Publisher: Sega Europe

Bonanza Bros. (1990)

by Nish
written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

Bonanza Bros.: The Ultimate Guide to Robbing Banks and Museums

Released in 1990, Bonanza Bros. is a classic arcade beat-’em-up game that puts players in control of two anthropomorphic robots, Mobo and Robo, as they rob banks and museums. The game is known for its fast-paced gameplay, challenging levels, and catchy music.

Gameplay

Bonanza Bros. is a side-scrolling beat-’em-up game in which players control Mobo and Robo as they fight their way through hordes of enemies to reach the end of each level. The game features a variety of enemies, including security guards, police officers, and even giant robots. Players can use a variety of punches, kicks, and special attacks to defeat their enemies.

In addition to fighting enemies, players must also collect gold coins and other valuables scattered throughout each level. These valuables can be used to purchase power-ups and extra lives.

Levels

Bonanza Bros. features a total of 50 levels, each of which is set in a different location, such as a bank, a museum, or a construction site. Each level is filled with enemies and obstacles, and players must use their skills and wits to overcome them all.

Some of the most challenging levels in Bonanza Bros. include the bank vault level, which is filled with laser beams and security cameras, and the construction site level, which features a giant crane that can crush players.

Characters

Mobo and Robo are the two playable characters in Bonanza Bros. Mobo is the red robot, and Robo is the blue robot. The two robots have different strengths and weaknesses. Mobo is stronger and can punch harder, while Robo is faster and can jump higher.

In addition to Mobo and Robo, there are a number of other characters in Bonanza Bros., including the mysterious stranger who hires them to rob the banks and museums, and the police chief who is trying to stop them.

Reception

Bonanza Bros. was a critical and commercial success upon its release. The game was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, challenging levels, and catchy music. Bonanza Bros. has been ported to a number of different platforms over the years, and it remains a popular game among retro gaming enthusiasts.

Legacy

Bonanza Bros. is considered to be one of the greatest beat-’em-up games of all time. The game has been praised for its innovative gameplay, challenging levels, and catchy music. Bonanza Bros. has influenced a number of other beat-’em-up games, including the Streets of Rage series and the Double Dragon series.

Tips for Playing Bonanza Bros.

Here are a few tips for playing Bonanza Bros.:

  • Use your punches and kicks to defeat enemies.
  • Collect gold coins and other valuables to purchase power-ups and extra lives.
  • Be careful of the laser beams and security cameras in the bank vault level.
  • Use the giant crane in the construction site level to crush enemies.
  • Don’t give up! Bonanza Bros. is a challenging game, but it’s also a lot of fun.

Conclusion

Bonanza Bros. is a classic arcade beat-’em-up game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s fast-paced gameplay, challenging levels, and catchy music make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Virtua Tennis (1999)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 6 minutes read

Summary

Virtua Tennis (1999): A Tennis Masterpiece

Virtua Tennis is a tennis video game developed by Sega AM2 and published by Sega for the Dreamcast in 1999. It was the first tennis game to use 3D graphics and motion capture, and it quickly became one of the most popular and critically acclaimed sports games of all time.

Gameplay

Virtua Tennis is a realistic tennis game that allows players to control one of eight licensed players, including Andre Agassi, Pete Sampras, and Monica Seles. Players can compete in a variety of modes, including arcade mode, exhibition mode, and world circuit mode.

In arcade mode, players compete in a series of matches against increasingly difficult opponents. In exhibition mode, players can play against a friend or the computer in a single match. In world circuit mode, players create a custom character and compete in a series of tournaments around the world.

Virtua Tennis features a variety of gameplay options that allow players to customize their experience. Players can choose from a variety of court surfaces, including clay, grass, and hard court. They can also choose from a variety of camera angles, including behind the player, beside the player, and overhead.

Virtua Tennis also features a robust create-a-player mode. Players can customize their character’s appearance, clothing, and playing style. They can also choose from a variety of special abilities, such as power shots and topspin shots.

Graphics and Sound

Virtua Tennis was one of the first sports games to use 3D graphics and motion capture. The graphics are still impressive today, and the character models are very realistic. The game also features a variety of detailed environments, including tennis courts, stadiums, and locker rooms.

The sound in Virtua Tennis is also top-notch. The crowd noise is realistic and immersive, and the sound of the ball being hit is very satisfying. The game also features a variety of catchy music tracks that add to the overall atmosphere.

Reception

Virtua Tennis was a critical and commercial success. The game received perfect scores from several major publications, including IGN and GameSpot. It was also a commercial success, selling over 2 million copies worldwide.

Virtua Tennis has been praised for its realistic graphics, fluid gameplay, and a variety of modes. It is considered one of the best tennis games ever made, and it is still enjoyed by many players today.

Legacy

Virtua Tennis has had a lasting impact on the tennis video game genre. The game’s realistic graphics and fluid gameplay set a new standard for tennis games, and many subsequent tennis games have borrowed from Virtua Tennis’s formula.

Virtua Tennis has also been ported to a variety of other platforms, including the PlayStation 2, Xbox, and PC. The game has also been re-released on the PlayStation Network and Xbox Live Arcade.

Conclusion

Virtua Tennis is a classic tennis game that is still enjoyed by many players today. The game’s realistic graphics, fluid gameplay, and a variety of modes make it one of the best tennis games ever made. If you are a fan of tennis games, then you owe it to yourself to check out Virtua Tennis.

Additional Information

  • Virtua Tennis was developed by Sega AM2, the same team that developed the Virtua Fighter series.
  • Virtua Tennis was the first tennis game to use motion capture.
  • Virtua Tennis was a launch title for the Dreamcast.
  • Virtua Tennis has been ported to a variety of other platforms, including the PlayStation 2, Xbox, and PC.
  • Virtua Tennis has been re-released on the PlayStation Network and Xbox Live Arcade.

Review Score

8.5/10

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MadWorld (2009)

by Nish
written by Nish 6 minutes read

Summary

MadWorld (2009): A Monochromatic Masterpiece of Violence and Insanity

In the realm of video games, where vibrant colors and fantastical worlds often dominate, there exists a game that stands out as a stark and haunting exception: MadWorld (2009). Developed by PlatinumGames and published by Sega exclusively for the Nintendo Wii, MadWorld is a unique action game that embraces a monochromatic visual style and revels in over-the-top, bone-shattering violence.

A Graphic Novel Come to Life

MadWorld’s most striking feature is its distinctive visual presentation. The entire game is rendered in black, white, and shades of red, creating an aesthetic that resembles a graphic novel brought to life. This stark color scheme amplifies the game’s violent content, making every splatter of blood and dismemberment stand out against the黑白backdrop.

The game’s world is a twisted and surreal place, inspired by the works of Frank Miller and Quentin Tarantino. Players take on the role of Jack Cayman, a hardened assassin who participates in a deadly game show called “DeathWatch.” The objective of DeathWatch is simple: kill your opponents in the most gruesome and stylish way possible.

Ultra-Violent Gameplay

MadWorld’s gameplay is as brutal as its visuals. Players wield a variety of weapons, from chainsaws and machetes to buzzsaws and axes, to dismember and dispatch their enemies. The game’s combat system is designed to encourage creativity and experimentation, allowing players to execute over-the-top finishing moves that result in fountains of blood and flying limbs.

Despite its extreme violence, MadWorld maintains a sense of humor and self-awareness. The game’s over-the-top action is often played for laughs, and the characters are a colorful cast of misfits and eccentrics. This juxtaposition of brutality and humor creates a unique and unforgettable gaming experience.

A Critical and Commercial Success

Upon its release, MadWorld received critical acclaim for its innovative visuals, visceral combat, and dark sense of humor. The game was praised for pushing the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in terms of violence in video games. Commercially, MadWorld was a modest success, selling over one million copies worldwide.

However, MadWorld’s release was not without controversy. The game’s extreme violence drew criticism from some quarters, and it was banned in several countries, including Germany and Australia. Despite the controversy, MadWorld remains a cult classic among fans of action games and a testament to the power of creativity and artistic expression in video games.

A Lasting Legacy

MadWorld’s influence on the video game industry can still be felt today. The game’s unique visual style has been imitated in other titles, and its over-the-top violence has set a new standard for brutality in action games. MadWorld remains a reminder that video games can be more than just mindless entertainment; they can also be works of art that challenge our perceptions and push the boundaries of what is possible.

In Conclusion

MadWorld (2009) is a game that defies easy categorization. It is a brutal and violent action game, but it is also a darkly humorous and visually stunning work of art. MadWorld is a game that will not be to everyone’s taste, but for those who are willing to embrace its unique charms, it is an unforgettable experience.

Review Score

8.5/10

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Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice (2016)

by Nish
written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice – A Blazing New Adventure

Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice is an action-adventure platformer game developed by Sanzaru Games and published by Sega. It is part of the Sonic Boom spin-off franchise of the Sonic the Hedgehog series, along with the games Rise of Lyric and Shattered Crystal, and a TV show. The game was released on the Nintendo 3DS in 2016.

Gameplay

Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice is a 2D side-scrolling platformer game. Players control one of five characters: Sonic, Tails, Amy, Knuckles, or Sticks. Each character has their own unique abilities that can be used to solve puzzles and defeat enemies.

Sonic can use his super speed to run through levels and attack enemies. Tails can fly and use his gadgets to solve puzzles. Amy can use her hammer to attack enemies and break objects. Knuckles can use his strength to lift heavy objects and break through walls. Sticks can use her boomerang to attack enemies and solve puzzles.

The game’s unique feature is its fire and ice mechanics. Players can switch between fire and ice modes at any time. Fire mode allows players to melt ice and burn enemies. Ice mode allows players to freeze water and create platforms. Players must use both fire and ice modes to solve puzzles and defeat enemies.

Story

The story of Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice begins when Dr. Eggman and a new adversary named D-Fekt team up to steal the Chaos Crystals. Sonic and his friends must travel to an undiscovered land to stop Eggman and D-Fekt and save the Chaos Crystals.

Along the way, Sonic and his friends will encounter new allies and enemies. They will also learn more about the history of the Chaos Crystals and the undiscovered land.

Characters

  • Sonic the Hedgehog: The main protagonist of the game. Sonic is a blue hedgehog who can run at super speeds.
  • Tails: Sonic’s best friend and sidekick. Tails is a two-tailed fox who can fly and use his gadgets to solve puzzles.
  • Amy Rose: A pink hedgehog who is Sonic’s love interest. Amy is a skilled fighter who uses her hammer to attack enemies.
  • Knuckles the Echidna: A red echidna who is the guardian of the Master Emerald. Knuckles is a strong fighter who can lift heavy objects and break through walls.
  • Sticks the Badger: A badger who is a member of Sonic’s team. Sticks is a skilled boomerang user and is always ready for a fight.
  • Dr. Eggman: The main antagonist of the game. Dr. Eggman is a brilliant scientist who is always trying to take over the world.
  • D-Fekt: A new adversary who is working with Dr. Eggman. D-Fekt is a powerful robot who can control fire and ice.

Reception

Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice received mixed reviews from critics. Some praised the game’s unique fire and ice mechanics, while others criticized the game’s repetitive level design and lack of innovation.

Despite the mixed reviews, Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice was a commercial success. The game sold over 1 million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice is the last game in the Sonic Boom spin-off franchise. The franchise was not well-received by critics or fans, and Sega has not announced any plans to develop any more Sonic Boom games.

However, the fire and ice mechanics introduced in Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice have been praised by critics and fans alike. It is possible that these mechanics will be used in future Sonic the Hedgehog games.

Conclusion

Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice is a fun and challenging action-adventure platformer that takes the series in a new direction. The game’s unique fire and ice mechanics add a new level of strategy and depth to the gameplay, and the new characters are a welcome addition to the Sonic universe.

Overall, Sonic Boom: Fire & Ice is a solid entry in the Sonic the Hedgehog franchise. It is a fun and challenging game that is sure to please fans of the series.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Tournament of Legends (2010)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Tournament of Legends: A Unique and Exciting Fighting Game

Released in 2010 for the Wii, Tournament of Legends is a unique and exciting fighting game that combines traditional fighting gameplay with puzzle-based elements. The game features ten playable characters based on Graeco-Roman mythology, each with their own unique weapons and abilities.

Gameplay

Tournament of Legends is played using the Wii Remote and Nunchuk. Players gesture using the Wii Remote and Nunchuk to initiate horizontal and vertical attacks. Button inputs allow the character to dodge, block, charge, and use special attacks.

To win a match, the player must defeat the opponent three times in two 90-second rounds. Breaks are allowed for fighters to regenerate armor and health.

Characters

The ten playable characters in Tournament of Legends are:

  • Achilles – A Greek warrior known for his strength and courage. He wields a sword and shield.
  • Atlas – A Titan who holds up the heavens. He wields a giant stone club.
  • Cyclops – A one-eyed giant with incredible strength. He wields a giant boulder.
  • Hades – The god of the underworld. He wields a pitchfork and can summon the dead to his aid.
  • Hercules – A demigod known for his strength and courage. He wields a club and can use his fists to attack.
  • Medusa – A Gorgon who can turn her opponents to stone with her gaze. She wields a sword and shield.
  • Poseidon – The god of the sea. He wields a trident and can control water.
  • Zeus – The king of the gods. He wields a thunderbolt and can control lightning.
  • Ares – The god of war. He wields a sword and shield.
  • Athena – The goddess of wisdom and war. She wields a spear and shield.

Puzzle Elements

In addition to traditional fighting gameplay, Tournament of Legends also features puzzle elements. These elements are incorporated into the game’s stages, which are filled with traps and obstacles. Players must use their wits to overcome these obstacles and defeat their opponents.

Motion Controls

Tournament of Legends is one of the first fighting games to use motion controls. The motion controls are intuitive and add a new level of depth to the combat. Players can use the Wii Remote and Nunchuk to perform a variety of attacks, including punches, kicks, and throws.

Reception

Tournament of Legends received positive reviews from critics. The game was praised for its unique gameplay, innovative use of motion controls, and beautiful graphics. However, the game was also criticized for its short length and lack of online multiplayer.

Legacy

Tournament of Legends is a unique and innovative fighting game that has left a lasting legacy on the genre. The game’s use of motion controls and puzzle elements has inspired other fighting games, such as the Super Smash Bros. series.

Conclusion

Tournament of Legends is a fun and exciting fighting game that offers a unique blend of traditional fighting gameplay and puzzle elements. The game’s innovative use of motion controls and beautiful graphics make it a must-play for fans of the fighting game genre.

Review Score

7.5/10

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Beyond Oasis (1994)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 7 minutes read

Summary

Beyond Oasis: A Timeless Adventure of Elemental Spirits and Ancient Magic

Released in 1994 for the Sega Genesis, Beyond Oasis is a captivating action-adventure game that transports players to a vibrant fantasy world brimming with elemental spirits, ancient magic, and a timeless tale of good versus evil. Embark on an epic quest as Prince Ali, a valiant knight destined to wield the power of the Golden Armlet and thwart the sinister ambitions of the evil sorcerer, Agito.

A Serendipitous Discovery and a Prophetic Encounter

The adventure begins in the peaceful kingdom of Oasis, where Prince Ali stumbles upon a hidden cave and unearths a mysterious golden armlet. Little does he know that this relic once belonged to a powerful sorcerer, and as he adorns it, a mystical fire with a human face manifests before him. The fire reveals the armlet’s true nature and bestows upon Ali the power to summon and command the four elemental spirits: Efreet, the spirit of fire; Undine, the spirit of water; Dytto, the spirit of earth; and Sylph, the spirit of air.

Guided by the spirits, Ali embarks on a perilous journey to find the four Spirit Stones, ancient artifacts that hold immense power over the elements. These stones are scattered across the land, guarded by treacherous dungeons and formidable foes. Along the way, Ali encounters a colorful cast of characters, including the wise sage Asha and the enigmatic thief Riesz, who lend their aid in his quest to restore balance to the world.

The Shadow of Evil: Agito and the Silver Armlet

As Ali progresses on his quest, he discovers the sinister machinations of Agito, an evil sorcerer who seeks to harness the power of the elements for his own nefarious purposes. Agito wields the Silver Armlet, a dark counterpart to Ali’s Golden Armlet, which grants him control over shadow spirits.

A fierce rivalry ensues between Ali and Agito, their destinies intertwined in a battle for the fate of Oasis. Ali’s noble spirit and unwavering determination are put to the test as he faces Agito’s formidable power and the challenges that lie ahead.

Elemental Harmony and Strategic Gameplay

Beyond Oasis’s gameplay masterfully blends action, adventure, and puzzle-solving elements. Ali’s swordsmanship is complemented by his ability to summon and command the four elemental spirits, each with unique abilities and powers. Efreet unleashes fiery attacks, Undine manipulates water to heal and attack, Dytto controls earth to create barriers and crush enemies, and Sylph grants the power of flight and wind-based attacks.

Strategic use of the spirits is crucial to overcoming obstacles and defeating enemies. Players must adapt their tactics to the challenges at hand, leveraging the spirits’ strengths and weaknesses to solve puzzles, traverse treacherous terrain, and vanquish formidable foes.

A Symphony of Visuals, Music, and Enchanting Ambiance

Beyond Oasis is a visual spectacle for its time, showcasing vibrant colors, intricate pixel art, and detailed character designs. The world of Oasis is brought to life with lush forests, shimmering deserts, and majestic mountains, each teeming with unique creatures and hidden secrets.

The game’s soundtrack is equally enchanting, composed by the legendary Yuzo Koshiro. The melodies are a harmonious blend of Arabic and Japanese influences, perfectly capturing the game’s exotic setting and epic scope. The sound effects are equally impressive, adding depth and immersion to the gameplay experience.

A Timeless Classic and Enduring Legacy

Beyond Oasis has garnered critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase since its release in 1994. Its blend of action, adventure, and puzzle-solving has stood the test of time, captivating gamers with its timeless gameplay and enchanting world. The game’s influence can be seen in numerous subsequent titles, including the Legend of Zelda series and the Mana series.

Beyond Oasis remains a beloved classic among retro gaming enthusiasts and a testament to the enduring power of well-crafted storytelling, innovative gameplay, and timeless visuals. Its legacy continues to inspire and entertain gamers of all generations, solidifying its place as one of the most iconic and cherished titles of the 16-bit era.

Review Score

9/10

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Headhunter: Redemption (2004)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Headhunter: Redemption: A Cyberpunk Action-Adventure Classic

Released in 2004, Headhunter: Redemption is a third-person action-adventure game set in a dystopian cyberpunk world. The game follows the story of Jack Wade, a veteran Headhunter, as he investigates an intrusion to the upper levels of the city. He’s joined by his sidekick Leeza X, and together they face whatever threat lurks from the world Below.

Gameplay

Headhunter: Redemption is played from a third-person perspective. Players control Jack Wade as he explores the game’s world, solves puzzles, and fights enemies. The game’s combat is fast-paced and action-packed, and players can use a variety of weapons and gadgets to defeat their enemies.

One of the unique features of Headhunter: Redemption is the IRIS (Intelligent Realtime Information Scanner) system. IRIS allows players to scan objects and enemies, providing them with information about their surroundings. This information can be used to solve puzzles, find hidden items, and plan attacks.

Setting

Headhunter: Redemption is set in a dystopian cyberpunk world. The world is divided into two distinct worlds: Above and Below. Above is a chrome city, a high-rise, high-tech metropolis served by elevators and elevated freeways. A place for hardworkers and law-abiding people. Below, on the other hand, is a subterranean network of labor colonies. Those who are not wanted Above for one reason or another are sent Below.

The game’s world is richly detailed and immersive. The developers have done an excellent job of creating a believable and atmospheric setting. The game’s environments are varied and interesting, and the characters are well-developed and relatable.

Story

The story of Headhunter: Redemption is well-written and engaging. The game’s plot is full of twists and turns, and the characters are well-developed and relatable. The game’s ending is satisfying and leaves the player wanting more.

Characters

Jack Wade is the protagonist of Headhunter: Redemption. He is a veteran Headhunter who is skilled in combat and investigation. Jack is a complex and well-developed character. He is a hardened veteran, but he also has a compassionate side.

Leeza X is Jack’s sidekick. She is a young woman who is skilled in hacking and technology. Leeza is a loyal and supportive friend, and she is always there to help Jack out of a jam.

Graphics

The graphics in Headhunter: Redemption are impressive for their time. The game’s environments are detailed and atmospheric, and the character models are well-animated. The game’s cutscenes are also well-directed and visually stunning.

Sound

The sound design in Headhunter: Redemption is excellent. The game’s music is atmospheric and immersive, and the sound effects are realistic and well-executed. The voice acting is also top-notch, with the actors delivering believable and engaging performances.

Overall

Headhunter: Redemption is a classic action-adventure game that is still worth playing today. The game’s fast-paced combat, engaging story, and immersive setting make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

8/10

Pros

  • Fast-paced and action-packed combat
  • Engaging story with well-developed characters
  • Immersive and atmospheric setting
  • Excellent graphics and sound design

Cons

  • Camera can be problematic at times
  • Some of the puzzles can be frustrating
  • The game can be short for some players

Recommendation

Headhunter: Redemption is a great action-adventure game that is still worth playing today. If you’re a fan of the genre, then you should definitely check it out.

Review Score

7.5/10

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