Alright, GamerFan, you ready to tackle Space Harrier on the NES? I’ve heard this port is… interesting.
Oh yes, I’ve also heard the whispers! Let’s just say it has quite the reputation. Shall we dive in and see for ourselves?
Absolutely. So, Space Harrier. Originally an arcade classic from 1985, it brought some cutting-edge pseudo-3D graphics back then. The NES port… well, let’s just say the limitations are pretty obvious.
I do love the concept of running, flying, and dodging obstacles while returning fire on waves of bizarre aliens. Armed with that oversized gun that seems straight out of a Saturday morning cartoon is just the cherry on top.
Oh, for sure. But let’s talk navigation – it’s atrocious! Trying to regulate the hero’s speed when he’s always in motion? It’s like trying to jog on a treadmill from hell.
Not to mention the collision detection feels off. Sometimes, I swear I dodge a tree, but still, my hero smacks into it. And the bosses… Oh, the bosses!
Yeah, the end-of-level bosses are a mixed bag. Some are laughably easy, others are absurdly challenging. Did you see that one that resembles some kind of weird dragon? It’s like they pulled it straight from a fever dream.
It’s as if they wanted to balance out the mindless wave of regular enemies with something, anything, memorable. It’s both fantastic and tragic at the same time. And let’s not forget the music. It’s catchy but identical to the arcade version, though the poor NES hardware didn’t do it any justice.
True, true. But credit where it’s due, the game is ambitiously trying to recreate the Fantasy Zone universe’s quirky charm. The tech of 1989 really wasn’t built for this.
Speaking of 1989, it’s a monumental year for gaming. We’ve got the Game Boy, Sega Genesis hitting the markets, and the absolute masterpiece that is Super Mario Bros. 3. Meanwhile, Space Harrier feels like that one forgotten family member at the reunion.
Possible synonym for awkward uncle, no? Oh well, hint for fellow players: hold on to that turbo button. This game really punishes anyone who tries to take it slow. And, if you spend too long on any one level, you may be in for a rough time when you inevitably face those relentless end bosses.
Absolutely. Turbo is your best friend here, as are sharp reflexes. Also, don’t get distracted by the flashy backgrounds. They’re repetitive but deceptively hypnotic. Anyone prone to vertigo, be warned!
GamerFan, let us talk about the ending. Spoilers ahead! If you manage to survive the labyrinth of obstacles and weirdly pretty alien landscapes, you face the final boss, a… what was that thing? A hybrid of a jet engine and an angry toaster?
Ha! Yes, the final showdown. The ultimate test of patience and perseverance. Defeating it is like winning a marathon: exhausting but underwhelming. The ending screen feels like a hastily scribbled ‘Better luck next time!’ on a Post-it note.
Couldn’t have said it better myself. The development team behind this, including the notable Yu Suzuki, has definitely done better – he’s the genius behind Out Run and After Burner. We can give them a pass for this one, can’t we?
Agreed. Every genius has their off days, after all. Besides, this game can still be a charmingly frustrating relic.
Well, that’s Space Harrier for you in a nutshell. A fascinating, if flawed, piece of arcade history. I enjoyed the ride, even if it felt like riding a bucking bronco.
Cheers to that. On to the next one?
Absolutely!
