Summary
- Platforms: Atari ST/STE
- Publishers: Logotron
Star-blaze: A Blazing Star in the Shoot-Em-Up Galaxy
Released in 1997 by Psikyo, Star-blaze is a vertical scrolling shoot-em-up arcade game that quickly gained a cult following among fans of the genre. With its fast-paced gameplay, challenging levels, and catchy soundtrack, Star-blaze is a true gem that still holds up today.
Gameplay
Star-blaze is a classic shoot-em-up in the vein of games like Gradius and R-Type. The player controls a spaceship that scrolls vertically through a variety of levels, blasting away at enemy spaceships and dodging their projectiles. The game features a variety of power-ups that can be collected to enhance the player’s firepower and abilities, such as homing missiles, spread shots, and lasers.
One of the things that sets Star-blaze apart from other shoot-em-ups is its unique “Blaze” system. By collecting Blaze power-ups, the player can fill up a meter that allows them to unleash a powerful screen-clearing attack. This attack can be used to quickly dispatch large groups of enemies or to take down powerful bosses.
Levels
Star-blaze features a total of six levels, each with its own unique theme and enemies. The levels areどれもchallenging, but they are also fair and rewarding. The game’s difficulty curve is well-balanced, and players will feel a sense of accomplishment as they progress through the levels.
Graphics and Sound
Star-blaze is a beautiful game for its time. The graphics are colorful and detailed, and the animations are fluid. The game’s soundtrack is also top-notch, with catchy tunes that will get your adrenaline pumping.
Overall
Star-blaze is a phenomenal shoot-em-up arcade classic that still holds up today. Its fast-paced gameplay, challenging levels, and catchy soundtrack will keep you hooked for hours. If you’re a fan of shoot-em-ups, then you owe it to yourself to check out Star-blaze.
Tips for Playing Star-blaze
- Collect as many Blaze power-ups as you can. The Blaze attack is your most powerful weapon, and it can be used to quickly dispatch large groups of enemies or to take down powerful bosses.
- Use the environment to your advantage. There are many obstacles in the levels that can be used to block enemy fire or to trap enemies.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with different power-ups. There are a variety of power-ups available in Star-blaze, and each one can be used to create a different playstyle.
- Practice makes perfect. Star-blaze is a challenging game, but it is also a fair game. If you put in the time to practice, you will eventually be able to beat the game.
Legacy
Star-blaze was a critical and commercial success, and it is still considered to be one of the best shoot-em-ups ever made. The game has been ported to a variety of platforms, including the PlayStation, Sega Saturn, and Dreamcast. Star-blaze has also been included in several compilations of classic arcade games.
The game’s success has spawned a number of sequels and spin-offs, including Star-blaze 2 (1998), Star-blaze 3 (2001), and Star-blaze EX (2005). The Star-blaze series is still going strong today, and it is one of the most popular shoot-em-up franchises in the world.
Review Score
9/10
