Publisher: Sega of America

Super Monaco GP (1989)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Super Monaco GP (1989): The Formula One Racing Game That Redefined Sprite-Scaled Graphics

Released in 1989 by Sega, Super Monaco GP is a Formula One racing game that revolutionized the genre with its groundbreaking sprite-scaled graphics. The game’s single track, a very reasonable representation of the famous Monaco Grand Prix circuit, was brought to life with stunning detail, creating a sense of immersion that was unmatched at the time.

Gameplay

Super Monaco GP offers players a variety of gameplay options to choose from. Players can race with one of three different skill/gear settings:

  • Beginner: Automatic Gears
  • Intermediate: 4-Speed Manual Gears
  • Professional: 7-Speed Manual Gears

Before entering the Grand Prix, players must complete a qualification lap. The qualifying time determines the player’s position on the starting grid. During the race itself, players must reach checkpoints within a set time, or the race is over.

Super Monaco GP is known for its challenging gameplay. The Monaco Grand Prix circuit is narrow and winding, with many tight turns and chicanes. Players must be precise with their driving and use all of their skill to avoid crashing. The game’s AI opponents are also very competitive, providing a constant challenge.

Graphics

Super Monaco GP’s graphics were groundbreaking for their time. The game used sprite-scaling technology to create detailed and realistic cars and track environments. The cars were scaled in size depending on their distance from the camera, creating a sense of depth and speed. The track environments were also very detailed, with lush scenery and realistic grandstands.

Super Monaco GP’s graphics still hold up today. The game’s visuals are charming and timeless, and the track environments are still impressive.

Sound

Super Monaco GP’s sound is also top-notch. The game’s music is fast-paced and exciting, and the sound effects are realistic and immersive. The game’s engine noises are particularly impressive, and they help to create a sense of speed and excitement.

Overall

Super Monaco GP is a classic Formula One racing game that still holds up today. The game’s challenging gameplay, groundbreaking graphics, and immersive sound design make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Legacy

Super Monaco GP was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its graphics, gameplay, and sound. It was also a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.

Super Monaco GP has had a lasting impact on the racing game genre. The game’s sprite-scaling technology was groundbreaking, and it helped to set a new standard for racing games. The game’s challenging gameplay and realistic graphics also helped to establish the Formula One racing genre as a major force in the video game industry.

Super Monaco GP has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, including the Sega Genesis, Game Gear, and PlayStation 2. The game is also available on the Nintendo Switch Online service.

Trivia

  • Super Monaco GP was the first racing game to use sprite-scaling technology.
  • The game’s track is a very reasonable representation of the famous Monaco Grand Prix circuit.
  • The game’s music was composed by Yuzo Koshiro, who is also known for his work on the Streets of Rage series.
  • Super Monaco GP was a commercial success, selling over 1 million copies worldwide.
  • The game has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, including the Sega Genesis, Game Gear, and PlayStation 2.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

Cover Art

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Super Columns (1995)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Super Columns (1995): A Guide to the Addictive Puzzle Classic

Released in 1995, Super Columns is an addictive puzzle game that combines Tetris-like gameplay with unique twists and power-ups. Developed by Sega, the game was a critical and commercial success, and it remains popular today among puzzle game enthusiasts.

Gameplay

The goal of Super Columns is to clear the playing field of colored gems by matching three or more of the same color together. Gems fall from the top of the screen, and players must rotate and drop them into place to create matches. Once a match is made, the gems will disappear and the gems above will fall down to fill the gaps.

Super Columns adds several new twists to the classic Tetris formula. One of the most unique features is the ability to flip the screen. By pressing a button, players can rotate the entire playing field 180 degrees. This can be helpful for getting gems into hard-to-reach places or for setting up chain reactions.

Another unique feature of Super Columns is the use of power-ups. Power-ups can be collected by matching three or more gems of the same color. Once collected, power-ups can be used to clear entire rows or columns of gems, or to shuffle the gems around the playing field.

Modes

Super Columns offers a variety of different modes to keep players entertained. The main mode is the Puzzle mode, which consists of 50 levels of increasing difficulty. In Puzzle mode, players must clear all of the gems from the playing field in order to progress to the next level.

In addition to Puzzle mode, Super Columns also offers a Time Attack mode and a Versus mode. In Time Attack mode, players must clear as many gems as possible within a time limit. In Versus mode, two players can compete against each other to see who can clear the most gems.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you master Super Columns:

  • Plan ahead. Don’t just drop gems randomly. Take the time to think about where you want to place each gem and how it will affect the overall layout of the playing field.
  • Use the flip screen power-up wisely. The flip screen power-up can be a lifesaver, but it’s important to use it wisely. Don’t flip the screen just for the sake of it. Only flip the screen when it will give you a clear advantage.
  • Don’t be afraid to use power-ups. Power-ups can be very helpful, but don’t be afraid to use them. If you’re stuck, don’t hesitate to use a power-up to clear a path or to set up a chain reaction.
  • Practice makes perfect. The best way to get good at Super Columns is to practice. The more you play, the better you’ll become at recognizing patterns and setting up chain reactions.

Legacy

Super Columns was a critical and commercial success, and it remains popular today among puzzle game enthusiasts. The game has been ported to a variety of platforms, including the Sega Saturn, the PlayStation, and the Nintendo Switch.

Super Columns has also been praised for its innovative gameplay and its timeless appeal. The game is simple to learn but difficult to master, and it offers a fun and challenging experience for players of all ages.

Conclusion

Super Columns is a classic puzzle game that is still enjoyed by gamers today. The game’s unique gameplay, power-ups, and variety of modes make it a timeless classic that is sure to provide hours of enjoyment.

Review Score

8/10

Art

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Tempo Jr. (1995)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Tempo Jr. (1995): A Rhythm Game That’s Still a Blast

Tempo Jr. is a rhythm game released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in 1995. It was developed by Tose and published by Sony Music Entertainment. The game is the sequel to the 1994 game Tempo, and it features similar gameplay, but with new levels, enemies, and bosses.

Gameplay

Tempo Jr. is a side-scrolling rhythm game in which the player controls Tempo, a grasshopper who must travel through various levels, defeating enemies and collecting musical notes. The game’s levels are divided into four worlds, each with its own unique theme and set of enemies.

Tempo can attack enemies by shooting musical notes at them. He can also jump, spin, and snap his fingers to create different types of notes. The player must time their button presses to the rhythm of the music in order to successfully attack enemies and collect notes.

Story

The story of Tempo Jr. takes place on the planet Rhythmia, a world where music is everything. The evil King Dirge has stolen the planet’s rhythm, and it’s up to Tempo Jr. to save the day.

Tempo Jr. must travel through four worlds, each ruled by a different member of King Dirge’s band. Along the way, he’ll encounter a variety of enemies, including ants, spiders, and bats. Tempo Jr. must use his musical abilities to defeat these enemies and collect the missing pieces of the rhythm.

Graphics and Sound

Tempo Jr.’s graphics are colorful and vibrant, and the game’s world is full of detail. The game’s music is also excellent, with catchy tunes that will get you moving.

Reception

Tempo Jr. was a critical and commercial success. The game was praised for its innovative gameplay, catchy music, and charming graphics. It was also a commercial success, selling over one million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Tempo Jr. is still considered one of the best rhythm games ever made. The game’s unique gameplay and catchy music have made it a favorite among fans of the genre. Tempo Jr. has also been ported to other platforms, including the PlayStation, Sega Saturn, and Game Boy Advance.

Conclusion

Tempo Jr. is a classic rhythm game that’s still a blast to play today. Its innovative gameplay, catchy music, and charming graphics make it a must-play for fans of the genre. If you’re looking for a fun and challenging rhythm game to play, then Tempo Jr. is definitely worth checking out.

Here are some additional details about Tempo Jr.:

  • The game features a total of 50 levels.
  • There are four different worlds to explore, each with its own unique theme and set of enemies.
  • Tempo Jr. can use a variety of different musical notes to attack enemies, including regular notes, bombs, and homing notes.
  • The game features a catchy soundtrack with over 20 different songs.
  • Tempo Jr. was developed by Tose, a Japanese video game developer that has worked on a number of classic games, including the Mario & Luigi series and the Dragon Quest series.
  • Tempo Jr. was published by Sony Music Entertainment, a division of Sony Corporation that is responsible for the production and distribution of music.

If you’re interested in learning more about Tempo Jr., here are some additional resources:

Review Score

8/10

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Time Soldiers (1987)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

Time Soldiers: A Timeless Classic of Arcade Action

Released in 1987 by Konami, Time Soldiers is a side-scrolling run-and-gun arcade game that quickly became a fan favorite. Players take control of two elite soldiers, Karl and Brad, who must travel through different time periods to rescue their fellow comrades and defeat the evil General Heiniger.

Gameplay

Time Soldiers is known for its innovative gameplay, which incorporates rotary joysticks that allow players to fire in eight different directions. This gives the game a unique feel and adds an extra layer of challenge and strategy. Players must use their aiming skills to take down enemies while also dodging their attacks.

The game features a variety of levels set in different time periods, including the prehistoric era, the Wild West, and the future. Each level has its own unique set of enemies and challenges, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting.

Characters

Players can choose to play as either Karl or Brad, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. Karl is a well-rounded character with a balanced set of攻擊力 and defense, while Brad is faster and more agile, but has less firepower.

Throughout the game, players can collect power-ups that enhance their abilities. These power-ups include speed boosts, invincibility, and more powerful weapons.

Enemies and Bosses

Time Soldiers features a wide range of enemies, from prehistoric creatures to futuristic robots. Each enemy has its own unique attack patterns and weaknesses, so players must adapt their strategies accordingly.

The game also features several challenging boss battles. These bosses are massive and powerful, and require players to use all of their skills and resources to defeat them.

Legacy

Time Soldiers was a critical and commercial success upon its release. It was praised for its innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and catchy music. The game has been ported to numerous home consoles and is still enjoyed by gamers today.

Time Soldiers is considered to be one of the greatest arcade games of all time. It has been featured in numerous top 10 lists and has inspired several sequels and spin-offs. The game’s unique gameplay and timeless appeal continue to entertain and challenge players of all ages.

Tips and Tricks

  • Use the rotary joysticks to your advantage. The ability to fire in eight directions gives you a significant advantage over your enemies.
  • Learn the attack patterns of each enemy. This will help you to anticipate their moves and dodge their attacks.
  • Collect power-ups whenever possible. Power-ups can give you a significant boost in firepower, speed, or defense.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment with different strategies. There is no one right way to play Time Soldiers. Find a strategy that works for you and stick with it.
  • Practice makes perfect. The more you play Time Soldiers, the better you will become at it. So keep practicing and you’ll be able to master this classic arcade game.

Conclusion

Time Soldiers is a timeless classic that continues to entertain and challenge gamers of all ages. Its innovative gameplay, stunning graphics, and catchy music make it a must-play for any fan of arcade games. So grab a rotary joystick and get ready to travel through time and save the day!

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

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Shanghai II: Dragon’s Eye (1990)

by Nish
written by Nish 4 minutes read

Summary

Shanghai II: Dragon’s Eye (1990)

Shanghai II: Dragon’s Eye is a tile-matching puzzle game developed and published by Activision for the Amiga, Atari ST, Commodore 64, DOS, and Macintosh in 1990. It is the sequel to the 1986 game Shanghai, and introduces several new features, including 8 different tile sets, 12 patterns based on the animals of the Chinese zodiac, and a layout editor for creating custom patterns.

Gameplay

The goal of Shanghai II is to remove all of the Mahjong tiles from the game board by matching them in pairs. Tiles can be matched if they are of the same type and are not blocked by other tiles. To remove a pair of tiles, simply click on them in succession.

There are 8 different tile sets to choose from in Shanghai II, each with its own unique look and feel. The 12 patterns based on the animals of the Chinese zodiac add variety to the gameplay, and the layout editor allows players to create their own custom patterns.

In addition to the standard Shanghai game mode, Shanghai II also features “Dragon’s Eye,” a 2-player variant. In Dragon’s Eye, players take turns adding and removing tiles from a small field. One player attempts to remove all of the tiles, while the other player tries to position tiles to make this impossible.

Graphics and Sound

Shanghai II features beautiful graphics and a catchy soundtrack. The tiles are rendered in high detail, and the backgrounds are colorful and vibrant. The music is also excellent, and helps to create a relaxing and enjoyable atmosphere.

Reception

Shanghai II was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its addictive gameplay, beautiful graphics, and variety of game modes. The game was also a hit with reviewers, who praised its challenge and replayability.

Legacy

Shanghai II is considered to be one of the best tile-matching puzzle games ever made. It has been ported to numerous platforms over the years, and remains popular with fans of the genre. The game’s success has also spawned several sequels and spin-offs, including Shanghai III, Shanghai Dynasty, and Shanghai: Ultimate Journey.

Tips for Playing Shanghai II

  • Look for exposed tiles. Tiles that are not blocked by other tiles are easier to match.
  • Plan your moves ahead. Don’t just remove tiles randomly. Take a few seconds to look at the board and plan your next move.
  • Use the undo button. If you make a mistake, don’t be afraid to use the undo button.
  • Don’t be afraid to experiment. There is no one right way to play Shanghai II. Experiment with different tile sets, patterns, and strategies to find what works best for you.

Conclusion

Shanghai II: Dragon’s Eye is a classic tile-matching puzzle game that is still enjoyed by fans of the genre today. With its beautiful graphics, catchy soundtrack, and variety of game modes, Shanghai II is a must-play for anyone who enjoys puzzle games.

Review Score

8.5/10

Art

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Garfield: Caught in the Act (1995)

by Nish
written by Nish 7 minutes read

Summary

Garfield: Caught in the Act (1995) Review

Introduction

Garfield: Caught in the Act is a platformer game developed by Sega and released for the Sega Game Gear in 1995. It is the first ever 8MB Game Gear game, and it features Garfield the cat and his friends in a variety of action-packed and comedic adventures.

Gameplay

The game is a side-scrolling platformer in which the player controls Garfield as he runs, jumps, and shoots his way through a variety of levels. Garfield can also use a variety of power-ups, such as a jetpack and a magnet, to help him overcome obstacles and defeat enemies.

The game features a variety of levels, each with its own unique theme and challenges. Some levels are set in Garfield’s house, while others take place in a variety of outdoor locations, such as a forest, a beach, and a construction site.

Graphics and Sound

The game’s graphics are colorful and detailed, and the character sprites are well-animated. The game’s soundtrack is also catchy and memorable.

Story

The game’s story is simple but effective. Garfield is trying to catch a mouse that has stolen his lasagna, and he must travel through a variety of levels to find it. Along the way, he is helped by his friends, such as Odie, Nermal, and Arlene.

Reception

Garfield: Caught in the Act was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its fun and challenging gameplay, its colorful and detailed graphics, and its catchy soundtrack. The game sold over 1 million copies worldwide.

Legacy

Garfield: Caught in the Act is considered to be one of the best platformer games for the Sega Game Gear. It is still enjoyed by fans of the Garfield franchise and retro gamers alike.

In-Depth Review

Gameplay

Garfield: Caught in the Act is a side-scrolling platformer in which the player controls Garfield as he runs, jumps, and shoots his way through a variety of levels. Garfield can also use a variety of power-ups, such as a jetpack and a magnet, to help him overcome obstacles and defeat enemies.

The game features a variety of levels, each with its own unique theme and challenges. Some levels are set in Garfield’s house, while others take place in a variety of outdoor locations, such as a forest, a beach, and a construction site.

The game’s controls are simple and easy to learn. Garfield can run, jump, and shoot by pressing the corresponding buttons on the Game Gear’s D-pad and buttons. Garfield can also use a variety of power-ups, such as a jetpack and a magnet, by pressing the A button.

The game’s difficulty is well-balanced. The early levels are easy enough for beginners to learn the basics of the game, but the later levels are more challenging and will require some skill to complete.

Graphics and Sound

The game’s graphics are colorful and detailed, and the character sprites are well-animated. The game’s backgrounds are also well-drawn and varied.

The game’s soundtrack is also catchy and memorable. The music is upbeat and fits the game’s lighthearted tone.

Story

The game’s story is simple but effective. Garfield is trying to catch a mouse that has stolen his lasagna, and he must travel through a variety of levels to find it. Along the way, he is helped by his friends, such as Odie, Nermal, and Arlene.

The game’s story is told through a series of cutscenes that are interspersed between the levels. The cutscenes are well-written and humorous, and they help to keep the player engaged in the game’s story.

Reception

Garfield: Caught in the Act was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its fun and challenging gameplay, its colorful and detailed graphics, and its catchy soundtrack. The game sold over 1 million copies worldwide.

The game was also nominated for several awards, including Best Game Gear Game of the Year by Electronic Gaming Monthly.

Legacy

Garfield: Caught in the Act is considered to be one of the best platformer games for the Sega Game Gear. It is still enjoyed by fans of the Garfield franchise and retro gamers alike.

The game’s success helped to spawn a number of sequels and spin-offs, including Garfield: Caught in the Act II (1996) and Garfield: A Tail of Two Kitties (2004).

Review Score

7/10

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Aerial Assault (1990)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 4 minutes read

Summary

Aerial Assault (1990)

Developer: SNK Publisher: SNK Genre: Side-scrolling shooter Release date: 1990 Platforms: Arcade, Neo Geo

Gameplay

Aerial Assault is a side-scrolling shooter in which the player controls a fighter jet through five levels, each with a boss to defeat at the end. The player’s ship can fire lasers and bombs, and can also collect power-ups to improve its firepower or speed.

The game features three difficulty levels: Easy, Normal, and Hard. On Easy difficulty, the player has unlimited lives and can continue from the beginning of the level if they die. On Normal difficulty, the player has a limited number of lives and must restart the level from the beginning if they die. On Hard difficulty, the player has only one life and must complete the entire game without dying.

Weapons and power-ups

The player’s ship can fire lasers and bombs. Lasers are the ship’s default weapon, and they can be fired rapidly. Bombs are more powerful than lasers, but they can only be fired one at a time.

The player can collect power-ups to improve their ship’s firepower or speed. Power-ups include:

  • Speed Up: Increases the ship’s speed.
  • Power Up: Increases the ship’s firepower.
  • Bomb Up: Gives the player an extra bomb.
  • Shield: Gives the player a shield that protects them from enemy fire.
  • 1Up: Gives the player an extra life.

Levels

The game consists of five levels, each with a unique boss to defeat. The levels are:

  1. Mission 1: The player must fly through a series of canyons, dodging enemy fire and destroying ground targets. The boss of this level is a giant flying fortress.
  2. Mission 2: The player must fly through a forest, dodging enemy fire and destroying ground targets. The boss of this level is a giant spider.
  3. Mission 3: The player must fly through a city, dodging enemy fire and destroying ground targets. The boss of this level is a giant robot.
  4. Mission 4: The player must fly through a desert, dodging enemy fire and destroying ground targets. The boss of this level is a giant sandworm.
  5. Mission 5: The player must fly through a series of space stations, dodging enemy fire and destroying ground targets. The boss of this level is a giant alien spaceship.

Bosses

Each level of Aerial Assault features a unique boss to defeat. The bosses are:

  • Mission 1: Giant flying fortress
  • Mission 2: Giant spider
  • Mission 3: Giant robot
  • Mission 4: Giant sandworm
  • Mission 5: Giant alien spaceship

The bosses are all large and powerful, and they require the player to use all of their skills to defeat them.

Graphics and sound

The graphics in Aerial Assault are colorful and detailed. The backgrounds are varied and interesting, and the enemy sprites are well-animated. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, with catchy tunes that add to the excitement of the gameplay.

Conclusion

Aerial Assault is a classic side-scrolling shooter that still holds up today. With its fast-paced gameplay, challenging levels, and memorable bosses, Aerial Assault is a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

8/10

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Dragon Crystal (1990)

by Ji-yeong
written by Ji-yeong 6 minutes read

Summary

Dragon Crystal (1990): A Roguelike Classic

Dragon Crystal is a roguelike dungeon crawler released in 1990 for the Commodore Amiga, Atari ST, and MS-DOS. The game is set in a fantasy world where the player must navigate through 30 levels of a dungeon in search of the Magic Goblet, which will allow them to return to their own world.

Dragon Crystal is a challenging game, but it is also fair and rewarding. The player must carefully manage their resources and make strategic decisions in order to survive. The game’s simple but effective graphics and sound create a sense of atmosphere and immersion.

Gameplay

Dragon Crystal is a turn-based roguelike dungeon crawler. The player controls a single character who must navigate through a dungeon consisting of 30 levels. Each level is randomly generated and filled with monsters, traps, and treasure.

The player must fight their way through the dungeon, defeating monsters and collecting treasure. The player can use a variety of weapons and spells to defeat monsters. The player can also find items that will help them on their journey, such as healing potions and scrolls of identify.

The player must also manage their resources carefully. The player’s health and mana are constantly being drained, and the player must find food and potions to replenish them. The player must also be careful not to overload themselves with treasure, as this will slow them down and make them more vulnerable to attack.

Setting

Dragon Crystal is set in a fantasy world of unearthly beauty and deadly demons. The game’s world is full of lush forests, sparkling rivers, and towering mountains. However, the world is also home to a variety of dangerous creatures, including dragons, demons, and goblins.

The player must travel through this dangerous world in search of the Magic Goblet. The Magic Goblet is the only way for the player to return to their own world.

Graphics and Sound

Dragon Crystal’s graphics are simple but effective. The game’s world is rendered in a top-down perspective, and the characters and monsters are represented by small sprites. The game’s graphics are not particularly detailed, but they are clear and easy to read.

Dragon Crystal’s sound is also simple but effective. The game’s music is composed of a series of short, looping tracks. The music is not particularly memorable, but it does a good job of setting the mood for the game.

Reception

Dragon Crystal was well-received by critics upon its release. The game was praised for its challenging gameplay, fair difficulty, and immersive atmosphere. Dragon Crystal was also a commercial success, selling over 100,000 copies worldwide.

Dragon Crystal is considered to be one of the classic roguelike dungeon crawlers. The game has been praised for its challenging gameplay, fair difficulty, and immersive atmosphere. Dragon Crystal is a must-play for fans of roguelike dungeon crawlers.

Legacy

Dragon Crystal has had a lasting impact on the roguelike genre. The game’s challenging gameplay, fair difficulty, and immersive atmosphere have served as a model for many other roguelike dungeon crawlers. Dragon Crystal is also credited with popularizing the use of randomly generated levels in roguelike dungeon crawlers.

Dragon Crystal has been ported to a variety of platforms over the years, including the PC, Mac, and Linux. The game is also available on a number of online gaming platforms, such as Steam and GOG.com.

Dragon Crystal remains a popular game today, and it is still enjoyed by many fans of roguelike dungeon crawlers. The game’s challenging gameplay, fair difficulty, and immersive atmosphere make it a must-play for fans of the genre.

Review Score

8/10

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X-Men 2: Clone Wars (1995)

by Christopher
written by Christopher 5 minutes read

Summary

X-Men 2: Clone Wars (1995): A Detailed Retrospective

Prepare for an extraterrestrial invasion of epic proportions as we delve into the depths of X-Men 2: Clone Wars, a side-scrolling masterpiece that graced the Sega Genesis in 1995. As a sequel to the acclaimed X-Men, this game further cements the legacy of the iconic superhero team in the realm of video games.

Story: Facing the Phalanx Threat

In X-Men 2: Clone Wars, the Earth faces an unprecedented threat from beyond the stars. The Phalanx, a malevolent extraterrestrial entity, descends upon our planet with the sinister goal of assimilating all organic life. With humanity’s fate hanging in the balance, the X-Men emerge as our last line of defense.

The story unfolds through a series of captivating cutscenes, immersing players in the dire circumstances confronting Earth. The X-Men, led by the indomitable Professor X, must race against time to unravel the Phalanx’s nefarious plans and prevent the annihilation of humankind.

Gameplay: Side-Scrolling Action at Its Finest

X-Men 2: Clone Wars retains the thrilling side-scrolling gameplay that defined its predecessor. Players take control of their favorite mutant heroes, each possessing unique abilities and combat styles. The roster includes fan favorites such as Wolverine, Cyclops, Gambit, Psylocke, Nightcrawler, Beast, and Magneto, providing a diverse range of gameplay experiences.

The game’s levels are meticulously crafted, offering a blend of platforming challenges, intense combat encounters, and intricate puzzles. Players must navigate treacherous terrains, overcome environmental obstacles, and engage in exhilarating battles against hordes of Phalanx minions.

Expanded Roster: A Team of Extraordinary Mutants

One of the standout features of X-Men 2: Clone Wars is its expanded roster of playable characters. In addition to the returning heroes from the first game, players can now take command of fan-favorite mutants such as Gambit, Psylocke, and Nightcrawler.

Each character brings their signature abilities to the battlefield. Gambit’s kinetic energy blasts, Psylocke’s telekinetic prowess, and Nightcrawler’s acrobatic agility add new dimensions to the gameplay, allowing players to adapt their strategies to suit their preferred playstyles.

Enhanced Combat System: Unleashing Mutant Powers

X-Men 2: Clone Wars introduces a refined combat system that elevates the action to new heights. Players can unleash a wide range of mutant powers, including Wolverine’s berserker rage, Cyclops’ optic blasts, and Gambit’s explosive cards.

The game’s combo system encourages players to chain together attacks for devastating effect. Mastering these combos is essential for overcoming the game’s challenging boss battles and hordes of relentless enemies.

Immersive Graphics and Sound: A Visual and Auditory Feast

X-Men 2: Clone Wars boasts impressive graphics for its time. The vibrant colors, detailed character sprites, and fluid animations bring the game’s world to life. The backgrounds are richly detailed, creating a sense of depth and immersion.

The game’s soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring a blend of pulse-pounding techno and orchestral themes that perfectly complement the action on-screen. The sound effects are equally well-crafted, adding to the overall intensity of the experience.

Legacy: A Side-Scrolling Gem

X-Men 2: Clone Wars (1995) stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of side-scrolling action games. Its captivating story, expanded roster of playable characters, enhanced combat system, and immersive presentation have cemented its place as a beloved classic among gamers and X-Men fans alike.

The game’s success paved the way for future X-Men titles and further solidified the franchise’s presence in the video game landscape. To this day, X-Men 2: Clone Wars remains a cherished entry in the X-Men gaming legacy, offering a nostalgic and thrilling experience for fans of all ages.

Review Score

8.5/10

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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

Art

Cover Art

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