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Zero Wing

86%Game Brain Score
music, graphics
gameplay, story
86% User Score Based on 74 reviews

Platforms

PCWindowsLinuxMac OSSega Mega DriveSteam Deck

About

"Zero Wing" is a classic side-scrolling shoot 'em up game where players control a space ship fighting against enemy forces. The game is known for its memorable and often mistranslated phrases, such as "All your base are belong to us." Players must navigate through various levels, battling enemy ships and bosses, while upgrading their ship with power-ups. The game features a memorable soundtrack and challenging gameplay that will test the player's reflexes and strategy.

Zero Wing screenshot
Zero Wing screenshot
Zero Wing screenshot
Zero Wing screenshot
Zero Wing screenshot
Zero Wing screenshot
Zero Wing screenshot
Zero Wing screenshot
Zero Wing screenshot
Zero Wing screenshot
Zero Wing screenshot
+3

86%
Audience ScoreBased on 74 reviews
music10 positive mentions
gameplay2 negative mentions

  • Zero Wing is a solid classic shmup with engaging gameplay and quality of life improvements like rewind and autofire options, making it more accessible to players.
  • The graphics and sound design are top-notch for the era, providing a visually appealing experience that holds up well.
  • The game is well-suited for portable play on devices like the Steam Deck, making it a great option for gaming on the go.
  • The port lacks the iconic intro cutscene and features a less favorable soundtrack compared to the Mega Drive version, which disappointed many fans.
  • The user interface and default settings are poorly designed, making it difficult for players to navigate and customize their experience.
  • Some emulation issues persist, including sound problems and input lag during intense gameplay, which detracts from the overall experience.
  • music
    30 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Overall, the music in this game has received mixed reviews, with many players expressing a strong preference for the superior soundtracks of the Mega Drive/Genesis versions over the arcade version. While some appreciate the game's music and sound design for its era, others criticize the arcade soundtrack as lacking depth and quality, with requests for options to switch between soundtracks or include additional versions. Additionally, there are reports of music stuttering in later stages, which detracts from the overall experience.

    • “The graphics, music, and sound design are all top notch for the era it came out.”
    • “Amazing game, music, and graphics.”
    • “If they add an option to choose which soundtrack or even just add the other versions of the game, I think that would go a long way and make a truly comprehensive edition of Zero Wing.”
    • “The arcade version also has frankly the worst soundtrack, with none of the hard-hitting bass of the Genesis version or the epic orchestration of the CD version.”
    • “Edit: The game's music seems to stutter on later stages; hopefully this gets fixed, but this should not happen.”
    • “If they add an option to choose which soundtrack or even just add the other versions of the game, I think that would go a long way and make a truly comprehensive edition of Zero Wing, though I understand that likely takes additional licensing and may be too costly to be practical.”
  • graphics
    12 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The graphics are widely praised for their vibrant pixel art and smooth scrolling, particularly in the arcade version compared to the Genesis. While the overall visual presentation, along with the music and sound design, is considered top-notch for its time, users have criticized the user interface and default settings as subpar.

    • “Graphics are fantastic with smooth scrolling and no shimmering.”
    • “Amazing game, music, and graphics.”
    • “The UI and default settings are horrible (especially default graphic and keyboard settings).”
    • “The graphics, music, and sound design are all top notch for the era it came out.”
    • “... yes it's not the Genesis version, it's the arcade; it has better graphics than the Genesis version.”
  • gameplay
    6 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The gameplay of Zero Wing features a unique grab/toss mechanic that allows players to pull in enemies to use as shields or projectiles, but its limited application primarily to bombs feels like a missed opportunity for deeper engagement. While this mechanic adds a distinctive element, it may not significantly enhance the overall gameplay experience, especially considering the game's age from 1989.

    • “The unique mechanic for Zero Wing is a grab/toss system that lets you pull in enemies and then either use them as a shield or throw them around.”
    • “However, this mechanic doesn't have much use outside of bombs.”
    • “Seems like a missed opportunity for spicing up the gameplay, but then again this game is from 1989, so I'll cut it some slack.”
  • story
    2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The story is criticized for its lack of clarity, as it begins with an assumption that players are already familiar with the characters and their backgrounds, which can lead to confusion and disengagement.

    • “The story starts as if you are supposed to know who all these people are.”
  • stability
    2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Users report that after adjusting the UI and control mapping, the game runs smoothly and reliably, indicating a generally stable performance once initial setup is completed.

    • “Once you adjust the UI and control mapping, the game runs great!”

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