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Story
Journey from Darkness: Strider ReturnsNA is an action-packed platformer that continues the story of the iconic Strider Hiryu. This sequel to the original Strider game takes place in a dystopian future where chaos reigns, and the world is on the brink of destruction. The protagonist, Hiryu, is a highly skilled ninja and a member of the elite Strider organization. His mission is to thwart the plans of the evil Grandmaster Meio, who is hell-bent on conquering the world and imposing his tyrannical rule.
The narrative sets off with Hiryu receiving intel about Meio’s resurgence and his plans to unleash darkness upon the world. As Hiryu, players traverse through multiple environments, each teeming with enemies and formidable bosses. The story unfolds primarily through gameplay and environmental storytelling, with occasional cutscenes that provide context and motivation for Hiryu’s perilous journey. The narrative is straightforward, focusing on the hero’s quest to dismantle Meio’s army and restore peace.
Gameplay
Journey from Darkness: Strider ReturnsNA offers a classic side-scrolling platforming experience, staying true to its predecessor’s roots while introducing new elements to enhance the gameplay. The game challenges players with its fast-paced action and requires quick reflexes and strategic thinking. Here’s a breakdown of the key gameplay elements:
Combat and Abilities
Players control Hiryu as he maneuvers through levels filled with various enemies. Hiryu wields his signature weapon, the Cypher, a plasma sword that can cut through adversaries with ease. The combat system is straightforward, focusing on slicing through enemies and making strategic use of Hiryu’s agility and speed. The game introduces new abilities and power-ups that Hiryu can acquire, adding depth and variety to the combat mechanics.
Level Design
The levels in Journey from Darkness: Strider ReturnsNA are intricately designed, incorporating a mix of vertical and horizontal platforming. Each level presents unique challenges and obstacles, such as moving platforms, environmental hazards, and enemy placements that test the player’s skill and timing. The game encourages exploration, with hidden paths and secret areas that reward players with bonuses and power-ups.
Boss Battles
Boss battles are a highlight of the game, offering intense and challenging encounters that require players to learn attack patterns and devise strategies. Each boss is distinct, with unique abilities and weaknesses that Hiryu must exploit to succeed. These battles serve as pivotal moments in the game, providing a sense of accomplishment and progression.
Graphics and Sound
Visuals
For its time, Journey from Darkness: Strider ReturnsNA delivered impressive visuals that captured the essence of a dystopian future. The art style is detailed, with vibrant colors and well-defined character sprites. The game’s environments are diverse, ranging from industrial complexes to lush forests, each with its own atmospheric flair. The visual design effectively immerses players in the world, enhancing the overall experience.
Audio
The soundtrack of Journey from Darkness: Strider ReturnsNA complements the gameplay with its energetic and dynamic compositions. The music adapts to the action on screen, heightening the tension during combat and boss battles. Sound effects are crisp and impactful, from the swoosh of Hiryu’s Cypher to the explosions of defeated enemies. The audio design plays a crucial role in maintaining the game’s pace and excitement.
Legacy and Reception
Journey from Darkness: Strider ReturnsNA received mixed reviews upon its release. Critics and players praised the game for its engaging gameplay and challenging level design, which stayed true to the spirit of the original Strider. However, some noted that the sequel did not innovate significantly beyond its predecessor and pointed out the lack of a save feature, which made progression particularly difficult for some players.
Despite the mixed reception, the game has retained a cult following over the years. It is often remembered for its intense action sequences and nostalgic appeal, particularly among fans of the original Strider. The game’s difficulty and classic platformer mechanics have become a point of fondness for retro gaming enthusiasts who appreciate its old-school challenge.
Conclusion
Journey from Darkness: Strider ReturnsNA may not have revolutionized the platforming genre, but it succeeded in delivering a solid continuation of the Strider saga. Its emphasis on fast-paced action, challenging gameplay, and atmospheric design has left a lasting impression on players who experienced it during the era of 16-bit gaming. While it may not have reached the iconic status of its predecessor, the game remains a notable entry in the Strider series, remembered for its commitment to classic platforming excellence and its contribution to the legacy of Strider Hiryu.
