Alright, GamerFan, ready to dive into some Spy Hunter? Let’s see if we can crack this game wide open.
Pops the cartridge into the NES
Absolutely! I’ve been looking forward to this all week. It’s already a classic, even though it’s new to the NES. I love how it ported over from the arcade version. I read some great tips in the latest Nintendo Power that I’m excited to try out.
Yeah, after reading about it in Nintendo Power, I’ve got high hopes for this one. First up, let’s get these machine guns firing and make sure we don’t hit any civilians.
Yes, that instant disqualification is a headache. But the weapons van is a genius addition. Enhancing your car with equipment like the smoke screen and oil slick really spices up the gameplay.
The shifting environments keep you on edge too. I like how the road splits and transforms in certain parts, turning your car into a boat. It reminds me of the stage changes in Metroid. You’ve got to stay on your toes!
Absolutely. Oh, look, we’re approaching the boathouse! Ready for a transformation? This moment never gets old, does it?
Never. I read that the developers, Bally Midway, did a fantastic job capturing the thrills of the arcade in this port. Did you know the same team worked on RoboCop for the NES? Midway is really making a name for themselves in 1987.
Maneuvers through the enemy cars, weaving through traffic
That’s interesting! Oh, here comes the winter section. Let’s see if our reflexes stack up against those icy patches. Do you think you’ll ever get used to dodging bombs from that helicopter?
I doubt it. It’s like every time I just start to get comfortable, BAM, there’s another bomb! It’s relentless, but that’s what keeps us coming back, right?
Right! The competition is unbelievable! Have you noticed how the road layout cleverly tricks you into splitting up while it sneaks in the enemies?
Yeah, it’s quite brilliant. Then there are the side roads—hidden paths—like in Legend of Zelda, that can either be shortcuts or death traps. Keeps that adrenaline going.
And don’t forget, the screen even changes to different seasons! It makes it visually interesting, not like some other one-note racing games out now. Plus, it’s really clever with the subtle hints it gives without making the game too easy or too hard.
Alright, this should be it – the final encounter! Remember, spoilers ahead. Once we reach the end, we face…that armored limo. I’ve heard it’s almost impossible to break through without precise timing. Let’s see if these missiles will do the job.
Their eyes widen as the limo appears…
So close now – oh, there it is! Time for some intense action. Aim well, and…YES! We did it. That ending though, leaves something to be desired. It’s kind of sudden, wouldn’t you say?
I’d have to agree. The climax feels abrupt for all the buildup. Still, the journey was filled with enough thrills to make it all worth it. For a game from 1987, it certainly holds up.
Indeed. The mix of driving, shooting, and changing environments keeps it engaging. And with little touches like those enemy limos and helicopters, it’s just challenging enough. I would probably give it a solid 6.5 out of 10.
Perfect score. It’s not flawless, and that abrupt ending drops it a notch, but the overall execution and replayability make up for it. Now, any game tips to share from your research?
For sure. A great trick is staying closer to the middle of the road when helicopters are around, giving you more reaction time to avoid their bombs. Also, regularly switching between weapons keeps the enemies guessing and lessens the chance of getting cornered.
Great advice, GamerFan. I think this is a game we’ll continue to come back to. Solid mechanics, continuous challenge, and just the right amount of 1987 charm.
Couldn’t agree more. Now, what’s next on our NES adventure list?
Perhaps a bit of Mega Man? You know I can’t resist a good action platformer.
Excellent choice. Let’s dive in! After one more run on Spy Hunter!
Final Thought
Spy Hunter is a thrilling mix of driving, shooting, and strategy, making it a staple for fans of action and racing games in 1987. Despite some minor flaws, it’s a high-speed adventure worth every minute.
He's a true connoisseur of vintage games and consoles, with a deep-seated passion for all things retro gaming. His love for gaming transcends time, as he immerses himself in the rich history of gaming and delights in sharing his knowledge and experiences with others.
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