PlayStation 2

SkyGunner

I have almost nothing negative to say about Sky Gunner. Aside from the slowdown and the lack of two-player co-op play, Sky Gunner is a wonderful game. Also, it must be said that the US version has a code that adjusts the game to a constant 30 frames per second and no slowdown, instead of 60 with some slowdown. Unlocking new modes, three new characters, and other options in Sky Gunner definitely gives this game a good boost in the replay department. For more on all of the secrets in the game, visit the official Atlus website (www.atlus.com) and enter the Sky Gunner page. You can also post your Sky Gunner scores on the website and fight for Sky Gunner supremacy. Don't miss out on Sky Gunner folks. It's a wholehearted recommendation, as this game gets two big thumbs up from yours truly. This is the first standout sleeper of the year.

It's been a while, but Sky Gunner's keep from the American shores is no longer an issue. What was once a Japanese only release is now here for you to tear into to with zipping, flipping, ducking, diving, and doing whatever else you can to save the day and become the hero of the moment. Sky Gunner is novel enough that it never fails to be less than fun to play, even though there's a few minor glitches getting in its way for a full bred 3D shooter that's nonetheless but an awesome experience for really anyone who's into the genre, or for just about anyone in general all the same.

On the bright side, Skygunner's clean, crisp, graphics are refreshing, with inviting blue skies and scenic towns below. The orchestrated musical score is majestic, and the voice dialogue may be set to either English or Japanese. I had high hopes for Skygunner, but despite all the fancy window dressing, I found its gameplay to be less than engaging.