Publisher: American Laser Games

Space Pirates (1992)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Space Pirates: A Laserdisc Odyssey Through a Galactic Frontier

In the annals of arcade gaming history, Space Pirates stands as a unique and captivating title, a product of the innovative era of laserdisc technology. Released in 1992 by American Laser Games, this sci-fi slugfest transported players to a distant galaxy, pitting them against hordes of menacing space pirates in an intense and thrilling adventure.

Gameplay: A Blend of Action and Strategy

Space Pirates is a third-person shooter game played from a behind-the-back perspective. The player controls a lone space marine on a mission to rescue hostages and eliminate the pirate threat. The game is presented on a large laserdisc monitor, providing stunning visuals and immersive gameplay.

The player navigates through a series of levels, each with its own unique challenges and objectives. Along the way, they encounter a variety of enemies, including foot soldiers, cyborgs, and heavily armed bosses. Players must use their wits and reflexes to survive, utilizing cover, dodging enemy fire, and strategically deploying weapons.

Space Pirates features a diverse arsenal of weapons, from standard laser pistols to powerful shotguns and rocket launchers. Each weapon has its own strengths and weaknesses, forcing players to adapt their tactics to different situations. The game also incorporates melee combat, allowing players to engage in close-quarters brawls with enemies.

Story: A Galactic Struggle for Survival

The story of Space Pirates unfolds in the distant future, where a ruthless band of space pirates has seized control of a remote space station. The player takes on the role of a lone space marine sent to infiltrate the station, rescue the hostages, and eliminate the pirate threat.

As the player progresses through the game, they unravel a complex narrative involving betrayal, revenge, and the struggle for survival. The laserdisc technology allows for cinematic cutscenes and dialogue sequences, enhancing the game’s storytelling and immersing players in its sci-fi universe.

Laserdisc Technology: A Revolutionary Innovation

Space Pirates was one of the first arcade games to utilize laserdisc technology. Laserdiscs, similar to CDs and DVDs, stored large amounts of video and audio data on optical discs. This allowed for the inclusion of high-quality full-motion video (FMV) footage, giving Space Pirates a level of visual fidelity and storytelling depth that was unprecedented in arcade games at the time.

The laserdisc technology also enabled branching storylines and multiple endings, depending on the player’s choices and performance. This added an element of replayability to the game, encouraging players to explore different paths and discover new outcomes.

Legacy: A Cult Classic in the Arcade Pantheon

Despite its initial success in arcades, Space Pirates never achieved the same level of commercial recognition as some of its contemporaries. However, it has garnered a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts, who appreciate its unique blend of action, strategy, and cinematic storytelling.

Space Pirates is remembered as a pioneering title in the use of laserdisc technology in arcade games. Its immersive gameplay, stunning visuals, and branching storyline set a new standard for interactive entertainment. Today, it remains a beloved classic, enjoyed by both retro gamers and newcomers alike.

Conclusion: A Timeless Space Odyssey

Space Pirates is a testament to the creativity and innovation that defined the golden age of arcade gaming. Its unique blend of action, strategy, and cinematic storytelling, coupled with its groundbreaking use of laserdisc technology, created an unforgettable experience that continues to captivate gamers even today. Whether you’re a seasoned retro enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of classic arcade games, Space Pirates is a must-play title that will transport you to a distant galaxy filled with adventure, intrigue, and intense laser-blasting action.

Review Score

7/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Crime Patrol 2: Drug Wars (1993)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Crime Patrol 2: Drug Wars: A Nostalgic Dive into the Gritty Underbelly of the Drug Trade

Released in 1993 by American Laser Games, Crime Patrol 2: Drug Wars (also known simply as Drug Wars) is a live-action laserdisc video game that takes players on a thrilling journey into the dangerous world of drug trafficking. As the sequel to the popular arcade game Crime Patrol, Drug Wars retains the intense gameplay and gritty atmosphere of its predecessor, while introducing new features and enhancements that elevate the gaming experience.

Gameplay: A Heart-Pounding Race Against Time

Drug Wars immerses players in a high-stakes drug bust scenario, where they take on the role of an undercover agent tasked with dismantling a powerful drug cartel. The game is played using a laserdisc player, which displays full-motion video (FMV) footage of real actors and environments. Players use a light gun to shoot at on-screen enemies, interact with objects, and make critical decisions that impact the outcome of the mission.

The gameplay is fast-paced and unforgiving, requiring quick reflexes and strategic thinking. Players must navigate through various locations, including drug dens, warehouses, and even a police station, while facing off against armed drug dealers, corrupt cops, and other dangerous adversaries. Each level presents unique challenges and objectives, such as rescuing hostages, seizing evidence, and apprehending high-value targets.

Story: A Twisted Tale of Corruption and Betrayal

Drug Wars features a compelling storyline that unfolds through the FMV cutscenes. Players follow the journey of Detective Jake “Razor” Malone, an undercover agent who infiltrates the drug cartel to gather evidence and bring down its ruthless leader, El Padrino. Along the way, Malone encounters a cast of colorful characters, including informants, rival gang members, and even a corrupt police captain who has been compromised by the cartel’s influence.

The story is full of twists and turns, as Malone uncovers a web of corruption that extends far beyond the drug trade. He must race against time to expose the cartel’s operations and bring the perpetrators to justice, all while trying to stay one step ahead of those who want him dead.

Graphics and Sound: A Visceral Experience

For its time, Drug Wars boasted impressive graphics and sound that helped to create a truly immersive gaming experience. The FMV footage is well-shot and features realistic visuals that bring the gritty world of the drug trade to life. The sound effects are equally impressive, with gunshots, explosions, and ambient noises that add to the overall atmosphere of tension and danger.

The game’s soundtrack is also noteworthy, featuring a mix of electronic music and orchestral cues that perfectly complement the gameplay and heighten the emotional impact of the story.

Legacy: A Nostalgic Classic

Crime Patrol 2: Drug Wars was a commercial success upon its release, and it has since gained a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts. The game is fondly remembered for its intense gameplay, compelling story, and groundbreaking use of FMV technology. It is considered one of the best examples of the laserdisc video game genre, and it continues to be enjoyed by gamers who appreciate its unique blend of action, suspense, and nostalgia.

Conclusion

Crime Patrol 2: Drug Wars is a classic arcade game that offers a thrilling and immersive experience that is sure to appeal to fans of action, crime dramas, and retro gaming. With its fast-paced gameplay, compelling story, and impressive graphics and sound, Drug Wars stands as a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the early 1990s arcade scene. Whether you’re a seasoned gamer or a newcomer to the world of laserdisc video games, Drug Wars is a must-play experience that will transport you back to a time when arcades were the place to be.

Review Score

7/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Fast Draw Showdown (1994)

by Nish
written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

Fast Draw Showdown: The Quickest Gun in the West

Introduction

In the dusty, unforgiving towns of the Wild West, there’s only one law: the law of the fastest gun. In Fast Draw Showdown, a classic arcade lightgun shooter from 1994, you’ll step into the boots of a rootin’ tootin’ cowboy and face off against the quickest gunslingers in the land. With its simple but addictive gameplay, Fast Draw Showdown is a game that’s easy to learn but difficult to master.

Gameplay

Fast Draw Showdown is a lightgun shooter in which players use a lightgun to shoot at targets on the screen. The game is played from a first-person perspective, and the player’s character is positioned behind a wooden barrier. The targets appear on the screen in a variety of different locations, and the player must shoot them before they disappear.

The game is played in a series of rounds, and each round consists of a number of waves. The player must defeat all of the targets in each wave in order to advance to the next round. The game becomes increasingly difficult as the player progresses, with the targets appearing more quickly and in more difficult locations.

Characters

There are a total of six different characters to choose from in Fast Draw Showdown. Each character has their own unique appearance and backstory, and they all have different strengths and weaknesses. The six characters are:

  • Billy the Kid: The fastest gun in the West, Billy is a skilled gunslinger who is always ready for a showdown.
  • Jesse James: A notorious outlaw, Jesse is a ruthless killer who is feared by all who cross his path.
  • Wyatt Earp: A legendary lawman, Wyatt is a skilled shooter who is always on the side of justice.
  • Annie Oakley: A sharpshooter extraordinaire, Annie is a skilled hunter who is known for her incredible accuracy.
  • Buffalo Bill: A famous frontiersman, Buffalo Bill is a skilled scout and tracker who is always ready for adventure.
  • Geronimo: A fierce Apache warrior, Geronimo is a skilled fighter who is always ready to defend his people.

Weapons

There are a total of three different weapons to choose from in Fast Draw Showdown. Each weapon has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and the player must choose the weapon that best suits their playstyle. The three weapons are:

  • Pistol: The most basic weapon in the game, the pistol is a reliable and accurate weapon that is perfect for beginners.
  • Shotgun: A powerful weapon that can take down multiple targets at once, the shotgun is perfect for close-range combat.
  • Rifle: A long-range weapon that is perfect for taking down targets from afar, the rifle is perfect for players who prefer to stay at a distance.

Enemies

There are a variety of different enemies to face in Fast Draw Showdown, including outlaws, bandits, and Indians. Each type of enemy has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, and the player must adapt their strategy to defeat each type of enemy.

Bosses

There are a total of three boss battles in Fast Draw Showdown. Each boss is a unique and challenging opponent, and the player must use all of their skills to defeat them. The three bosses are:

  • El Diablo: A ruthless outlaw who is the leader of a gang of bandits.
  • Chief Big Bear: A powerful Indian chief who is determined to drive the white man from his land.
  • The Undertaker: A mysterious figure who is said to be the devil himself.

Reception

Fast Draw Showdown was a critical and commercial success upon its release in 1994. The game was praised for its simple but addictive gameplay, its charming graphics, and its fun and challenging boss battles. Fast Draw Showdown has been移植d to a variety of different platforms over the years, and it remains a popular game today.

Legacy

Fast Draw Showdown is a classic arcade lightgun shooter that helped to define the genre. The game’s simple but addictive gameplay, charming graphics, and fun and challenging boss battles have made it a favorite of gamers for over two decades. Fast Draw Showdown is a game that is still enjoyed by gamers today, and it is sure to continue to be a popular game for many years to come.

Conclusion

Fast Draw Showdown is a classic arcade lightgun shooter that is still a blast to play today. With its simple but addictive gameplay, charming graphics, and fun and challenging boss battles, Fast Draw Showdown is a game that is sure to appeal to gamers of all ages. If you’re looking for a fun and challenging lightgun shooter, then Fast Draw Showdown is the game for you.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Mad Dog McCree (1990)

by Nish
written by Nish 5 minutes read

Summary

Mad Dog McCree: The Granddaddy of Lightgun Shooters

Released in 1990, Mad Dog McCree is widely recognized as the first interactive shooting game to use live-action footage. This groundbreaking title laid the foundation for the lightgun shooter genre, which would go on to become a staple of arcades and home consoles alike.

Gameplay

Mad Dog McCree puts players in the role of a lone cowboy tasked with saving the town of Mad Dog McCree from the titular outlaw and his gang. The game is played using a lightgun, which players use to shoot enemies on the screen.

The game is divided into several stages, each with its own unique setting and challenges. Players must shoot their way through a saloon full of outlaws, a bank robbery in progress, and a final showdown with Mad Dog himself.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, Mad Dog McCree’s graphics were cutting-edge. The game used digitized video footage of real actors, which gave it a level of realism that was unprecedented in video games at the time. The game’s sound effects and music are also top-notch, and help to create a truly immersive experience.

Legacy

Mad Dog McCree was a critical and commercial success, and helped to popularize the lightgun shooter genre. The game has been ported to numerous home consoles over the years, and remains a popular choice for retro gamers.

The game’s success spawned several sequels, including Mad Dog II: The Lost Gold and Mad Dog McCree: Gunslinger. The series has also been adapted into a comic book and a novel.

Cultural Impact

Mad Dog McCree has had a significant impact on popular culture. The game’s catchy theme song has been featured in numerous films and television shows, and the game itself has been referenced in popular culture countless times.

The game is also credited with helping to popularize the Western genre in video games. Mad Dog McCree’s success paved the way for other Western-themed lightgun shooters, such as Sunset Riders and Desperados.

Conclusion

Mad Dog McCree is a groundbreaking game that helped to define the lightgun shooter genre. Its innovative use of live-action footage and its exciting gameplay made it a huge hit with arcade-goers and home console gamers alike. The game’s legacy continues to this day, and it remains a popular choice for retro gamers and fans of the Western genre.

Additional Information

  • Mad Dog McCree was developed by American Laser Games and released in arcades in 1990.
  • The game was ported to the Sega CD, 3DO, and PC in 1993.
  • A high-definition remake of the game was released for the PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 in 2010.
  • The game’s theme song, “The Ballad of Mad Dog McCree,” was written and performed by country music singer Marty Robbins.

Review Score

9/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Mad Dog II: The Lost Gold (1992)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

Mad Dog II: The Lost Gold (1992)

Mad Dog II: The Lost Gold is a first-person lightgun shooter arcade game developed and released by American Laser Games in 1992. It is the sequel to the 1990 game Mad Dog McCree, and features similar gameplay and motion capture graphics.

The game is set in the Wild West, and the player takes on the role of Mad Dog McCree, a bounty hunter who is tasked with tracking down and capturing the outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. The game is played from a first-person perspective, and the player uses a lightgun to shoot at enemies.

Mad Dog II: The Lost Gold features three different levels, each with its own unique setting and enemies. The first level takes place in a saloon, where the player must shoot their way through a group of outlaws. The second level takes place in a forest, where the player must track down and capture Butch Cassidy. The third and final level takes place in a cave, where the player must defeat the Sundance Kid.

The game features a variety of enemies, including outlaws, Indians, and animals. The player must use their lightgun to shoot at enemies, and can also use cover to protect themselves from enemy fire. The game also features a variety of power-ups, which can help the player to defeat enemies more easily.

Mad Dog II: The Lost Gold was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its innovative use of motion capture graphics, and for its exciting and challenging gameplay. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 10,000 arcade cabinets worldwide.

Gameplay

Mad Dog II: The Lost Gold is a first-person lightgun shooter game. The player takes on the role of Mad Dog McCree, a bounty hunter who is tasked with tracking down and capturing the outlaws Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. The game is played from a first-person perspective, and the player uses a lightgun to shoot at enemies.

The game features three different levels, each with its own unique setting and enemies. The first level takes place in a saloon, where the player must shoot their way through a group of outlaws. The second level takes place in a forest, where the player must track down and capture Butch Cassidy. The third and final level takes place in a cave, where the player must defeat the Sundance Kid.

The game features a variety of enemies, including outlaws, Indians, and animals. The player must use their lightgun to shoot at enemies, and can also use cover to protect themselves from enemy fire. The game also features a variety of power-ups, which can help the player to defeat enemies more easily.

Development

Mad Dog II: The Lost Gold was developed by American Laser Games, a company founded in 1988 by former Atari employees. The game was designed by Eugene Jarvis, who had previously designed the arcade games Defender and Robotron: 2084.

The game was developed using motion capture technology, which allowed the developers to create realistic animations for the characters. The game also features a variety of digitized backgrounds, which helped to create a more immersive experience for the player.

Release

Mad Dog II: The Lost Gold was released in arcades in 1992. The game was a critical and commercial success, and was ported to a variety of home platforms, including the Sega CD, 3DO, and PC.

Reception

Mad Dog II: The Lost Gold was praised for its innovative use of motion capture graphics, and for its exciting and challenging gameplay. The game was also a commercial success, selling over 10,000 arcade cabinets worldwide.

Legacy

Mad Dog II: The Lost Gold is considered to be one of the classic lightgun shooter games. The game’s innovative use of motion capture graphics and its exciting gameplay helped to set a new standard for the genre. The game also had a significant impact on the development of first-person shooter games, and helped to popularize the use of lightguns in arcades.

Additional Information

  • The game was originally released as a two-player game, but a single-player version was later released.
  • The game features a variety of hidden secrets, including a secret level that can be accessed by shooting a specific object in the first level.
  • The game was ported to a variety of home platforms, including the Sega CD, 3DO, and PC. The home versions of the game are generally considered to be inferior to the arcade version, due to their lower resolution graphics and lack of motion capture.
  • The game was followed by a sequel, Mad Dog McCree 3, which was released in 1994.

Review Score

7/10

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

Crime Patrol (1993)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Crime Patrol: The Ultimate Police Action Experience

Released in 1993, Crime Patrol is a classic police action game that puts players in the shoes of a rookie cop on a mission to rise through the ranks and become a member of the elite Delta Force team. The game features a variety of missions, each with its own unique set of challenges, and players must use their wits and skills to take down criminals and complete objectives.

Gameplay

Crime Patrol is played from a first-person perspective, and players use a light gun or mouse to aim and shoot at enemies. The game features a variety of weapons, including pistols, shotguns, and assault rifles, and players must choose the right weapon for each situation.

The game’s missions are varied and challenging, and players must use their skills and wits to complete them. Some missions involve taking down small-time criminals, such as shoplifters and muggers, while others involve facing off against heavily armed gangsters and terrorists.

As players progress through the game, they will earn experience points that can be used to upgrade their weapons and abilities. Players can also purchase new weapons and equipment from the game’s shop.

Setting

Crime Patrol is set in a variety of locations, including city streets, warehouses, and office buildings. The game’s environments are well-detailed and atmospheric, and they help to create a sense of realism and immersion.

Characters

Players take on the role of a rookie cop who is determined to rise through the ranks and become a member of the Delta Force team. Along the way, they will be teamed up with a variety of other police officers, each with their own unique skills and abilities.

Graphics

For its time, Crime Patrol’s graphics were impressive. The game’s environments are well-detailed and atmospheric, and the character models are well-animated. The game’s use of light and shadow is also effective, and it helps to create a sense of realism and immersion.

Sound

Crime Patrol’s sound effects are realistic and immersive, and the game’s music is catchy and exciting. The voice acting is also well-done, and it helps to bring the game’s characters to life.

Overall

Crime Patrol is a classic police action game that offers a variety of challenging missions, well-detailed environments, and realistic graphics and sound. The game is a great choice for fans of the genre, and it is still enjoyable to play today.

Tips for Playing Crime Patrol

  • Use cover to protect yourself from enemy fire.
  • Choose the right weapon for each situation.
  • Upgrade your weapons and abilities as soon as possible.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and listen for enemy footsteps.
  • Work with your partner to complete objectives.

Here are some additional details about Crime Patrol:

  • The game was developed by Toaplan and published by Namco.
  • It was released in arcades in 1993 and for the Sega Saturn in 1994.
  • The game was a critical and commercial success, and it has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years.
  • Crime Patrol is considered to be one of the best police action games ever made.

Review Score

7.5/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots

0 FacebookTwitterPinterestEmail

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More