11-07-2007, 09:33 AM
Console: Mega Drive / Genesis
Cost: 800 Wii Points (900 in North America)
Saying a game was developed by Treasure is practically synonymous with calling it a cult classic. Games like Sin and Punishment, Radiant Silvergun, Ikaruga, Bangai-O and Gunstar Heroes (quite possibly the best run n' gun shooter ever) have all been popular amongst hardcore gamers and importers, but were never fared well commercially. A few of their games have thankfully seen rereleases on the Virtual Console, and now here is another classic that lives up to its developer's name. Previously only released in Japan and Europe, American gamers will probably have missed out on this game, except for the few who had access to the Sega Channel service.
The planet Sierra is under siege by the terrorist group Scarlet, who wish to destroy all human life for some reason. Scarlet's members have psychic powers allowing them to control other humans, animals, and machines. Our hero is Epsilon-Eagle, former leader of Scarlet, who is out to destroy Scarlet and in particular, its leader Xi-Tiger. Actually the plot's more complicated than that, but you don't need to worry about it.
Players should find it simple enough to get used to gameplay. Upon starting the game, you must first choose up to four weapons, choose your status display options (more on that later), then it's off you go. Weapons can be changed using by holding A (y on the classic controller) and highlighting the weapon you want. Aside from the usual running, gunning, and jumping, Epsilon-Eagle has a few neat little tricks: pressing the jump button twice in succession will allow him to hover in the air until you jump again or are knocked down, and you can teleport back and forth across the screen by pressing down and C (b on the classic controller) together. Also, Epsilon-Eagle can walk on the ceilings.
Alien Soldier's structure is a little unusual- each level is typically short and easy, and the real challenge are the boss fights... of which there are many. In fact the game seems to play like one big boss rush. Another odd quirk about this game is the health system- you're always taken down to 1 unit of health before you're killed, allowing a chance to recover. The game may be tough for some players, with limited ammo (more can be found in the levels) and some tight time limits. But if you so wish you can make things even harder for yourself, you have the option to hide information about you and your enemies' status. This certainly makes things more interesting.
Graphically the game looks fantastic, easily one of the best on the Mega Drive. Characters are large and detailed, and move quite fluidly around the screen. Even the backgrounds are nice to look at. On top of that, the audio for this game is great too. The music may not be particularly memorable, but it's still a strong point. Overall Alien Solider is an awesome game, but it's also one that is perhaps not for everyone. It's not as accessible as Gunstar Heroes and the pseudo-"boss rush" structure may put some people off, but for those who can look past these things, this game is recommended.
Graphics: 10/10
Sound: 8/10
Gameplay: 9/10
Lifespan: 6/10
Overall: 8/10