity, and Victorian charm. With its compelling narrative, memorable characters, and challenging puzzles, it offers an unforgettable experience that will linger in the minds of gamers long after the final credits roll. Whether you are a seasoned adventure game enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, The Gene Machine is a must-play for anyone seeking a captivating and immersive journey through a world where science and fantasy collide.

Review Score

8/10

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Flink (1994)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Flink: A SNES Classic That Still Shines Today

Released in 1994 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), Flink is a charming and challenging platformer/puzzle game that has stood the test of time. Players take control of Flink, a young apprentice wizard, on a quest to rescue the four island leaders who have been kidnapped by the evil Wicked Wainwright.

Flink is a unique game that blends platforming, puzzle-solving, and action-adventure elements. Players must use Flink’s magical abilities to navigate through a variety of levels, including forests, caves, and castles. Along the way, they must solve puzzles, defeat enemies, and collect power-ups.

One of the things that makes Flink so special is its charming visuals. The game’s colorful graphics and detailed sprites are a feast for the eyes. The music and sound effects are also top-notch, creating a truly immersive experience.

But Flink is more than just a pretty face. The game is also quite challenging, with a variety of enemies and obstacles to overcome. Players must use their wits and reflexes to progress through the levels.

One of the most unique aspects of Flink is its magic system. Flink can learn a variety of spells, which he can use to attack enemies, solve puzzles, and traverse the environment. Players must carefully choose which spells to use in each situation, as each spell has its own unique strengths and weaknesses.

Flink is a game that has something to offer everyone. Whether you’re a fan of platformers, puzzle games, or action-adventure games, you’re sure to find something to love in Flink.

Gameplay

Flink is a side-scrolling platformer/puzzle game. Players control Flink, a young apprentice wizard, on a quest to rescue the four island leaders who have been kidnapped by the evil Wicked Wainwright.

Flink can use his magical abilities to attack enemies, solve puzzles, and traverse the environment. He can also collect power-ups that give him new abilities, such as the ability to fly or shoot fireballs.

The game is divided into a series of levels, each with its own unique challenges. Players must use their wits and reflexes to progress through the levels, defeating enemies, solving puzzles, and collecting power-ups.

Graphics and Sound

Flink’s graphics are colorful and detailed, with a charming SNES-era aesthetic. The game’s sprites are well-animated, and the backgrounds are lush and inviting.

The music and sound effects are also top-notch. The music is catchy and atmospheric, and the sound effects are realistic and immersive.

Challenge

Flink is a challenging game, but it is also fair. Players must use their wits and reflexes to progress through the levels, but they will never feel like they are being cheated.

The game’s difficulty curve is well-paced, and players will gradually learn new skills and abilities as they progress. By the end of the game, players will feel like they have truly mastered Flink’s abilities.

Replayability

Flink is a game that can be played over and over again. The game’s levels are varied and challenging, and there is always something new to discover.

In addition, Flink features a number of secrets and hidden areas. Players who are willing to explore can find new power-ups, spells, and even new levels.

Overall

Flink is a charming and challenging platformer/puzzle game that has stood the test of time. With its beautiful graphics, catchy music, and addictive gameplay, Flink is a game that will appeal to gamers of all ages.

Tips for Playing Flink

  • Use your spells wisely. Each spell has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, so it is important to choose the right spell for each situation.
  • Explore every nook and cranny. There are many secrets and hidden areas in Flink, so be sure to explore every level thoroughly.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment. There are many different ways to solve the puzzles in Flink, so don’t be afraid to try different things.
  • Practice makes perfect. Flink is a challenging game, but it is also fair. The more you play, the better you will become at it.

Conclusion

Flink is a classic SNES game that is still worth playing today. With its charming graphics, catchy music, and addictive gameplay, Flink is a game that will appeal to gamers of all ages. If you are looking for a fun and challenging platformer/puzzle game, then Flink is the perfect game for you.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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SilverLoad (1995)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

SilverLoad (1995): A Sinister Tale of the Wild West

In the heart of a desolate desert, where perpetual storms rage and secrets lie buried, there exists a forsaken town named SilverLoad. Once a prosperous boom town, its silver mines now lie dormant, leaving behind a haunting legacy. The few remaining townsfolk bear a peculiar aura, their eyes filled with a mix of fear and resignation. Outsiders rarely venture into SilverLoad, and those who do seldom linger. Rumors whisper of missing persons, swallowed by the town’s enigmatic embrace, never to be seen again.

A Town’s Desperate Plea

Whispers of SilverLoad’s sinister underbelly reach the ears of a seasoned bounty hunter, a solitary figure hardened by the unforgiving wilderness. A group of desperate settlers approaches the bounty hunter, their faces etched with worry and desperation. Their young child has vanished, allegedly kidnapped by a shadowy figure lurking within SilverLoad’s confines. The bounty is tempting, but the town’s reputation casts a long shadow over the mission.

Enter the Preacher

Upon arriving in SilverLoad, the bounty hunter encounters a charismatic yet unsettling figure known as the Preacher. With his piercing gaze and hypnotic sermons, the Preacher wields a strange power over the townsfolk. His influence permeates every corner of SilverLoad, and his motives remain shrouded in mystery. As the bounty hunter delves deeper into the town’s secrets, they realize that the Preacher’s sinister plan threatens their very existence.

A Test of Wills

The bounty hunter becomes entangled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse with the Preacher. Each encounter is a test of wills, a battle between the forces of good and evil. The line between reality and illusion blurs as the bounty hunter navigates SilverLoad’s treacherous landscape, haunted by ghostly apparitions and plagued by unsettling visions.

Unveiling the Truth

As the bounty hunter unravels the twisted threads of the Preacher’s scheme, they uncover a dark secret that has gripped SilverLoad for far too long. The town’s desolation and the disappearance of its people are all part of a sinister plot, one that threatens to consume the entire region.

A Final Showdown

In a climactic confrontation that pushes the bounty hunter to the brink, they must face the Preacher in a final showdown that will determine the fate of SilverLoad. The battle rages across the town’s desolate streets, each gunshot echoing through the eerie silence. The bounty hunter’s skills and determination are put to the ultimate test as they fight to vanquish the Preacher and restore justice to the forsaken town.

A Haunting Legacy

Whether the bounty hunter emerges victorious or falls victim to SilverLoad’s sinister allure, the town’s legacy will forever be tainted by the events that transpired. The Preacher’s malevolent plan may have been thwarted, but the scars he left on SilverLoad and its inhabitants will never fully heal.

A Timeless Western Adventure

SilverLoad (1995) is a haunting and atmospheric Western adventure that blends elements of horror, mystery, and the supernatural. Its unique setting, compelling characters, and gripping storyline have captivated gamers for decades. The game’s pixel art graphics, while simple by today’s standards, still manage to convey a sense of isolation and dread that perfectly complements the game’s unsettling atmosphere.

SilverLoad is a testament to the power of storytelling in video games. It is a game that lingers in the memory long after the credits roll, a haunting tale of a town lost to darkness and the brave soul who dared to challenge it.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Clash at Demonhead (1989)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Clash at Demonhead: A Retrospective on a Genre-Defining Platformer

Released in 1989 for the Nintendo Entertainment System, Clash at Demonhead is an open-ended platformer that captivated gamers with its innovative gameplay, sprawling world, and charming pixel art. Players take control of Billy “Big Bang” Blitz, a lone adventurer tasked with defeating the evil Demonhead and restoring peace to the galaxy.

Gameplay: An Open-Ended Adventure

Clash at Demonhead breaks away from the linear level progression of traditional platformers, offering players an open-ended world to explore. The game’s world map consists of over forty routes, each leading to a unique level filled with challenges, enemies, and hidden secrets.

Players are free to choose which levels to tackle in any order, allowing for a customized and non-repetitive gaming experience. This open-ended approach encourages exploration and experimentation, as players discover new areas, power-ups, and strategies.

Protagonist: Billy “Big Bang” Blitz

Billy Blitz is a charismatic and skilled adventurer who serves as the protagonist of Clash at Demonhead. Armed with a trusty handgun, Billy embarks on a perilous journey to confront Demonhead.

Throughout his adventure, Billy gains access to a variety of power-ups that enhance his abilities. By collecting Force, a resource scattered throughout the game world, Billy can unlock special powers such as shrinking, teleportation, flight, healing, and invincibility.

Enemies and Challenges

Clash at Demonhead features a diverse cast of enemies, from robotic drones to alien creatures and grotesque monsters. Each enemy type possesses unique attack patterns and weaknesses, requiring players to adapt their strategies accordingly.

The game also presents a variety of challenges beyond combat. Players must navigate treacherous environments filled with traps, puzzles, and platforming sections that test their skills and reflexes.

Graphics and Sound

Clash at Demonhead’s pixel art graphics are a testament to the artistic capabilities of the NES. The vibrant colors, detailed character sprites, and imaginative level designs create a visually captivating world that immerses players in the game’s unique atmosphere.

The game’s soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring catchy tunes and atmospheric sound effects that enhance the gameplay experience. The iconic title screen music, in particular, has become synonymous with the game and is fondly remembered by retro gaming enthusiasts.

Legacy and Impact

Clash at Demonhead was a critical and commercial success upon its release, earning praise for its innovative gameplay, open-ended structure, and charming presentation. The game has since been recognized as a classic of the NES era and continues to be enjoyed by retro gaming enthusiasts today.

Clash at Demonhead’s open-ended design and emphasis on exploration influenced the development of subsequent platformers, including the Metroid and Castlevania series. The game’s unique blend of action, adventure, and RPG elements also paved the way for future genre-bending titles.

Conclusion

Clash at Demonhead stands as a testament to the creativity and innovation that defined the golden age of video games. Its open-ended gameplay, memorable protagonist, and charming presentation have cemented its place as a beloved classic among retro gaming enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the NES era, Clash at Demonhead is an unforgettable adventure that deserves a place in your gaming library.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Imperium (1992)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Imperium (1992)

Imperium is a vertical-scrolling shoot ’em up game developed by Vic Tokai and published by Kemco for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System. It was released in Japan in 1992 as Kidou Soukou Dion, and in North America and Europe in 1993 as Imperium.

The game is set in the year 2202, and follows the story of a group of space explorers who are sent to investigate a mysterious alien artifact. The artifact is found to be a powerful weapon, and the explorers are attacked by an alien race known as the Imperium. The explorers must fight their way through the Imperium’s forces and destroy the artifact before it can be used to destroy Earth.

Imperium is a fast-paced and challenging shoot ’em up game. The player controls a spaceship that can fire lasers and bombs. The player must use their weapons to destroy enemy ships and bosses, while avoiding being hit by enemy fire. The game features a variety of different enemies, including small fighters, large bombers, and powerful bosses.

Imperium is known for its colorful graphics and smooth gameplay. The game’s soundtrack is also highly regarded, and features a mix of electronic and orchestral music.

Gameplay

Imperium is a vertical-scrolling shoot ’em up game. The player controls a spaceship that can fire lasers and bombs. The player must use their weapons to destroy enemy ships and bosses, while avoiding being hit by enemy fire.

The game features a variety of different enemies, including small fighters, large bombers, and powerful bosses. Each enemy type has its own unique attack patterns, and the player must learn how to defeat each type of enemy in order to progress through the game.

Imperium also features a number of power-ups that can help the player to defeat their enemies. These power-ups include:

  • Speed Up: Increases the player’s ship speed.
  • Power Up: Increases the player’s firepower.
  • Bomb: Drops a bomb that destroys all enemies on the screen.
  • Shield: Gives the player’s ship a temporary shield that protects it from enemy fire.

The player can collect power-ups by shooting them with their lasers. Power-ups will also appear randomly throughout the game.

Graphics and Sound

Imperium is known for its colorful graphics and smooth gameplay. The game’s backgrounds are detailed and varied, and the enemy ships are well-animated. The game’s soundtrack is also highly regarded, and features a mix of electronic and orchestral music.

Reception

Imperium was released to positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, colorful graphics, and smooth soundtrack. However, some critics found the game to be too difficult.

Overall, Imperium is a well-made and enjoyable shoot ’em up game. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, colorful graphics, and smooth soundtrack make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Legacy

Imperium has been cited as an influence on a number of other shoot ’em up games, including Treasure’s Radiant Silvergun (1998) and Cave’s DoDonPachi (1998). The game has also been ported to a number of other platforms, including the PlayStation Portable (2007) and the Nintendo Switch (2018).

Trivia

  • Imperium was originally released in Japan as Kidou Soukou Dion. The game was renamed to Imperium for its North American and European release.
  • The game’s soundtrack was composed by Manabu Namiki, who also composed the soundtrack for the Super Nintendo game Super Castlevania IV (1991).
  • Imperium was one of the first Super Nintendo games to feature Mode 7 graphics. Mode 7 is a graphics mode that allows for the creation of 3D effects.

Tips for Playing Imperium

  • Use your lasers to destroy small enemies and bosses.
  • Use your bombs to destroy large groups of enemies.
  • Collect power-ups to increase your firepower and speed.
  • Learn the attack patterns of each enemy type.
  • Be patient and don’t give up!

Review Score

7.5/10

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Top Gear 2 (1993)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Top Gear 2 (1993): A Retro Racing Masterpiece

Released in 1993 for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES), Top Gear 2 is a third-person racing game that quickly became a classic in the genre. Developed by Gremlin Graphics and published by Kemco, Top Gear 2 is known for its challenging tracks, variety of cars, and exciting gameplay.

Gameplay

Top Gear 2 is a racing game in which the player controls a car from a third-person perspective. The game features 16 countries, each of which has four races. The player must finish in the top 10 in each race to continue, and the top six finishers score points. The player can use the points to upgrade their car with new parts, such as engines, tires, and shocks.

The game also features a variety of hazards, such as puddles, barriers, and ramps. The player must carefully navigate these hazards to avoid crashing. In addition, the player can collect nitro boosts to give their car a temporary speed boost.

Tracks

Top Gear 2 features 16 countries, each with four unique tracks. The tracks are based on real-world locations, but they have been modified to make them more challenging and exciting. For example, the Monza track is set in Ayers Rock, and the Hockenheim track is set in Vancouver.

Cars

Top Gear 2 features a variety of cars to choose from. Each car has its own unique stats, such as speed, acceleration, and handling. The player can choose the car that best suits their driving style.

Graphics and Sound

Top Gear 2 has impressive graphics for a SNES game. The tracks are detailed and colorful, and the cars are well-rendered. The game’s sound effects are also top-notch, and the music is catchy and exciting.

Legacy

Top Gear 2 is considered to be one of the best racing games ever made. It was praised for its challenging tracks, variety of cars, and exciting gameplay. The game has been ported to a number of other platforms, and it is still enjoyed by gamers today.

Conclusion

Top Gear 2 is a classic racing game that still holds up today. With its challenging tracks, variety of cars, and exciting gameplay, it’s a must-play for any fan of the genre. If you’re looking for a retro racing game to play, Top Gear 2 is the perfect choice.

Additional Information

  • Top Gear 2 was the sequel to the original Top Gear game, which was released in 1990.
  • The game was developed by Gremlin Graphics, which was a British video game developer.
  • Top Gear 2 was published by Kemco, which was a Japanese video game publisher.
  • The game was released on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in 1993.
  • Top Gear 2 was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its challenging tracks, variety of cars, and exciting gameplay.
  • The game has been ported to a number of other platforms, including the Game Boy Advance, Nintendo DS, and PlayStation 2.
  • Top Gear 2 is still enjoyed by gamers today. It is considered to be one of the best racing games ever made.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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Criticom (1995)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Criticom (1995): A Detailed Retrospective

Released in 1995, Criticom is a 2D fighting game developed by SNK and released for the Neo Geo arcade and home platforms. The game is set in a futuristic world where eight different clans are vying for control of a powerful artifact known as the Relic. Players choose one of eight fighters, each with their own unique skills and abilities, and battle their way through the game’s single-player mode or compete against other players in the two-player mode.

Criticom was praised for its innovative gameplay, which featured a unique “chain combo” system that allowed players to string together multiple attacks into devastating combos. The game also featured a variety of different characters, each with their own unique playstyles and backstories.

Gameplay

Criticom is a 2D fighting game played on a single plane. The game’s controls are simple and easy to learn, with players using a joystick or D-pad to move their character and a combination of buttons to attack, defend, and perform special moves.

One of the most unique aspects of Criticom is its “chain combo” system. This system allows players to string together multiple attacks into devastating combos. To perform a chain combo, players must first hit their opponent with a weak attack, which will stun them. The player can then follow up with a stronger attack, which will deal more damage. This process can be repeated multiple times, with each successive attack dealing more damage than the last.

Criticom also features a variety of different characters, each with their own unique playstyles and backstories. Some characters are more powerful than others, but all characters have their own strengths and weaknesses. Players must learn the different characters and their playstyles in order to succeed in the game.

Characters

There are eight different characters to choose from in Criticom. Each character has their own unique strengths, weaknesses, and backstory.

  • Aty: A young woman from the Aty tribe, Aty is a skilled fighter who uses her agility and speed to her advantage.
  • Bio: A member of the Bio tribe, Bio is a powerful fighter who uses his strength and durability to overwhelm his opponents.
  • Claudia: A member of the Claudia tribe, Claudia is a skilled martial artist who uses her speed and precision to defeat her opponents.
  • Gordo: A member of the Gordo tribe, Gordo is a large and powerful fighter who uses his strength and weight to his advantage.
  • Griff: A member of the Griff tribe, Griff is a skilled swordsman who uses his speed and agility to defeat his opponents.
  • Hi-Wave: A member of the Hi-Wave tribe, Hi-Wave is a skilled fighter who uses his psychic powers to defeat his opponents.
  • Neo: A member of the Neo tribe, Neo is a skilled fighter who uses his technology to defeat his opponents.
  • Zazie: A member of the Zazie tribe, Zazie is a skilled fighter who uses her speed and agility to defeat her opponents.

Story

The story of Criticom takes place in a futuristic world where eight different clans are vying for control of a powerful artifact known as the Relic. The Relic is said to possess great power, and the clans believe that whoever controls the Relic will control the world.

The player takes on the role of one of the eight fighters, and must battle their way through the game’s single-player mode in order to claim the Relic for their clan. Along the way, the player will learn more about the Relic and the different clans, and will ultimately decide which clan they want to side with.

Development

Criticom was developed by SNK, a Japanese video game company known for its fighting games. The game was directed by Takashi Nishiyama, who had previously worked on other SNK fighting games such as Fatal Fury and Art of Fighting.

Criticom was released in arcades in 1995, and was later ported to the Neo Geo home console. The game was a critical and commercial success, and is considered to be one of the best fighting games of its era.

Reception

Criticom was praised for its innovative gameplay, which featured a unique “chain combo” system that allowed players to string together multiple attacks into devastating combos. The game also featured a variety of different characters, each with their own unique playstyles and backstories.

Criticom was a critical and commercial success, and is considered to be one of the best fighting games of its era. The game has been ported to a variety of different platforms over the years, and is still enjoyed by fans of fighting games today.

Legacy

Criticom is a classic fighting game that is still enjoyed by fans of the genre today. The game’s innovative gameplay and diverse cast of characters make it a unique and memorable experience. Criticom is a must-play for any fan of fighting games.

Conclusion

Criticom is a classic fighting game that is still enjoyed by fans of the genre today. The game’s innovative gameplay and diverse cast of characters make it a unique and memorable experience. Criticom is a must-play for any fan of fighting games.

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

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