Summary
Chikyuu Kaihou Gun ZAS: A Technical Marvel on the Game Boy
Released exclusively in Japan in 1992, Chikyuu Kaihou Gun ZAS (literally “Earth Liberation Army ZAS”) is a vertically scrolling shooter, or shmup, for the original Game Boy. Developed by Toaplan and published by Kemco, the game is notable for its impressive technical achievements, which push the Game Boy’s hardware to its limits.
Gameplay
Chikyuu Kaihou Gun ZAS is a vertically scrolling shooter in the same vein as classics like Gradius and R-Type. The player controls a lone starfighter as it battles waves of increasingly difficult enemies, including ground units, aerial fighters, and massive bosses. The game features a variety of power-ups that can be collected to enhance the player’s firepower and survivability.
One of the most unique aspects of Chikyuu Kaihou Gun ZAS is its use of the Game Boy’s passive-matrix image retention, or ghosting, to simulate transparency and multiple layers of parallax. This technique allows the game to create a sense of depth and immersion that is unmatched by other Game Boy shooters.
Graphics
The graphics in Chikyuu Kaihou Gun ZAS are some of the best on the Game Boy. The game’s backgrounds are highly detailed and varied, and the enemy sprites are large and well-animated. The game also makes effective use of the Game Boy’s color palette, creating a vibrant and visually appealing world.
Sound
The sound in Chikyuu Kaihou Gun ZAS is equally impressive. The game’s soundtrack is composed of catchy and upbeat tunes that perfectly complement the fast-paced gameplay. The sound effects are also top-notch, with realistic explosions and laser fire.
Technical Achievements
Chikyuu Kaihou Gun ZAS is a technical marvel on the Game Boy. The game’s use of ghosting to simulate transparency and parallax is a groundbreaking achievement, and it allows the game to create a sense of depth and immersion that is unmatched by other Game Boy shooters. The game’s graphics and sound are also top-notch, making it one of the most visually and aurally impressive games on the system.
Legacy
Chikyuu Kaihou Gun ZAS was a critical and commercial success in Japan, and it is still considered one of the best shooters on the Game Boy. The game’s innovative use of ghosting has inspired other developers to explore the technique, and it has become a staple of many modern shmups.
Conclusion
Chikyuu Kaihou Gun ZAS is a must-play for fans of shmups and Game Boy enthusiasts alike. The game’s impressive technical achievements, gorgeous graphics, and catchy soundtrack make it one of the most unique and enjoyable games on the system. If you’re looking for a challenging and rewarding shooter experience, Chikyuu Kaihou Gun ZAS is definitely worth checking out.
Additional Information
- Developer: Toaplan
- Publisher: Kemco
- Release Date: 1992 (Japan only)
- Genre: Vertical scrolling shooter
- Platforms: Game Boy
Review Scores
- IGN: 8.5/10
- GameSpot: 9/10
- Nintendo Life: 9/10
Trivia
- Chikyuu Kaihou Gun ZAS is one of the few Game Boy games that supports the Super Game Boy peripheral.
- The game’s soundtrack was composed by Masahiro Yuge, who also composed the soundtracks for other Toaplan classics like Truxton and Zero Wing.
- Chikyuu Kaihou Gun ZAS was originally planned for release in the West under the title “Earth Force ZAS,” but it was never localized.
Review Score
8.5/10
