First Impressions: The classic space shooter gets a modern makeover.
Yeah, I know it’s supposed to be “Silpheed” and no, I don’t know why they changed it to a “y”. Maybe because it looks cooler – or maybe someone’s finger slipped (slypped?) on the keyboard. In any event, make no mistake: Project Sylpheed is an updated version of the classic shooter we all know and love, and it’s finally coming to North America.
That’s right – what was once a Japanese exclusive is now making its way across the Pacific to sate our spaceship blasting appetites thanks to a new publishing agreement with Microsoft (Square Enix published the title in Japan).
This fast-paced arcade space shooter is a throwback to the glory days, yet is updated with full 3D freedom of movement, crisp graphics and impressive special effects. The frantic battles are awash in bright colors as lasers, missile trails and huge explosions fill the screen.
It won’t just be a mindless shooter either; while the plot is pretty basic – protect Earth from the evil ADAN forces – the story is promising to be a classic Japanese tragedy of epic proportions featuring your typical androgynous anime heroes and villains who have insanely complex issues with each other.
In between the 50+ minutes of CG cutscenes, you will engage in several objective-based missions where you will basically blast everything in sight while evading hordes of enemies. You will fly in the third-person view and can swing the camera around your sleek fighter, which can be armed with up to three upgradeable and customizable weapons such as standard laser cannons, missiles that can lock onto several targets simultaneously, and devastating special weapons. Many weapons appear to have unlimited ammo but you will want to lay off the trigger since your weapons will overheat if you use them too much. New weapons and upgrades will be unlocked by completing missions and cashing in points.
As powerful as you might be, you will have your work cut out for you as enemies will range from large swarms of small fighters to humongous Star Destroyer-sized warships. Fortunately, you will be protected by an energy shield but it will gradually weaken as you take hits; once your shield is down, your ship will sustain damage but if you can catch a breather, your shield will recharge similar to Master Chief’s armor. Evading enemy fire will be made easier by special maneuvers like barrel rolls and quick 180 degree turns; you can also change your speed by boosting and braking, and even engage a super boost or come to a screeching halt. Your HUD will also warn you when an enemy has a missile lock on you.
Although you will be outnumbered, you will have the support of AI controlled wingmen that will respond to a limited set of commands. For example, you can tell them to attack everything in sight, follow in formation or take a defensive posture.
The game will be single player only, which is unfortunate since online multiplayer dogfights would no doubt be a ton of fun. However, the purported discounted price of $39.99 should help compensate for the lack of multiplayer.
