Reviewed
06.24.2005
Publisher
PSiKYO
Developer
PSiKYO
Format
1x
GD
Origin
Import
Available
09.06.2001
(Japan)
Exclusive
Yes
Difficulty
Adjustable
Dimensions
3D
View
Overhead
Genre
Shooter
Player(s)
1-2
Options
Backup
7
Jump
Pack
VGA
Box
VMS/VMU
Requires
n/a
Importable
99% |
| Intro |
|
> You have to love a good shooter when it comes along, as they're not nearly
as prevalent as they were in the 16-bit days. Psikyo
delivers the goods with their arcade conversion of Zero Gunner 2
for the Sega Dreamcast. Although it's not as good,
I'd say this game is in the same league as Ikaruga from Treasure.
One thing I do like better about Zero Gunner 2 is the fact
it uses the whole screen. Anyway, you know the score already; annihilate
the enemy before they destroy your ship.
> The only way to get this game is to import it. Don't worry though,
all the menus are in English which makes for a breeze to play. And
I do recommend you import this title. |
| Graphics |
|
> You may have seen similar looking enemies and locales before -- Radiant
Silvergun (Saturn) comes to mind -- but the Dreamcast
takes the eye candy to another level. Enjoy perfect 3D realms and
nicely shaded enemies (small, medium and gigantic). Various weapons
have distinctive shots, and the explosions are certainly benchmark awesome!
When you get to the end-of-level bosses, be prepared to fight multiple
transforming, mechanized vehicles. What can I say, Psikyo
puts you in the game with these visuals. |
| Control |
|
> Excellent gameplay that's easy to learn and utilize effectively.
Yes, you have your standard guns, missiles and rays with power-ups, but
the real beauty is the ability to pivot 360 degrees onscreen. Also,
you need to spend time picking up orbs left by dead enemies that power
your special shot. Again, a neat package of simple shooter gameplay
highlighted by the ability to pivot anywhere. Nice job! |
| Sound |
|
> Nothing special in the music department. Standard quick beat tunes
to emphasize the chaos onscreen. On the other hand, the sound effects
are excellent, as they should be. This rating would've been much
higher with some memorable rock riffs to keep you coming back. |
| Fun |
|
> You can select from three different ships to control: Comanche, Apache,
and Hokum -- each with their own abilities. Two Players can share
in the mayhem that's accessible to all, as the adjustable difficulty really
makes a difference. You'll want to play this one through a few times
just to admire the scenery, aircraft and mega-bosses. |
| Bottom
Line |
|
> A superb arcade-to-Dreamcast port from the masters at Psikyo.
Unlike many shooters, though, Zero Gunner 2 has a fair enemy
that doesn't overwhelm you with a million bullets onscreen. If you're
looking for a top notch shooter for your Uberconsole that's
highly importable, then look no further. |
| Ratings |
| Overall:
8.7 | Graphics: 9.8 | Control: 9.0 | Sound: 7.8 | Fun: 8.0 |
~
Shinobi ~
|
