Strider II (Master System) Playthrough
3Playthrough of U.S. Gold's 1992 side-scrolling action game for the Sega Master System, Strider II.
Strider II for the Sega Master System is a side-scrolling action game developed by Tiertex and published by U.S. Gold. It serves as a sequel to the original Strider but differs significantly from Capcom’s official arcade follow-up, Strider 2. Unlike its predecessor, which was known for its fast-paced acrobatics and fluid animation, this version of Strider II features a more straightforward action-platforming approach with a slower pace and rigid movement.
The game follows Strider Hiryu, a futuristic ninja equipped with a plasma sword, as he embarks on a mission to defeat the evil Grandmaster once again. The story takes him across various environments, from industrial complexes to icy landscapes and enemy fortresses, where he must battle an array of robotic and human enemies. Each stage presents different challenges, requiring players to fight through hordes of adversaries while navigating platforms, ladders, and hazardous terrain.
Strider II retains some of the core elements of the original game, such as Hiryu’s signature sword attacks and his ability to climb walls and ceilings. However, the gameplay is less refined, with slower combat mechanics and limited acrobatic movement. Enemy encounters often rely on simple attack patterns, making combat feel repetitive compared to the fast, dynamic action of the first game. Weapon upgrades and power-ups are available throughout the levels, providing some variety, but the overall level design lacks the verticality and complexity that made the original Strider stand out.
Visually, the game makes decent use of the Sega Master System’s capabilities, with detailed backgrounds and distinct character sprites. The color palette is somewhat limited, and animations are less fluid compared to other action games on the platform. The music and sound effects are serviceable but do not capture the intensity and energy of the original arcade title. Despite these limitations, Strider II remains a playable action game that attempts to continue the legacy of its predecessor, though it ultimately falls short of recapturing the excitement and innovation that defined the Strider series.