Summary
- Release Year: 1981
- Genres: Arcade, Shooter, Strategy
- Platforms: Arcade, SG-1000
- Developers: Compile, Sega Enterprises, Ltd.
Borderline (1981)
Borderline is a VIC Dual arcade game developed in 1980 by Sega. It is a shoot-’em-up in which the player controls a red jeep who must destroy the enemy refineries. The game is notable for its fast-paced gameplay, colorful graphics, and catchy soundtrack.
Gameplay
The player controls a red jeep that drives through a desert landscape, shooting at enemy refineries. The jeep can move left, right, and up, and can fire bullets in eight directions. The player must destroy all of the refineries in each level in order to progress to the next one.
The refineries are defended by a variety of enemies, including tanks, helicopters, and planes. The player must use their jeep’s agility and firepower to avoid enemy attacks and destroy the refineries.
The game becomes increasingly difficult as the player progresses, with more enemies and more difficult level layouts. The player must also contend with a time limit, which adds to the challenge.
Development
Borderline was developed by Sega’s arcade division, which was at the time led by Yu Suzuki. Suzuki had previously worked on Sega’s arcade hit Monaco GP, and he brought many of the same design principles to Borderline.
Borderline was one of the first arcade games to use a trackball for player input. This allowed for more precise control over the jeep, which was essential for the game’s fast-paced gameplay.
The game’s graphics were also advanced for its time. The desert landscape is rendered in vibrant colors, and the enemy sprites are large and detailed. The game also features a catchy soundtrack that helps to create a sense of excitement and urgency.
Release
Borderline was released in arcades in 1980. The game was a commercial success, and it was ported to the SG-1000 home console in 1983. The game has also been released as part of the Sega Ages 2500 series in Japan.
Reception
Borderline was well-received by critics upon its release. The game was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, colorful graphics, and catchy soundtrack. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 50,000 arcade cabinets worldwide.
Legacy
Borderline is considered to be one of the classic shoot-’em-ups of the early 1980s. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, colorful graphics, and catchy soundtrack have made it a favorite among retro gamers. The game has also been influential on later shoot-’em-ups, such as Commando and Ikari Warriors.
Conclusion
Borderline is a classic shoot-’em-up that still holds up today. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, colorful graphics, and catchy soundtrack make it a lot of fun to play. If you’re a fan of shoot-’em-ups, then you owe it to yourself to check out Borderline.
Review Score
7/10
