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Pulstar (1995)

Aicom

Arcade, Neo Geo AES, Neo Geo CD, Neo Geo MVS, PC (Microsoft Windows)

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The basic gameplay is simple: progress through the levels in the spacecraft, collecting powerups and protecting the spacecraft from destruction. The game has very obvious similarities in design and gameplay to R-Type. It is actually believed that some ex-Irem employees left the company to join Aicom, which used to be a subcontractor for various coin-op manufacturers like Jaleco or SNK. … The basic gameplay is simple: progress through the levels in the spacecraft, collecting powerups and protecting the spacecraft from destruction. The game has very obvious similarities in design and gameplay to R-Type. It is actually believed that some ex-Irem employees left the company to join Aicom, which used to be a subcontractor for various coin-op manufacturers like Jaleco or SNK.

Despite the familiarities, Pulstar is not without innovations. There is the option of using the weapon power bar, which consists of two halves. The right-hand side of the bar turns blue when the fire button is depressed. When fully charged the ship delivers a devastating emission of energy. The left-hand side turns red when it is continually pressed, shooting out a barrage of smaller, rapid blasts.

The in-game visuals are mostly pre-rendered 3D graphics, which gives the interactive elements a far more realistic appearance. Great care was taken to really place the player into the world of the game, with cinematic style cut scenes and pre-rendered movies.

There is a hefty reliance on strategy and not just blasting everything in sight. Using the charged weapon is key, and requires careful precision. Also, once a power up is obtained, a small orb appears at the posterior end of the ship. This can be used as an advantage by deflecting/absorbing oncoming enemy fire and taking out small enemies that run into it. Read more

Details

Developers
Aicom
Publishers
SNK
Genres
Arcade, Indie, Shooter
Themes
Action, Science fiction, Survival

Release dates

  • Aug 28, 1995 (Japan) Arcade
  • Sep 29, 1995 (Japan) Neo Geo AES
  • Oct 27, 1995 (Japan) Neo Geo CD
  • Oct 27, 1995 (North America) Neo Geo CD
  • Jan 09, 2016 (Japan) PC (Microsoft Windows)

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