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Indie developer badcomputer is back with another stellar Master System release, one that rivals even the best shmups on the console. Razing core is a fast-paced vertical shooter that will challenge even the most hardened 8-bit pilots, and it does so with virtually no slowdown or flicker. It shows what the Master System can do in capable hands and should definitely be on the radar of any shmup fans., especially for such an amazingly low price.
Sega tapped into the cultural zeitgeist with Shinobi, an action-packed title that launched one of its longest-running and beloved franchises. Joe Mushashi’s initial adventure set arcades on fire and gave players all the ninja action they could ask for, and it still holds up damn well. With varied stages, huge bosses, and great sword-slashing action, the game remains as tough to conquer today as it was in 1987. It’s still as much fun, too, and a game every action fan needs to play.
Sonic has made appearances in just about every genre out there, so why not a puzzle game? Sonic Eraser does a decent enough job representing the Blue Blur, but it’s not as deep as Columns or Dr. Robotnik’s Mean Bean Machine. It was only released in Japan as a downloadable title for the Mega Modem, so simplicity is was baked into its DNA.
While Zillion was based on a toy and anime series, it’s often compared to Nintendo’s Metroid. It doesn’t quite reach the levels of greatness of that classic, but it is still a great game with great visuals, interchangeable playable characters, and tons of action. The lack of a password or save feature hurts it, but there’s still lots of fun lurking in the Norsa Empire’s lair.
Woody Pop came bundled with Sega’s paddle controller, but it’s not necessarily the best game to use with it. Poor presentation and problematic gameplay keep it from reaching the heights of other classic paddle games like Arkanoid or Kaboom!, and it even falls short compared to similar Master System games. Unless you’re looking to complete your Master System collection, this one shouldn’t be a priority.