 Sparkster Every once in a while, I come across an old school game that I vaguely remember from my childhood. Upon searching through a bin full of SNES games at Gamestop, I came across one called Sparkster. It sounded familiar, and because it was only four bucks, I decided to pick it up. I would soon find out I used to play this game at a local toy store when I was only ten years old. Needless to say, Sparkster is an enjoyable platformer that is worth a try. Sparkster is actually the second version of a sequel to Konami's overlooked classic Rocket Knight Adventures (released on Genesis in 1993). The star of the game was Sparkster - a wallaby knight who had the unique pleasure of using a jetpack to his aid. The game did well enough to produce a sequel on the same system, simply entitled Sparkster. A year later, Konami decided to bring the short-lived series to the SNES. This game, also called Sparkster, is the game that I will be reviewing. DO NOT confuse it with the Genesis version - they are two entirely different games!
Ever since I first played Sparkster, I was impressed by the game's visuals. From the vivid landscapes of each stage to the beautifully animated character sprites, Sparkster is one of the best looking platformers on the system. One particular area where the graphics shine are during boss sequences. Konami, being no stranger to enemies that take up two thirds of the screen, did an excellent job bringing these bosses to life. Unfortunately, good graphics come at a price. Slowdown is very noticible, especially during boss fights.
Like most SNES games, your character jumps by using the B button, and attacks by using Y. Holding down the Y button and releasing it a second or two later allows Sparkster to use his jetpack and charge in any direction, hitting anything in his path. This move is essentially the basis of the entire game, as you will find yourself using it quite often. Another useful addition is using the L and R buttons to perform multiple rolls in mid-air. For the most part, the play control is responsive. However, in times of slowdown, it can be a bit sluggish.
When you boil it all down, Sparkster is simply a fun game to play. Although 80% of the game is platforming, I was actually surprised by the amount of variety in this game. For example, the third stage has Sparkster riding on a huge robotic ostrich (at high speed, mind you). In Stage 7, Sparkster embarks on an outer space shooting adventure, similar to what you might find in a Gradius game. At any rate, there is rarely a dull moment in the game, and when there is, it'll go by so fast you won't even notice it. If you liked the original Rocket Knight Adventures, or you just plain enjoy platformers, you won't go wrong with this one. Score: 3.2 (B)
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Phew...now that our brief history lesson is over, let's start talking about the game! Sparkster uses the standard save the princess" storyline. Apparently, a knight named Axel has kidnapped a princess, so it's up to Sparkster to save her. If he didn't, we wouldn't have a game, now would we? ;) Yes, it's horribly cliche, but it works for this type of game. No harm done.
Sparkster's soundtrack is filled with catchy, synthesized music. Highlights include the first stage theme which sets a heroic tone for the rest of the game, and the boss theme which is so intense that it more than compensates for any slowdown that may occur.
On the normal difficulty, Sparkster has a pretty well balanced challenge. Sure, there are a few tricky parts here and there (the boss at the end of stage 7, for example), but nothing that'll make you stop playing. The length of the game depends on which difficulty level you choose. On the easiest level, you only play through a select number of stages. On the normal difficulty, you play through all 8 stages. There is a 9th stage for those who dare to play the hardest difficulty (good luck). Luckily, if you get stuck and want to quit, there is a password system that allows you to continue in the stage where you last played.