Astra Superstars

Description

Astra Superstars, created by Sunsoft for the SEGA Saturn in 1998, is an unusual fighting title that deserves attention not only for its vibrant aesthetic, but also for its novel approach to game mechanics.

At first glance, it's already obvious that Astra Superstars sets itself apart with its visuals. The graphics in this game are colourful, the animations are smooth and fluid, and the overall design of the characters and environments is full of unusual creativity and playfulness. The game uses 2D sprites on 3D backgrounds, giving the combat a dynamic and up-to-date look. Each character has a unique look and fighting style, which encourages players to try out different fighters.

However, what makes Astra Superstars truly unique is its unconventional combat mechanics. Unlike most fighting games of the time, which take place on solid ground, here the characters are floating in the air. This element of verticality brings a fresh element to the gameplay experience and forces the player to think about combat in three dimensions.

The game controls are surprisingly simple and intuitive, but offer enough depth for experienced players who want to explore advanced techniques and combos. Each of the fighters has specific special attacks that can be used for creative and devastating actions. Although it may initially take time for the player to fully grasp the options and nuances of the controls, the reward is an immersive and entertaining combat experience.

The game's audio lags behind the visuals, which is a slight disappointment. The tunes are cheerful and match the breezy tone of the game, but the sound effects sometimes feel repetitive and lack the verve that could have more strongly emphasized the intensity of the combat.

The story mode is fun, but doesn't bring anything groundbreaking. The story is simple and serves more as an excuse for players to try out all the fighters and their story arcs. However, most players will probably be drawn to the multiplayer battles, which are at the heart of the game's long-term appeal.

Astra Superstars may lack the technical excellence of some of its contemporaries, but its unique combination of vertical combat, visual style, and playability make it a memorable affair. It's a title that, even years later, still manages to impress with its originality and reminds us why the SEGA Saturn era was so fascinating and colourful.