Thunder Force II

The Good
The graphics in this game were great. On both the overhead and side scrolling levels there are exceptionally detailed sprites and backgrounds. The boss characters on the side scrolling levels are quite detailed.

This was one of Technosofts first console games and it has some new and innovative ideas that just didn't work out well in application. But it is different.

The Bad
the control left a lot ot be desired in the overhead levels and the difficulty level would be considered more tedious and hap-hazard than challenging.

The overhead levels in this game are simplay annoying. You have to wonder around shooting targets, but you aren't on a logical map. So you basically have to wonder around aimlessly hoping you destroy what you are supposed to. I've heard that its supposed to be related to how fast you destroy the various targets rather than their location. The terrible control in the overhead levels almost ruins the game.

Its also not a very long game. There is at least one level missing in this game that is in the computer version. This was because of the limitations in the media of the time and couldn't really be helped.

The Bottom Line
Its fun to play once or twice if you can pick it up on eBay for a few dollars. I wouldn't spend more than that on it. Thunder Force III and IV are vastly superior to this game. Elemental Master is another one you'll like if you like this game. Its like the overhead levels in Thunder Force 2 graphic-wise, but it controls much better and is linear.