Anyone remember Laser Squad on the Commodore computers systems?

User Rating: 9 | Rebelstar: Tactical Command GBA
Anyone remember Laser Squad on the Commodore computers systems? This is that game in a new costume. Turn-based strategy at it's best with nice graphics and good but a bit repeating music and sound effects, I have spent many hours with this game and I can't put my finger on why I keep coming back...

Graphics:

Instead of FMV's (obviously), there are stills and short conversations and texts that drive the story forward. These are well made and the in-game presentation is really nice with good-looking menus and nice
sprites. The levels are also enjoyable to look at. The hero- and enemy sprites move very smoothly and some of the details of some levels are stunning.

88%

Sound:

Good sound effects and good music takes this game up a bit. There could have been a few more tunes but the few who are in the game are cool and catchy. As a bass-player I find the Jazz bass lines very cool and to my liking. The sound effects are great and varied.

81%

Playability:

Obviously, if you do not enjoy these kinds of games this is not for you. It takes a certain type of gamers to appreciate the turn-based system, and that is the old school player, for this is indeed an old school game. The action is quite swift though and the user interface is near perfect and after the tutorial missions you will have mastered the 4-button controls already and you will never have to think about it again. It plays like a dream and there is nothing I would change control wise. IN-GAME though, I could see how a better use for some of the weapons you can get would have improved the game play. You will never ever use the knife more than once (during the mission when you HAVE to, the first mission with Carlos the Panther). The laser sword that you recieve later in the game is very useful and powerful though, used with the right character. One annoying fact is that you can not seem to "lob" the projectiles when you use the blaster cannon but continously fire into sandbags and damage your friends. These are small things though and do not really matter much.

92%

Lastability:

Apart from the campaign mode you can play skirmishes. You can choose to play any of the races that appear in the game. What could have raised the points for this one even more would be if you could "load" your party to play the one-off skirmishes. That would have been awesome. Still, like I stated in the introduction, I keep coming back for a few missions every now and then.

84%

Overall:
A nice looking game that plays beautifully and is extremely fun and entertaining even after you've completed it.
89%