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Ultraman: Towards the Future is a classic video game adaptation of the beloved tokusatsu series featuring the iconic giant alien hero, Ultraman. Developed by BEC and released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in 1991, this title attempts to capture the essence of Ultraman’s battles against monstrous kaiju. This article delves deep into the various aspects of the game, providing an insightful review of its story, gameplay, graphics, sound, and reception.

Story

The narrative of Ultraman: Towards the Future closely follows the plot of the television series of the same name. Set in the near future, Earth is under threat from a host of giant monsters and extraterrestrial beings. Ultraman, a member of the Space Rangers and protector of peace in the universe, arrives on Earth to defend it against these colossal threats.

The game begins with Ultraman merging with a human host, Jack Shindo, a scientist working at the Science Patrol. This fusion gives Jack the ability to transform into Ultraman, allowing him to grow to enormous sizes and wield cosmic powers. The story progresses through a series of battles against various monsters and culminates in a showdown with the ultimate antagonist, Gudis, an evil alien entity seeking to conquer Earth.

The game’s narrative is delivered through brief text screens and iconic cutscenes before and after battles, maintaining the essence of the Ultraman franchise. While the storyline might seem straightforward, it faithfully mirrors the episodic structure of the TV series, providing fans with a nostalgic experience.

Gameplay

Ultraman: Towards the Future is a side-scrolling fighting game that emphasizes strategic combat rather than button-mashing. Players assume the role of Ultraman, engaging in duels with a roster of menacing kaiju. The gameplay can be broken down into the following elements:

• Combat Mechanics: The game features a unique combat system where players must manage Ultraman’s energy meter to execute a variety of attacks. Basic moves such as punches and kicks are complemented by special moves that require precise timing and energy management. The energy meter fills over time and depletes with each special move, adding a layer of strategy to combat.
• Special Attacks: Ultraman can unleash powerful special attacks like the Specium Ray, which is his signature finishing move. Successfully executing the Specium Ray is crucial to defeating tougher enemies, as it deals substantial damage and often serves as the final blow.
• Enemy AI: Opponents in Ultraman: Towards the Future exhibit varied fighting styles and attack patterns, requiring players to adapt their strategies to each unique foe. Learning enemy patterns and timing attacks is essential to progressing through the game.
• Difficulty Levels: The game offers multiple difficulty settings, allowing players to tailor their experience. While the easier modes provide a more forgiving experience, the higher difficulties challenge players to master Ultraman’s abilities and the intricacies of each battle.

Overall, the gameplay of Ultraman: Towards the Future captures the essence of a classic beat ’em up, while incorporating unique mechanics that set it apart from other games in the genre.

Graphics and Sound

The graphical presentation of Ultraman: Towards the Future is reflective of the early 1990s SNES era. The visuals aim to recreate the look and feel of the television series, capturing Ultraman’s iconic design and the monstrous appearances of his foes.

Graphics

• Character Design: The game does an admirable job of translating the intricate designs of Ultraman and his adversaries into pixel art. Each character is well-defined, with details that are recognizable to fans of the series.
• Environments: Although the game primarily takes place in simple, repetitive backgrounds, these settings serve the purpose of focusing attention on the battles. The environments are reminiscent of the landscapes seen in the show, enhancing the game’s authenticity.
• Animation: The animation is relatively smooth for its time, with fluid movements that convey the power and agility of Ultraman. Despite the hardware limitations of the SNES, the game manages to deliver an engaging visual experience.

Sound

• Music: The soundtrack of Ultraman: Towards the Future features compositions that echo the heroic themes of the series. The music is upbeat and energizing, setting the tone for the intense battles.
• Sound Effects: The game incorporates sound effects that enhance the impact of attacks and special moves. The sounds of punches landing and powers being unleashed add to the excitement of combat.

While the graphics and sound may not be groundbreaking by today’s standards, they effectively capture the Ultraman aesthetic and provide a nostalgic experience for fans.

Legacy and Reception

Upon its release, Ultraman: Towards the Future received mixed reviews from critics and gamers alike. While some praised the game for its faithful adaptation of the Ultraman series, others criticized its repetitive gameplay and limited depth.

Critical Reception

• Positive Aspects: Many reviewers appreciated the game’s dedication to the source material, noting that it successfully captured the spirit of the Ultraman series. The strategic combat mechanics and the inclusion of iconic moves like the Specium Ray were highlighted as positive features.
• Criticisms: Common criticisms of the game included its repetitive nature and limited replay value. Some players found the gameplay to be too simplistic, lacking the variety and complexity found in other fighting games of the era.

Legacy

Despite its mixed reception, Ultraman: Towards the Future holds a special place in the hearts of Ultraman fans. As one of the few video game adaptations of the series at the time, it provided an opportunity for fans to engage with their favorite hero in a new medium.

The game’s faithful representation of the Ultraman universe and its memorable combat mechanics have contributed to its status as a cult classic. It remains a nostalgic title for those who grew up with the series and continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts of retro gaming.

Conclusion

Ultraman: Towards the Future stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Ultraman franchise. While it may not have achieved critical acclaim upon its release, the game has left a lasting impact on fans and remains a cherished part of Ultraman’s legacy.

By capturing the essence of the television series and delivering a unique combat experience, Ultraman: Towards the Future offers a nostalgic journey for fans and a glimpse into the early days of video game adaptations. Its legacy endures as a reminder of the timeless appeal of Ultraman and the enduring love for tokusatsu heroes.