Summary
Kelly X: A Retro Sci-Fi Shooter That Still Packs a Punch
Released in 1989 for the MSX home computer, Kelly X is a top-down shooter game that puts players in the cockpit of a spaceship and tasks them with defending the galaxy from an alien invasion. With its challenging levels, intense gameplay, and catchy soundtrack, Kelly X quickly became a fan favorite and remains one of the most popular MSX games today.
Gameplay
Kelly X is a fast-paced, action-packed shooter game that is easy to learn but difficult to master. Players control a spaceship that is constantly moving forward, and they must use the joystick to dodge enemy fire and shoot down enemy spaceships. The game features a variety of different enemy types, each with their own unique attack patterns. Players must also contend with obstacles such as asteroids and space mines.
One of the things that makes Kelly X so challenging is its time limit. Each level must be completed within a certain amount of time, and if the player fails to do so, they will lose a life. This adds an extra layer of intensity to the gameplay and forces players to think strategically about how they approach each level.
Graphics and Sound
For a game released in 1989, Kelly X has impressive graphics and sound. The sprites are detailed and colorful, and the backgrounds are well-drawn. The game’s soundtrack is also top-notch, with a catchy main theme and a variety of other tracks that help to create a sense of atmosphere and excitement.
Story
Kelly X has a simple but effective story. The player takes on the role of Kelly, a young spaceship pilot who must defend the galaxy from an alien invasion. The game’s story is told through a series of cutscenes, which are well-written and help to add depth to the game’s characters and setting.
Legacy
Kelly X was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it remains one of the most popular MSX games today. The game has been praised for its challenging gameplay, intense action, and catchy soundtrack. Kelly X has also been ported to a number of other platforms, including the PC, Amiga, and Atari ST.
In addition to its commercial success, Kelly X has also had a significant impact on the video game industry. The game’s top-down shooter gameplay has been imitated by a number of other games, including the popular arcade game Robotron: 2084. Kelly X is also credited with helping to popularize the MSX computer in Europe.
Conclusion
Kelly X is a classic shooter game that still holds up today. With its challenging gameplay, intense action, and catchy soundtrack, Kelly X is a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re a long-time fan of MSX games or you’re just looking for a great shooter game to play, Kelly X is definitely worth checking out.
Additional Information
- Kelly X was developed by Piko Interactive and published by Konami.
- The game was originally released in Japan in 1989, and was later released in Europe and North America in 1990.
- Kelly X was ported to the PC, Amiga, and Atari ST in 1991.
- The game was re-released on the Wii Virtual Console in 2008.
- Kelly X is considered to be one of the best MSX games of all time.
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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