Summary
- Release Year: 1997
- Genres: Platform, Shooter
- Platforms: PlayStation, PlayStation 3, Sega Saturn
- Developers: Treasure
- Publishers: ESP Software, HAMSTER Corporation, Working Designs
Silhouette Mirage: A Unique Side-Scrolling Action Game with a Compelling Story
Released in 1997 for the Sega Saturn, Silhouette Mirage is a side-scrolling action game with a unique concept and compelling story. Players control Shyna Nera Shyna, a young girl who must use her powers to restore balance to the world after a genetic explosion contaminates the genetic structure of life on Earth.
The game’s standout feature is its concept of two attributes, Silhouette and Mirage. Silhouette represents darkness and destruction, while Mirage represents light and hope. Enemies in the game have either Silhouette or Mirage attributes, and the type of attack Shyna uses will determine how much damage she does and whether or not she can absorb spirit (equivalent to magic power) from them.
For example, using a Silhouette attack on a Silhouette enemy will do more damage and absorb spirit, while using a Mirage attack on a Mirage enemy will do less damage and not absorb any spirit. This adds a layer of strategy to the combat, as players must carefully consider which type of attack to use on each enemy.
In addition to her basic attacks, Shyna can also dash, jump, crouch, slide, and grab enemies, executing combo attacks. She can also master moves, acquire money, and purchase special creatures called “parasites”, which teach Shyna various types of attacks.
The game’s story is told through a series of cutscenes and dialogue sequences. The story is well-written and engaging, and it does a good job of fleshing out the characters and their motivations.
The graphics in Silhouette Mirage are impressive for the time. The character sprites are large and detailed, and the backgrounds are colorful and varied. The game also features some impressive special effects, such as the screen-filling explosions when Shyna uses her special attacks.
The music in Silhouette Mirage is also top-notch. The soundtrack is composed of a mix of techno and rock tracks that perfectly capture the game’s atmosphere.
Overall, Silhouette Mirage is a well-made and enjoyable side-scrolling action game with a unique concept and compelling story. The game’s fast-paced combat, innovative gameplay, and impressive graphics and music make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Gameplay
Silhouette Mirage is a side-scrolling action game in which players control Shyna Nera Shyna, a young girl who must use her powers to restore balance to the world. The game features a unique concept of two attributes, Silhouette and Mirage. Enemies in the game have either Silhouette or Mirage attributes, and the type of attack Shyna uses will determine how much damage she does and whether or not she can absorb spirit (equivalent to magic power) from them.
In addition to her basic attacks, Shyna can also dash, jump, crouch, slide, and grab enemies, executing combo attacks. She can also master moves, acquire money, and purchase special creatures called “parasites”, which teach Shyna various types of attacks.
The game’s levels are varied and challenging, and they feature a variety of enemies and bosses. Shyna must use all of her skills and abilities to defeat her enemies and progress through the game.
Story
The story of Silhouette Mirage is told through a series of cutscenes and dialogue sequences. The story is well-written and engaging, and it does a good job of fleshing out the characters and their motivations.
The game’s story begins in the year 2000, after a group of scientists conduct genetic experiments that result in a biological explosion. The explosion contaminates the genetic structure of life on Earth, and two attributes emerge from the ruins: Silhouette and Mirage.
Silhouette represents darkness and destruction, while Mirage represents light and hope. The two attributes are fundamentally opposed in their nature and ideology, and they cannot exist without each other.
Only a Messenger, one who contains both attributes in a balance, is able to get to the Edo facility and reverse back the genetic disaster, destroying both Silhouette and Mirage. This messenger is a young girl named Shyna Nera Shyna.
Shyna sets out on a journey to find the Edo facility and restore balance to the world. Along the way, she meets a variety of allies and enemies, and she learns more about the true nature of Silhouette and Mirage.
Graphics
The graphics in Silhouette Mirage are impressive for the time. The character sprites are large and detailed, and the backgrounds are colorful and varied. The game also features some impressive special effects, such as the screen-filling explosions when Shyna uses her special attacks.
Music
The music in Silhouette Mirage is also top-notch. The soundtrack is composed of a mix of techno and rock tracks that perfectly capture the game’s atmosphere.
Reception
Silhouette Mirage was released to critical acclaim. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, unique concept, and impressive graphics and music. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 500,000 copies worldwide.
Legacy
Silhouette Mirage is considered to be one of the best side-scrolling action games ever made. The game’s unique concept, innovative gameplay, and impressive graphics and music have made it a cult classic among fans of the genre.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
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