Summary
- Release Year: 1994
- Genres: Shooter
- Platforms: 3DO Interactive Multiplayer
Shock Wave (1994): A Nostalgic Journey into the Golden Age of Shoot-’em-Ups
Released in 1994, Shock Wave is an arcade-style shoot-’em-up that harkens back to the golden age of the genre. Developed by Iguana Entertainment and published by Electronic Arts, Shock Wave puts players in the cockpit of an F-177 fighter jet and tasks them with defending Earth from an alien invasion.
Gameplay
Shock Wave is a side-scrolling shoot-’em-up in which players control an F-177 fighter jet and must battle waves of alien enemies. The game features a variety of enemy types, including ground units, aerial units, and bosses. Players must use their lasers and missiles to destroy enemies, but they must also watch their ammunition and fuel levels and refill them from supply depots located throughout the levels.
Shock Wave features ten missions that take players all over the globe, from Cairo to Los Angeles to the Congo. Each mission has its own unique objectives, such as destroying enemy bases, rescuing hostages, or escorting supply convoys. Between missions, players are treated to live-action cutscenes that advance the story.
Graphics and Sound
For a game released in 1994, Shock Wave’s graphics are impressive. The game’s environments are detailed and varied, and the enemy designs are creative and menacing. The game’s soundtrack is also top-notch, with a mix of pulse-pounding techno and orchestral music that perfectly captures the game’s sense of urgency and excitement.
Difficulty
Shock Wave is a challenging game, but it’s also fair. The game’s difficulty curve is well-paced, and players are given plenty of opportunities to learn the game’s mechanics and improve their skills. The game also features a variety of difficulty settings, so players of all skill levels can enjoy it.
Legacy
Shock Wave was a critical and commercial success upon its release, and it is still considered one of the best shoot-’em-ups of all time. The game has been praised for its fast-paced gameplay, challenging missions, and epic live-action cutscenes. Shock Wave has also been cited as an influence on a number of later shoot-’em-ups, including the acclaimed Einhander (1997).
Conclusion
Shock Wave is a classic shoot-’em-up that is still fun to play today. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, challenging missions, and epic live-action cutscenes make it a must-play for any fan of the genre. Whether you’re a retro gaming enthusiast or a newcomer to the shoot-’em-up genre, Shock Wave is sure to provide hours of enjoyment.
Tips for Playing Shock Wave
- Use your lasers for small enemies and your missiles for large enemies.
- Be sure to watch your ammunition and fuel levels and refill them from supply depots when necessary.
- Don’t be afraid to use your special weapons, but save them for when you really need them.
- Learn the patterns of the enemy attacks and try to anticipate their movements.
- Practice makes perfect! The more you play Shock Wave, the better you will become at it.
Additional Information
- Shock Wave was originally released for the Sega Genesis and Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES). It was later ported to the PlayStation, Sega Saturn, and PC.
- The game was developed by Iguana Entertainment, a British video game developer founded in 1988. Iguana Entertainment is best known for developing the Turok and Star Wars: Shadows of the Empire games.
- Shock Wave was published by Electronic Arts (EA), an American video game publisher founded in 1982. EA is one of the largest video game publishers in the world.
- Shock Wave received positive reviews from critics upon its release. The game was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, challenging missions, and epic live-action cutscenes.
- Shock Wave was a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide.
- Shock Wave is still considered one of the best shoot-’em-ups of all time. The game has been cited as an influence on a number of later shoot-’em-ups, including the acclaimed Einhander (1997).
Review Score
8.5/10
