U.N. Squadron

"A tough one, but its damn fun"

This game is a great example of what a side-scrolling shooter should be: fun, interesting, and a difficulty level that requires some skill to accomplish. This is one of the more recent purchases I've made, but I've been playing it since it came out in 1991.

Gameplay: 8/10 Well, its your run of the mill side-scrolling shooter. The controls are well laid out, and easy to use. Simplicity is what you get.

Story: 5/10 This is based on an anime by the name of ''Area 88''; I've not seen it so I can't say how well it follows the anime, clearly the anime would have a more developed story. The story is: you are a pilot in a mercenary unit; you get briefings; You fly missions. Not much, I'll admit it, but you're here for action...this is an old school shooter, not FF6 so don't come looking for that kind of story.

Difficulty: 6/10 The difficulty here is quite steep and you'll curse 'Minks', I guarantee it, but you'll also be able to get good enough where the difficulty finally comes down a little. If you're truly insane, try ''Gamer'' mode, and it will teach you a new definition of pain and suffering.

Video: 10/10 This game's graphics and picture quality are top notch for when it was released, and to this day I find them quite good.

Audio: 10/10 This game's audio is cool, 'nuff said. Okay, so I'll say more. The audio is your average SNES type quality, but the tunes themselves are just really awesome. The tune when fighting the final boss is real nifty, and I even have had it stuck in my head.

Replayability: 5-10/10 If you end up liking it, you'll play this game over and over. Once I beat it, my desire to actually play went up. I've had friends that beat it and put it away for years. Its really up to you.

Buy or Rent: Well you'll never find it for rent, and you can, you're a lucky one. I bought it after trying to find it for more than 5 years (granted I lost a few auctions, but that's a side issue). I'd say buy it, since it is quite fun and gives something to do on lazy afternoon away from the newer systems.

Conclusion: It is a tough game, but you'll have fun...and in the end, that's what gaming is all about. Now if you'll excuse me, back to my F200.

Reviewer's Score: 8/10, Originally Posted: 02/22/03, Updated 02/22/03