An essential purchase for those that remember the old Sega.
by Chris Faylor on Monday, December 11, 2006
Sega Genesis Collection on the PSP contains a good number of the Genesis's more notable games. Held together by a solid emulator and a fair amount of supplemental content, the portable collection is a must-have for Sega fans on the go.
With its 28 games, Sega Genesis Collection spans a variety of genres. Representing platformers, the now-classic Sonic the Hedgehog and Sonic 2 are just as fast and enjoyable as ever. On the same note, the colorful Ristar acts as a lost gem, highlighting an oft-forgotten platforming experience that went ignored by most due to its release at the end of the Genesis's life cycle.
Keeping with the side-scrolling, Ecco the Dolphin and its sequel provide a surreal aquatic adventure, Columns supplies the requisite puzzle-based distraction, VectorMan and VectorMan 2 focus more on fast-paced shooting action, and the bizarre Decap Attack starring Chuck D. Head follows the exploits of a mummy who can shoot his head out of his chest. Beat 'em ups like Golden Axe, Altered Beast and Comix Zone serve as reminders of a genre that peaked during the 16-bit generation. Role-playing fans will be satisfied with Phantasy Star II, III and IV, satisfies role playing gamers, the bundling of which could have been a game in itself.
Additionally, a bonus Museum listing for each game provides supplemental content, including history, tips and box art. Cooler yet, accomplishing certain objectives -- the discovery of a secret area in Ristar, a high score in Altered Beast -- unlocks additional content, ranging from creator interviews to old Sega arcade games like Space Fury, Super Zaxxon and Congo Bongo.
Unfortunately, not all of the games are classics. As it did over a decade ago, the side-scrolling Virtua Fighter 2 disappoints compared to its celebrated arcade counterpart. The action of Super Thunder Blade wears thin, thanks to the behind-the-helicopter view that obscures incoming projectiles.
GameDaily


