1943: The Battle of Midway
Nintendo Entertainment System
1988
Released By:Capcom
There's not really that much I can say that hasn't already been said about Capcoms extremely popular shooter 1943. This game was huge when it was first released, and is just as much fun to play today. 1943 is everything a sequel should be, and then some.
It's a real marvel to look at. Bright colors and lots of plane detail are highlights in this title. The animation is really top notch too. You'll see you opponents planes roll, dive, and weave across the screen, and you will do much of the same as you pilot thru the game. The impact explosions are well done, as is your special weapon animation. The package is very fluid, with an arcade style feel. Great presentation in this title.
Lots of graphic detail give this title a "true to the arcade" feel
Game play is just as rewarding. Gone is the one hit death from 1942, as is the multiple lives. This title relies on a very unique fuel system that determines how many hits you can take, and how far you can go without a power-up. There's a lot of strategy in the power-up system, you have to choose between adding fuel or temporarily increasing the power of your main gun, and making the wrong choice could end up costing you your life. When you run out of fuel, its insta death as soon as you get shot, so fuel management is absolutely vital to the game. It's a feature that makes the title feel unique, and leads to less of the frustration that 1942 had. Don't be fooled though, this game is still very difficult. At nearly all times you will be swamped with way more then you can handle, and it's quite possible to be combating opponents in the air and on the ground at the same time. This one isn't for the faint of heart.
You will find yourself frequently swarmed by enemies
Apparently someone at Capcom figured out that good music really does make the game much more enjoyable. The original work done in this title is great. A special background tune plays when you start to run out of fuel, and although it's a tad irritating to listen to, it conveys the appropriate sense of urgency.
I have very little to complain about here. Aside from the difficulty factor, one that may frustrate a lot of gamers, this is an excellent title, and a must own.
Final Score 8.5/10
Good: Graphics, Control, Sound, New fuel system
Bad: Level of difficulty way to high for most gamers
Recommended to Play? Yes
Recommended to Purchase? Yes
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