Game:

Cyber Core (1990)

Duration: 7:54

3,982 views

0

This is the more obscure X68000 version of Cyber Core, a pretty cool and challenging shooter that was also released for the TG16, published by IGS and NEC. The X68000 game isn't as good as the TG16/PCE game; various tweaks and balancing issues to the gameplay were implemented in the TG16/PCE game. Some examples include more flexibility to the difficulty settings, a slightly faster ship, less enemies, and (most importantly) faster power-up growth (the power-up ship takes a bit before it recognizes shots in the X68000 game, which means less overall shields and longer periods to upgrade the weapon you want). The Sharp game is less forgiving as a result and dying on later levels makes it almost impossible to continue. Naturally, the audio/visuals are superior to the TG16/PCE game.

Anyway, you assume the role of "Mellange Kato" ("Rad Ralph" in the English TG16/PCE version) who was elected by the "United Force" to destroy giant hyper-insects who are out to destroy the Earth. However, fighting the bio-monsters with mere human strength isn't enough, so Ralph has chosen to merge with an ultra lifeform known as "Chimera" to become more powerful. The result is a half man, half insect hybrid known as the Cyber Core (or Cyber-Core), capable of destroying the enemy hordes.

Kato now has the power to "metamorphose" into various powerful bug-related creatures with different firing abilities. I don't know why a bug can transform and shoot energy, but who cares right? You'll go from level to level fighting tough bosses and lots of enemies. Fighting is reminiscent to games like Dragon Spirit and games of its ilk. You can morph into different creatures depending on the items you choose to collect and you have to shoot enemies in the air or bomb foes on the ground. The game looks good and the music is strangely appealing.

The thing I don't like about this game is the size of your character. It's okay by default, but it gets bigger and bigger as it powers up. At max power, it's bigger than most normal enemies. It becomes almost impossible on later levels to maintain your size because you're simply too big and this is compounded by the slower ship in the X68000 game. You can however neglect to become too powerful and find a balance. The "Green Ship" is one of the best ships for beginners. Enjoy.