Summary
Orguss (1984)
Orguss is a shoot-’em-up game developed and published by Sega for the SG-1000. It was released in Japan on December 20, 1984, and is based on the science fiction anime series Super Dimension Century Orguss.
The player takes control of a robot named Orguss, which can transform into a starship. The game is played across a variety of levels, each with its own unique set of enemies and obstacles. The player must use Orguss’s different modes to overcome these challenges and progress through the game.
In robot mode, Orguss is able to destroy ground targets and has greater freedom across the screen. However, it is also a bigger target for enemies and moves more slowly. In starship mode, Orguss cannot destroy ground targets, but is less likely to be destroyed thanks to its smaller surface area. It can also move faster, but cannot shoot as rapidly.
The player can switch between robot and starship modes freely, and must use both modes strategically to succeed. For example, the player may use robot mode to destroy ground targets and then switch to starship mode to avoid enemy fire.
Orguss was a critical and commercial success, and is considered one of the best shoot-’em-up games on the SG-1000. It is also notable for its unique gameplay mechanic, which allows the player to switch between robot and starship modes.
Gameplay
Orguss is a side-scrolling shoot-’em-up game. The player controls Orguss, a robot that can transform into a starship. The player must use Orguss’s different modes to overcome a variety of enemies and obstacles.
In robot mode, Orguss can shoot rapidfire, but moves more slowly. It can also destroy ground targets. In starship mode, Orguss cannot destroy ground targets, but moves faster and is less likely to be destroyed. It can also shoot in four directions.
The player can switch between robot and starship modes freely. This allows the player to use the strengths of each mode to overcome different challenges. For example, the player may use robot mode to destroy ground targets and then switch to starship mode to avoid enemy fire.
The game is played across a variety of levels, each with its own unique set of enemies and obstacles. The player must use Orguss’s different modes to overcome these challenges and progress through the game.
Development
Orguss was developed by Sega for the SG-1000. It was released in Japan on December 20, 1984. The game was based on the science fiction anime series Super Dimension Century Orguss.
The game was designed by Yu Suzuki, who would later go on to create other classic Sega games such as Out Run and Shenmue. Suzuki was inspired by the anime series, and wanted to create a game that would capture its unique blend of action and science fiction.
Reception
Orguss was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, beautiful graphics, and challenging difficulty. The game was also a hit with fans of the anime series.
Orguss is considered one of the best shoot-’em-up games on the SG-1000. It is also notable for its unique gameplay mechanic, which allows the player to switch between robot and starship modes.
Legacy
Orguss had a spiritual sequel in the form of TransBot, which was released for the Sega Master System in 1985. TransBot featured similar gameplay to Orguss, but with improved graphics and sound.
Orguss has also been ported to a number of other platforms, including the Sega Genesis, the Sega Saturn, and the PlayStation 2.
The game remains popular with fans of shoot-’em-up games and anime fans alike. It is a classic example of Sega’s early arcade-style games, and is still enjoyed by many today.
Review Score
8/10
