Sega
Force Vault
Reviewed
03.15.1998
Publisher
Sims
Developer
Sega
/ Sims
Format
1x
CD
Origin
Import
Available
Mar.
7, 1998 (Japan)
Exclusive
Yes
Difficulty
Adjustable
Dimensions
3D
View
1st
person
Genre
Flight
/ Shooter
Player(s)
1-2
Options
3D
Pad
Backup
(2)
Requires
n/a
Importable
99% |
| Intro |
|
> Yes my friends, another review from the Sega Force Vault.
Remember the 32X add-on for
Genesis? We Sega Fans didn't get a lot of games for that fledgeling
system, but there was at least a few good games released for it.
One of those was Shadow Squadron. As things go in the video
game industry, a sequel to the game is here, ready for you to import.
With the added power of the Saturn, Stellar Assault SS (SASS) has
real potential. This is especially true since the amount of 3D space
shooters coming out on Saturn is slim.
> Importing is the only way to go. The game has English menus and
game screens so importability is at 99%. Your only problem is locating
a source for this game. |
| Graphics |
|
> SASS takes up about 70% of the screen in sort of a widescreen movie view
of the action. I wish it was full screen, but the widescreen view
didn't hamper my enjoyment. The 3D polygon based world moves smoothly
and has excellent detail. Sims made sure the enemy starships and
fireball explosions are impressive. Using a first person view, the
game really puts you in the pilot's seat. |
| Control |
|
> Control is free roaming and very much like an airplane, albeit simplified.
Gameplay includes two weapons, shields, thrust and rotation of your ship.
Your navigation and hyperspace travel is handled by an autopilot.
Basically, your mission is to blow up the enemy. You're not alone
though, because computer controlled wingmen are a nice touch. Overall,
excellent response. I recommend the 3D Pad. |
| Sound |
|
> The music is decent, but mostly plays a subtle role in this title.
The sound effects are good and include lasers, engines, explosions and
lock-on queues to name a few. Plenty of voice acting (Japanese) accompanies
the action, mainly in the intros and mission briefings. |
| Fun |
|
> Not a bad ride with convincing graphics, excellent control, decent sound
and varied mission objectives. There are two ships to choose from and plenty
of space war action to be had. Flight fans rejoice! I just
wish I knew what the (Japanese) storyline was about... |
| Bottom
Line |
|
> If you liked Shadow Squadron or enjoy space shooters, then this
one's for you. It also covers a much needed genre for the Saturn,
and does a great job to boot. Imagine Star Wars without the
name. |
| Ratings |
| Overall:
8.9 | Graphics: 9.0 | Control: 9.7 | Sound: 8.5 | Fun: 8.5 |
~
Shinobi ~
|
