Developer: Exact

Ghost in the Shell (1997)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Ghost in the Shell (1997): A Cyberpunk Classic

Released in 1997 for the PlayStation, Ghost in the Shell is a cyberpunk-themed third-person shooter video game developed by Exact and Production I.G. The game is based on the popular manga and anime series of the same name, and follows the story of a rookie member of Public Security Section 9 as he investigates and combats the Human Liberation Front, a terrorist group seeking to overthrow the government.

Players control a Fuchikoma, a robotic fighting vehicle capable of traversing walls and ceilings, as they battle their way through hordes of enemies. The game features a variety of weapons and gadgets, including machine guns, shotguns, grenades, and hacking tools. Players must use their wits and skills to overcome the game’s challenging levels and defeat the Human Liberation Front.

Ghost in the Shell was a critical and commercial success, and is considered to be one of the best cyberpunk video games ever made. The game’s unique setting, engaging story, and innovative gameplay have made it a cult classic among fans of the genre.

Setting

Ghost in the Shell is set in a futuristic cyberpunk world where technology has advanced to the point where humans can augment their bodies with cybernetic implants. This has led to a divide between the wealthy and powerful, who can afford to enhance themselves with the latest technology, and the poor and marginalized, who are left behind.

The game takes place in the city of New Port City, a sprawling metropolis where towering skyscrapers cast long shadows over the teeming streets below. The city is home to a variety of characters, from corporate executives and government officials to hackers and street urchins.

Story

The story of Ghost in the Shell follows a rookie member of Public Security Section 9 as he investigates and combats the Human Liberation Front, a terrorist group seeking to overthrow the government. The player character is joined by a team of skilled operatives, including the enigmatic Major Motoko Kusanagi, the cyborg Batou, and the hacker Ishikawa.

As the player progresses through the game, they will uncover a dark conspiracy that threatens the very fabric of society. The Human Liberation Front is not simply a terrorist group, but a front for a larger organization with sinister goals. The player character and their team must race against time to stop the Human Liberation Front and save the city from destruction.

Gameplay

Ghost in the Shell is a third-person shooter game in which the player controls a Fuchikoma, a robotic fighting vehicle capable of traversing walls and ceilings. The game features a variety of weapons and gadgets, including machine guns, shotguns, grenades, and hacking tools. Players must use their wits and skills to overcome the game’s challenging levels and defeat the Human Liberation Front.

One of the unique features of Ghost in the Shell is its hacking system. Players can hack into enemy systems to disable their weapons, open doors, and gather information. Hacking is essential for success in many of the game’s levels, and players must learn to use it effectively in order to progress.

Characters

Ghost in the Shell features a cast of memorable characters, each with their own unique skills and abilities.

  • Major Motoko Kusanagi is the leader of Public Security Section 9. She is a highly skilled cyborg with a mysterious past.
  • Batou is a cyborg member of Public Security Section 9. He is a powerful fighter and a loyal friend to Kusanagi.
  • Ishikawa is a hacker member of Public Security Section 9. He is a brilliant hacker and a valuable asset to the team.
  • Togusa is a human member of Public Security Section 9. He is a skilled detective and a close friend to Kusanagi.
  • Saito is the chief of Public Security Section 9. He is a wise and experienced leader.

Legacy

Ghost in the Shell was a critical and commercial success, and is considered to be one of the best cyberpunk video games ever made. The game’s unique setting, engaging story, and innovative gameplay have made it a cult classic among fans of the genre.

Ghost in the Shell has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, including the PC, Dreamcast, and PSP. The game has also been re-released on the PlayStation Network and Steam.

In 2004, a sequel to Ghost in the Shell was released for the PlayStation 2. The sequel, Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, was also a critical and commercial success.

Ghost in the Shell has had a lasting impact on the video game industry. The game’s unique setting and gameplay have inspired a number of other cyberpunk games, including Deus Ex and Cyberpunk 2077. Ghost in the Shell is a true classic of the cyberpunk genre, and it remains one of the most beloved and influential video games ever made.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Jumping Flash! (1995)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Jumping Flash! (1995): A Revolutionary Platform Adventure

Introduction

In the realm of video games, where innovation and creativity thrive, there are titles that transcend the boundaries of convention and leave an indelible mark on the industry. One such game is Jumping Flash! (1995), a groundbreaking platform adventure that captivated PlayStation owners with its unique first-person perspective and exhilarating gameplay.

Gameplay: A Thrilling Leap into the Unknown

Jumping Flash! distinguishes itself from its contemporaries by immersing players in a first-person perspective. This novel approach transforms the traditional platforming experience, creating a sense of immediacy and heightened immersion. Players control Robbit, a robotic rabbit on a mission to retrieve missing Jet Pods and thwart the nefarious Baron Aloha’s plan to plunge the world into desolate emptiness.

The game unfolds across a series of vibrant and imaginative worlds, each teeming with hidden Jet Pods and perilous obstacles. Robbit’s nimble movements and impressive jumping abilities allow him to navigate these environments with finesse, leaping over chasms, scaling walls, and dodging enemy fire.

Combat: A Symphony of Explosions and Acrobatic Maneuvers

Combat in Jumping Flash! is a frenetic blend of precision shooting and acrobatic maneuvers. Robbit is equipped with a variety of weapons, including a rapid-fire blaster, homing missiles, and devastating bombs. Players must master the art of dodging enemy fire while simultaneously unleashing a barrage of projectiles.

The game’s acrobatic elements add an extra layer of depth to the combat. Robbit can perform mid-air flips and rolls to evade enemy attacks and gain advantageous positions. This combination of shooting and platforming creates a thrilling and dynamic combat experience that keeps players on the edge of their seats.

Exploration: A Journey Through Fantastical Realms

Beyond its exhilarating combat, Jumping Flash! also shines in its exploration. The game’s worlds are meticulously crafted, offering a diverse range of environments to explore. From lush forests to treacherous volcanoes, each world presents unique challenges and secrets to uncover.

Hidden Jet Pods are scattered throughout the levels, encouraging players to explore every nook and cranny. Discovering these pods is essential to progress through the game and ultimately defeat Baron Aloha. Along the way, players will encounter a cast of quirky characters, each with their own unique story to tell.

Visuals: A Colorful and Vibrant World

Jumping Flash! boasts impressive visuals for its time. The PlayStation’s 3D capabilities are pushed to their limits, creating a colorful and vibrant world that immerses players in the game’s whimsical atmosphere. Robbit’s expressive animations and the detailed environments bring the game to life, enhancing the overall experience.

Sound: A Sonic Masterpiece

The game’s soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring a mix of upbeat and atmospheric tracks that perfectly complement the gameplay. Robbit’s iconic “Yahoo!” exclamation adds a touch of charm and personality to the game. The sound effects are equally well-crafted, creating a sense of urgency and excitement during combat sequences.

Legacy: A Pioneering Force in Gaming

Jumping Flash! was a critical and commercial success upon its release, selling over a million copies worldwide. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and memorable characters. The game’s unique first-person perspective paved the way for future platformers, inspiring titles such as Quake and GoldenEye 007.

The game’s legacy extends beyond its immediate impact. It played a significant role in popularizing the PlayStation console and helped establish Sony as a major player in the video game industry. Jumping Flash! remains a beloved classic among PlayStation enthusiasts and continues to inspire game developers to this day.

Conclusion

Jumping Flash! (1995) is a timeless masterpiece that revolutionized the platforming genre. Its unique first-person perspective, exhilarating combat, and imaginative exploration create an unforgettable gaming experience that continues to captivate players today. As a pioneering force in the industry, Jumping Flash!’s legacy as a groundbreaking platform adventure is secure, ensuring its place in the annals of gaming history.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

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