Summary
- Release Year: 1994
- Genres: Simulator, Visual Novel
- Platforms: PC (Microsoft Windows), Sega CD
- Developers: The Code Monkeys
- Publishers: Sega, Tec Toy
Tomcat Alley: The Last of Sega’s TruVideo Classics
Released in 1994, Tomcat Alley was one of the last games in Sega’s TruVideo series for the SegaCD. TruVideo games were known for their use of full-motion video (FMV) footage, which gave them a more realistic look and feel than traditional sprite-based games. Tomcat Alley was one of the most ambitious TruVideo games, featuring a large number of FMV sequences and a complex branching storyline.
Gameplay
Tomcat Alley is a dogfighting game in which the player takes control of an F-14 Tomcat fighter jet. The game features a variety of missions, including air-to-air combat, bombing runs, and escort missions. The player can use a variety of weapons to defeat their enemies, including missiles, bombs, and guns.
One of the unique features of Tomcat Alley is its use of “Active Matrix” software. This software allows for a wide range of outcomes to any given situation. For example, the player’s choice of weapons and tactics will affect the outcome of each mission. This makes Tomcat Alley a very replayable game, as there are many different ways to complete each mission.
Story
Tomcat Alley is set in the near future, where a renegade Soviet commander is threatening the United States with chemical weapons. The player is tasked with stopping the commander and his forces. The game’s story is told through a series of FMV cutscenes, which feature live actors and high-quality production values.
Graphics
Tomcat Alley’s graphics are some of the best on the SegaCD. The game’s FMV sequences are particularly impressive, and they help to create a realistic and immersive experience. The game’s 3D graphics are also very good, and they provide a smooth and detailed representation of the game world.
Sound
Tomcat Alley’s sound is also top-notch. The game’s music is catchy and exciting, and it helps to create a sense of urgency and excitement. The game’s sound effects are also very good, and they help to create a realistic and immersive experience.
Overall
Tomcat Alley is a classic dogfighting game that is still enjoyable today. The game’s innovative use of Active Matrix software, its complex branching storyline, and its impressive graphics and sound make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Review
Tomcat Alley is a great dogfighting game that is still enjoyable today. The game’s innovative use of Active Matrix software, its complex branching storyline, and its impressive graphics and sound make it a must-play for fans of the genre.
Score: 8.5/10
Pros:
- Innovative use of Active Matrix software
- Complex branching storyline
- Impressive graphics and sound
- Replayable gameplay
Cons:
- Some missions can be difficult
- FMV sequences can be choppy at times
Review Score
7.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
