Hissatsu!

Description

Hissatsu!, released for the SEGA Saturn in 1996, is one of those titles that leaves mixed impressions. At first glance it attracts with its distinctive visual style and promise of intense ninja action, but deeper exploration reveals a mixture of strengths and weaknesses.

The game's main focus is on traditionally conceived action gameplay with an emphasis on stealth mechanics, which seems to be an attempt to build on the success of titles like Shinobi or Tenchu. Although Hissatsu! has its bright moments, it often feels disjointed. On the one hand, it offers the player the chance to take on the role of a deadly ninja, moving in the shadows and dispatching enemies with grace and elegance. On the other hand, the controls are at times clunky and frustrating, which can spoil the experience considerably.

Graphically, the game does not deny its age. Even at the time of its release, it wasn't one of the best that the SEGA Saturn had to offer, but it still has something going for it thanks to its atmospheric presentation. The developers were clearly trying to create an authentic and suspenseful atmosphere of feudal Japan, which they succeed in places. The backgrounds are detailed and the characters rendered with a certain amount of creativity, though they certainly deserve more animation.

The soundtrack is one of the highlights of Hissatsu!. The songs are authentic and complement the game environment well. The sounds of swords, silent footsteps, and occasional nature sounds create the feeling that you're actually in the middle of a ninja mission, which adds to the game's immersiveness.

The story line is a classic of its genre. It offers the mix of intrigue, betrayal and mystery that you would expect from a ninja title. However, the characters aren't very fleshed out and the plot twists aren't very surprising. For someone looking for a deeper story experience, this aspect may be disappointing.

It's also important to mention that Hissatsu! is not a game for everyone. The stealth mechanics and slower pace won't excite everyone, especially players used to faster action and simple gameplay. This title requires patience and diligence, which makes it appealing to a narrow group of players who will appreciate its specific style and challenges.

In conclusion, Hissatsu! is an interesting example of how developers have attempted to bring the ninja experience to the SEGA Saturn's screens. While the game is not without its flaws and feels dated in many ways, it still offers a unique atmosphere and interesting gameplay moments for those willing to accept its own rules. If you like stealth action and don't mind tougher challenges, Hissatsu! represents a sort of nostalgic trip to the 90s that's worth exploring.