SNES

Vortex

Above all, Vortex demonstrates that the most important element of a game isn't eye-popping Mode 7 graphics or digitized sound effects; it's rock-solid gameplay.

If you loved the graphics in Starfox and Stunt Race FX, buy this game as soon as it hits the stores. But if you prefer your polygons in Geometry class and not in your video games, you better rent this one first.

If you like polygon shooters and you don't mind a plodding pace, you'll like Vortex. However, if you want high-speed action, you'll have a zoom to a different SNES galaxy.

An interesting concept for fans of the "simulator"-type flight games. Being able to change into different vehicles is a good option and the levels are very challenging. The pace may be slow, nevertheless a unique game.

In theory, Vortex could have been an interesting and fun game. It's colorful, it's got plenty of options, and it's versatile in the gameplay department. Also, for those of you fascinated by such things, it is one of only a handful of Super NES games to feature polygon graphics. The bottom line, though, is that the game is boring and frustrating.

A good video game should "hook" the player from the start, and gradually draw him in with a reasonably ramping difficulty. The Star Fox developers knew this, but the Vortex developers apparently did not. The controls are daunting, with over 20 button combinations that will flummox casual gamers right off the bat. Then you have a bunch of time-consuming "training stages", which I found to be a serious turn-off. The first "real" stage is awfully boring, set in deep space with nothing but a fence (huh?). Worst yet, the first boss is nearly insurmountable, bringing any novice player to his knees. With shoddy design like this, Vortex never really had a chance. I'm sure there are a few dedicated players who will stick with Vortex long enough to see what it has to offer, but most will find themselves shouting "next!" after just a few minutes.