Last Alert for TG-16 CD

Image: MobyGames

Last Alert

Overhead Contra

Genre: action - gun

Publisher: NEC

Year: 1990

System: TG-16 CD

Gameplay Score: 4

Gameplay Notes:

Plays like an overhead Contra. Great movement and slow projectiles make for a bullet hell experience. Also enemies continually spawn so you can't progress slowly and clear the room. Got me out of my comfort zone. Three primary that you acquire over time, including an Uzi and then machine gun which both let you lock your direction. Easy to shoot diagonally. Secondary weapons are actually helpful and can be used at the same time as your primary. Once you're powered up the game gets fairly easy but it's a rollicking good time.

Level Design Score: 4

Level Design Notes:

Each mission is broken up into three stages, with the last one ending in a boss battle. The objective switches between one of three types, which are exemplified blin the first mission: Stage 1 - get to the end Stage 2 - set bombs and escape Stage 3 - auto scroller I love the variety and simplicity, although the stages couldn't used more set pieces. They're mostly a series of barriers with enemies hiding behind to add something interesting.

Theme Score: 5

Theme Notes:

Cutscenes and story are so bad they're good. You're a Rambo clone tasked with missions fit for the Mission Impossible crew. It so over the top!

Art Style Score: 3

Art Style Notes:

Simple graphics with small sprites and limited detail or effects. There's some good variety in the stages, giving them some personality - it's not just an endless jungle. Looks like a bridge between the 8 and 16-bit eras. 12-bit?

Audio Score: 4

Audio Notes:

Upbeat and fun CD-quality music. It's got no bass and feels a little too lively for the macho theme, but I enjoyed it all the same. Sounds are fine, but the hilariously bad voice acting is the highlight. It's worth playing for this alone.

Overall Score: 79

Review ID: 10022