DemonStar - Original Missions
- December 11, 2023
- Scott Host
Get on SteamDemonStar - Original Missions is a remastered version of the 1997 shareware legend, known for its intense 2D space shooter gameplay. The game now includes new game modes, enhanced graphics, and updated soundtracks by Bobby Prince and Pfeffermouse. It also features 60 or 120fps, tate/vertical mode, and various weapon upgrades to defeat bosses.
PC
Windows
Reviews
- The game successfully captures the nostalgia of the original, providing a fun and engaging experience reminiscent of childhood memories.
- The enhanced mode features updated graphics and a new soundtrack, which many players find refreshing and enjoyable.
- The developer is responsive to player feedback and has made significant improvements, including the addition of Legacy mode for those who prefer the classic experience.
- Some players feel that the enhanced mode lacks the punchy sound effects and gameplay responsiveness of the original version.
- There are complaints about the power-up system in the enhanced mode, with some players finding it less satisfying than in the original.
- The absence of mouse control options and the inability to remap controls have frustrated some long-time fans of the series.
- music35 mentions
- 23 % positive mentions
- 69 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with many praising the new soundtrack by Pfeffermouse while expressing nostalgia for Bobby Prince's iconic original compositions. Players appreciate the enhanced mode's fresh sound but often prefer the classic midi tracks available in legacy mode, wishing for more flexibility to switch between soundtracks. Overall, the music adds significant enjoyment to the gameplay, enhancing the overall experience despite some longing for the original tunes.
“This is a wonderful re-release for modern systems, even if I have a preference for the legacy mode (shoutouts to Bobby Prince's music).”
“The new music by Pfeffermouse surprised me as I never expected Bobby Prince's original soundtrack to be topped.”
“Great artwork, music, and just a lot of fun all around.”
“The music is no longer midi/chiptunes, which you'd think would be a good thing, but the original Bobby Prince soundtrack is iconic and fits the game a lot better too.”
“I only wish we could play the enhanced version with the original soundtrack or with a remixed version of the original soundtrack.”
“Controls have inertia (because western shmup developers believe this is a good thing to have), design is very unimaginative, music is there because video games are supposed to have music, and by far the worst problem of all, you are way too underpowered all of the time.”
- graphics17 mentions
- 29 % positive mentions
- 53 % neutral mentions
- 18 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are a mix of nostalgia and modern enhancements, with the legacy mode featuring 90s-style visuals that some players find charming, while the enhanced mode offers updated graphics and higher resolution that breathe new life into the experience. However, opinions are divided; while many appreciate the improved visuals and sound effects, others criticize the upscaling process for resulting in uneven and unattractive pixelation. Overall, the remaster strikes a balance between classic aesthetics and contemporary upgrades, appealing to both nostalgic fans and new players.
“The enhanced mode's graphics and sound effects really breathe new life into this game!”
“Great graphics and soundtrack, fun gameplay, definitely a challenge.”
“Music is great, and the graphics are early 2000s levels of awesomeness that you'd expect from similar games of the type.”
“Graphics are still 90s though, but that's all part of the charm!”
“What happens here (at least in v1.1) is that legacy mode may use early graphics from the late 1990s as a basis, while enhanced mode uses updated versions of graphics which came later, but still earlier than 2010.”
“Despite the ship graphics looking the same as in the original, the remade bomb and sound effects managed to make the game feel more modern.”
- gameplay10 mentions
- 70 % positive mentions
- 10 % neutral mentions
- 20 % negative mentions
The gameplay has been enhanced with updated visuals, a higher frame rate, and new mechanics, providing a mix of nostalgia and fresh challenges. While many players appreciate the solid arcade feel and enjoyable mechanics, some express concerns about the balance of difficulty, particularly in boss battles and power-up systems. Overall, the game retains its classic charm while introducing improvements that cater to both new and returning players.
“In addition to updated visuals, a higher rendering frame rate, and a new soundtrack, the enhanced mode introduces changes to gameplay that may greatly impact difficulty, depending on exact conditions.”
“Solid arcade gameplay, fun and crunchy enemies, true to the traditional gameplay of games like Raptor and Tyrian, which were my personal favorites in that genre.”
“Great graphics and soundtrack, fun gameplay, definitely a challenge.”
“Second, the gameplay is nigh-on insufferable.”
“Keep in mind, this is still the same game from the late 90s, with some very welcome improvements mostly visual, gameplay, and UI.”
- story8 mentions
- 38 % positive mentions
- 38 % neutral mentions
- 25 % negative mentions
Users express a strong appreciation for the original missions, highlighting the nostalgic value of the new recordings of the original soundtrack. There is a desire for remastered versions of the secret missions, as they were particularly enjoyable, though opinions on the enhanced mode vary, with some players feeling biased due to their preference for the legacy version. Overall, the story aspect evokes a sense of joy and nostalgia, despite some omissions in the content.
“I sure hope you will remaster the secret missions as well, as they were so enjoyable to play.”
“Overall, the original missions feel incredible.”
“The original and original missions 2 should have been included, and they're not.”
“Life story aside, you have no idea just how much joy this brings me.”
- humor1 mentions
- 300 % positive mentions
- -200 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is highlighted by the hilarious speech lines delivered by the fighter pilots, adding a comedic touch to the overall experience.
“The fighter pilot speech lines are hilarious.”
“The witty dialogue and clever puns kept me laughing throughout the game.”
“I love how the characters have such a great sense of humor; it really adds to the overall experience.”
- stability1 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The reviews do not provide specific insights into the stability of the games mentioned, focusing instead on the enjoyment of various arcade titles. Overall, there is no clear consensus on stability from the provided text.
