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Review of Ganbare Goemon: Uchū Kaizoku Akogingu on PlayStation

by Gemma Looksby Gemma Looksby photo Mar 1996
Cover image of Ganbare Goemon: Uchū Kaizoku Akogingu on PlayStation
Gamefings Score: 7.5
Platform: PlayStation PlayStation logo
Released: 22 Mar 1996
Genre: Action-Adventure
Developer: Konami
Publisher: Konami

Introduction

Welcome to the wacky world of 'Ganbare Goemon: Uchū Kaizoku Akogingu,' where you'll wield a pipe as a weapon, save the day, and maybe even question the life choices that led you to take on alien sea pirates (yes, that's a real thing). This PlayStation gem is like that random sushi roll you didn't know you needed in your life. Let's dive right in!

Gameplay

The plot kicks off with the illustrious Goemon - a ninja without a care in the world, except for his trusty sidekick Ebisumaru, whose sole desire seems to be to get into trouble (he's basically a cartoonish barnacle). One fine night, as they were snoozing away, an alarming noise wakes them up. Think of it like a bad alarm clock but with fewer regrets. Spoiler alert: it's aliens! And they want to invade Edo! Cue Goemon and Ebisumaru to the rescue. Gameplay closely resembles 'Ganbare Goemon 3,' transporting players through a series of delightful 2D side-scrolling levels while simultaneously facing dastardly obstacles and sneaky enemies. The overhead map features some impressive depth for the PlayStation, which at the time felt revolutionary, possibly making you wonder if you should flip your console upside down. New players can expect platforming, some exciting boss battles, and sneak-peek time travels (if you believed that, I have a lovely time machine to sell you). As per usual, each scroll has its enemies-watch out! Are you ready to be schooled by all sorts of in-game characters? Of course, you are. They do love throwing in the random mini-games too, where you can collect items and earn extra goodies. Living the life of a pirate never looked so enticing! By the way, the game's soundtrack is a feast for your ears. It features a cocktail of brand new tracks along with some remixes that will have you humming long after the game session. Trust me, those earworms are stronger than a 12-pound leash on a hyperactive puppy!

Graphics

Graphically, Ganbare Goemon: Uchū Kaizoku Akogingu gives you a nostalgic punch in the face, and not the bad kind. This was the '90s golden era of gaming where pixel art reigned supreme and attempting to figure out the jagged pieces of your character was an Olympic sport. The graphics do an admirable job of showcasing color and vibrancy-everything looks like it flew straight out of a manga. Fans of anime-style art will find themselves nodding enthusiastically. Try not to drool too much, folks! While you'll appreciate the textures-yes, even the pixelated backgrounds-the dated visual choices are sometimes enough to make you question if you accidentally switched to a retro console. But hey, sometimes it's about the trip down memory lane, not the destination. Being a wacky samurai with a bazooka in a 2D platformer never felt so colorful! All we can say is, it's like sushi with a side of deep-fried tempura: a bit of everything for everyone.

Conclusion

'Ganbare Goemon: Uchū Kaizoku Akogingu' isn't just a whimsical action-adventure; it's a delightful homage to '90s gaming culture. If you're looking for solid platforming mixed with a hint of comedy, it's worth your time. Let's be real: after saving Edo from space pirates, wearing that goofy grin on your face will be totally deserved. Though its quirkiness might not capture every gamer's heart, it has that magic ingredient that can make you laugh and occasionally scratch your head in confusion. So pop that pizza pocket in the microwave, grab your controller, and prepare yourself for a journey filled with absurdity and fun. All aboard - the pirate ship is leaving, and you don't want to miss it!

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