Prestonius482's review of SkyBlazer (SNES)
Play Control: 4Sky can move around in mid-air. Timing of jumps is easy to control, yet takes some time to master. The game utilizes most buttons in a practical way, except it doesn't allow for changing controls around. Good thing this is CC!
Graphics: 5
One of the best set of graphics for a platformer I've seen on SNES! Bosses are really cool-looking, and levels are colorful, lively, and have good shading and contrast. Level design is rather unique in that there are things I've never seen before in a platformer, which I've played a lot of in my time.
Animation: 4
A few animations are a little too repetitive, such as when Sky is standing in place. But it doesn't detract much from the experience. Boss battles and level designs contain some cool animations that are reminiscent of Castlevania 4 and other great SNES games.
Music: 4
Music is really cool, with an Arabian feel and undertones of mythic times. Subtle similarities to many other games, but overall some great music.
Sound FX: 3
Though the sound fx are good, and fit right in with the game, they are not as varied as they could have been. All bosses make the same sound when hit, which sounds like a game character getting hit by an enemy except more muffled and indistinct. The music overlays the sounds, making this aspect a supportive rather than primary element to gameplay.
Plot: 4
Plot is intriguing, yet not very deep. But this is a platformer, and there are only a few major characters. This is another similarity to Castlevania, except that Castlevania's plot is a tad deeper because of its familiarity and series-based storyline. Otherwise, it definitely sparks interest in the themes/era/culture the game portrays.
Difficulity: 5
Difficulty is well done. Not too easy, and not incredibly hard. But at times it will seem like you're not going to make it. CC save function brings hope, but I would like to try it without saving, and use the password capability. PW's are given 4-5 times throughout the game's 15-20 levels, so this would be a challenge.
Replay Value: 4
No other difficulty levels are apparent, and no two-player mode. But the game itself is really fun, especially for a leisurely time of SNES platforming. I'll play it again. Though I probably didn't miss many secrets, the game's straightforward and fun action is enough to bring me back a few times.
Over All: 4.5
Great music, graphics, and control combine with a cool story set in Arabian myth which would be really sweet as a transfer to today's consoles. Gameplay is similar to Castlevania and Prince of Persia, but without the fluidity of PoP or the classic appeal of Castlevania. For something fresh and consistently fun, give this one a play!
Read more of Prestonius482's reviews.
All copies are in use - 2 copies are available for full accounts.
