Sparkster

"A great sequel to the original."

Introduction
Considering how good the original game was, I just had to get the sequel the minute I heard of it. And so I did and I loved it. The Original is pretty good, but this game has its ups and downs compared to the original, but it is still a good follow up to the original.

Gameplay 90%
This game is pretty fun. There are many interesting bosses like the Snake Lord or King Gedol. You have many interesting items like the Flame Orb and Jewels which give you a chance to get a random Item. The Auto-charge feature is a nice touch and the new ''corkscrew spin'' is a fun move to use. But Sparkster has lost some things in the sword department like the fact that it no longer had long range attacks, but there is also the use of the Flame Orb which increases attack power. And also, Sparkster has three less Hearts which stinks because this game can get pretty tough sometimes. There are also these Swords you can collect to ascend to Gold Sparkster. You can also pilot a Robot which most of the time is used for fighting your rival's Robot.

Graphics 100%
Needless to say, wow. Sparkster has a cool new look and Axle Gear does too. Everything is richly detailed with beautiful color and texturing which just scream out the full capabilities of the Genesis.

Sound 85%
The Music is pretty catchy, but not as good as the Original game. The Music is also a pretty nice fit to its environment and situation. You will be glad there is a sound test in this Game after a while.

Story 75%
Basically, Axle Gear (Sparkstar's rival) kidnaps Princes Cherry and it's up to You to rescue her. But this is the cause of a certain King Gedol and his Army is breaking up alliances and wreaking havoc across the world. this game can add a little more light to the cliche 'ed ''rescue the princess'' scenario considering that the kidnapping was not related to the plans of King Gedol.

Replay value 90%
The game can stay fun for quite a good while. If You already beat it there is always the challenge of getting the seven Swords to ascend to Gold Sparkstar or trying to beat it on an increasing level of difficulty.

Final recommendation
I would strongly urge you to get this game, if you still like the original game, you will be addicted to this game.

Reviewer's Score: 10/10, Originally Posted: 06/26/03, Updated 06/26/03