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

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

Profile photo of Christopher

Christopher has carved a niche for himself as an authority on retro pre-2000 computer games. With a passion that borders on reverence, Christopher delves deep into the pixelated past of gaming, unearthing gems and sharing insights that resonate with both nostalgic players and curious newcomers. His articles serve as a time machine, transporting readers back to an era where gameplay and creativity often trumped graphical fidelity. Cristopher's expertise isn't just in cataloging these classics; he analyzes their design, the context of their creation, and their impact on the gaming landscape, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of digital entertainment. Beyond mere retrospectives, Christopher champions the relevance of these retro games in today's high-definition world. He skillfully draws parallels between the foundational mechanics of yesteryear's titles and the modern gaming innovations they inspired. His work goes beyond mere preservation; it's an ongoing dialogue between the past and present of gaming. Christopher's content educates, entertains, and ignites discussions within the gaming community. His dedication not only keeps the legacy of pre-2000 games alive but also highlights their importance in shaping the future of video gaming.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More