Shippu Senki Force Gear 2 brings some deeply challenging, satisfying Mega Man-like action (and some incredible chiptunes to back it up) in this week’s IG+ First Look.
I couldn’t read a word of what any of the game’s text said, but when those chiptunes started slamming my eardrums, I understood all I needed to know about this fast-paced sidescrolling shooter. You can choose between a melee or firearm-using warrior, taking them into an array of levels filled with nasty robots you need to blast to pieces. You’re not the most durable protagonist, so don’t take too many hits. You are a very persistent one, though, as the game lets you try again as many times as you like.
Items will help you get through things as well. You can pick up edible collectibles all over the place that you can save to heal yourself in a pinch. Very handy stuff, assuming you don’t use it all when you’re doing a terrible run at a boss, as you may respawn, but your goodies will be gone. And I certainly learned that the hard way.
The gunplay felt great, with the gun firing as fast as you can tap the button, with durable enemies making you really want to hammer that button. More than that, the bosses had a complex array of moves with varied timing and attack patterns, making each fight feel quite intense and involved. The single boss I fought took ages to overcome, but I couldn’t deny a sense of satisfaction when I finally got those patterns down. Even if the game DID seem like it was taking it easy on me.
Shippu Senki Force Gear 2 is one sharp Mega Man-like, with excellent chiptunes, bosses, enemies, and weapon systems, and is a must play for anyone who digs the Blue Bomber. Plus it’s available by donation, so there’s no excuse not to get on it.
Shippu Senki Force Gear 2 is available now (for whatever you wish to pay for it) on itch.io.