Sol-Deace for Genesis
Review #4521
Sol-Deace
Top Gun. Also one on the bottom.
Gameplay
Responsive controls. Strange mechanic where two options on top and bottom of your ship will fan out (aka angled up/down) if you move forward and the reverse if you move forward. This only happens when not shooting which allows you to adjust your shots ever so slightly. It's novel but doesn't have a huge impact on the gameplay since the angle can only be adjusted perhaps 30%.
Regardless, the gameplay here is fast and frenetic! Some segments are almost bullet hell quality while other times it's about ship placement and memorization. So it's a good blend of Gradius and R-Type.
Movement is fast but speed is not adjustable, which I'm fine with.
I wish there were more weapon upgrades but this is easily one of the best shoot-em-ups on the Genesis.
Level Design
Lots of variety. I only wish there were more levels.
A highlight is that all bosses have two phases. Some creative designs for those bosses.
Theme
Typical setting, with aliens invading the solar system and your goal of pushing them back one planet at a time. A brief message appears between levels explaining your next objective. I like it.
Art Style
Many levels look like a Thunder Force title. I also love the text font and the small, out of the way HUD.
The level with a zoomed in ship (R-Type style) is a bit of an eyesore but most everything else looks great.
Slowdown appears occasionally and some screens can become so crowded that it's hard to spot enemies and objects but overall this is a good looking game. It doesn't hold a candle to Axelay or Lightening Force, but it's pretty good.
Audio
The soundtrack is an absolute highlight. Each track is upbeat and layered with interesting sounds and riffs that get your blood pumping. Bosses have their own tracks as well.
Sounds are more of a mized bag. Your normal shots have an odd thumping quality, almost like they're hitting fabric. It's distinct and not too annoying though. Explosions sound great.
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