Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Space Chase III: Showdown In Orbit builds on the side-scrolling platform foundations of its predecessors while pushing the action-adventure balance to new heights. As Major Jason Storm infiltrates the orbiting fortress of Evil Guys Inc., players must navigate ten intricately designed levels filled with hidden keys, toggle switches, moving platforms, and cleverly concealed passages. The pace is brisk: every jump, barricade, and enemy encounter requires precision timing and quick reflexes, rewarding those who take the time to learn each stage’s unique layout.

(HEY YOU!! We hope you enjoy! We try not to run ads. So basically, this is a very expensive hobby running this site. Please consider joining us for updates, forums, and more. Network w/ us to make some cash or friends while retro gaming, and you can win some free retro games for posting. Okay, carry on 👍)

One of the strongest aspects of the gameplay is its seamless integration of puzzles and platforming. Rather than shoehorning one into the other, Showdown In Orbit intersperses combat segments with brain-teasing obstacles—flip a switch to lower a barrier, then leap across a chasm on a trembling platform while dodging laser-turret fire. Collectibles and occasional power-ups add another layer of depth, encouraging exploration even in later playthroughs when familiarity might tempt you to race straight to the exit.

The difficulty curve is well calibrated for both series veterans and newcomers. Early levels ease players into the gravity-free environment of the space station, teaching mechanics like magnetic boots and short-range jet boosts. By mid-game, you’ll face multi-stage gauntlets where timing and pattern recognition become critical. Episode Three feels like a cohesive finale—each of its ten levels feels distinct, yet they all tie back to core design principles that make Space Chase’s trademark mix of action and adventure so compelling.

Graphics

Although Space Chase III uses a modest 16-color palette, the visuals are surprisingly vibrant and evocative. The orbiting fortress backdrop is rendered in dark, steely tones punctuated by flickering control panels and star-dotted windows, creating a palpable sense of isolation in deep space. Character sprites are crisply defined, with Major Storm’s bright uniform standing out clearly against enemy soldiers, drones, and the occasional mechanical hazard.

The smooth side-scrolling engine keeps the action fluid even when multiple moving platforms and background layers are in play. Animations—while simple by modern standards—are snappy and responsive: Jason’s walk cycle, jump arcs, and weapon recoils all feel weighty and satisfying. Environmental details like conveyor belts, retractable floors, and spinning turrets all move without stutter, preserving immersion and preventing frustration when split-second timing is required.

Fans of retro platformers will appreciate the nods to classic shareware era aesthetics. Textures remain crisp rather than pixel-blurry, and the color choices maximize contrast to highlight interactable objects. Whether you’re ducking under laser beams in a narrow corridor or hopping across floating debris in the station’s reactor bay, the graphics consistently support gameplay clarity without sacrificing atmosphere.

Story

Showdown In Orbit picks up directly after the climactic events of Fortress of Doom. Having routed Evil Guys Inc. on land, Major Jason Storm must now prevent the organization’s leaders from launching an orbital bombardment that could doom Earth’s population. Though the narrative is primarily conveyed through brief mission intros and text screens, it retains a pulpy, high-stakes charm that propels you through each level with purpose.

Each of the ten stages in Episode Three opens with a short briefing that teases new challenges—whether disabling a communications array, retrieving vital data, or confronting armed commanders. These story snippets provide just enough context to keep players invested without derailing the pace. The result is a lean, action-focused plot that feels true to the shareware ethos: no lengthy cutscenes, just clear objectives and escalating peril.

By the time you reach the final sector—a sprawling command module rife with traps and elite guards—the narrative tension is at its peak. You know what’s at stake, you’ve seen the enemy’s evolving tactics, and you’re prepared for a showdown that delivers on its promise. It’s a straightforward hero’s journey, but it’s executed with polish and momentum that many larger titles struggle to maintain.

Overall Experience

Space Chase III: Showdown In Orbit is a triumphant capstone to the shareware trilogy. It offers a tightly focused blend of platforming precision, environmental puzzles, and arcade-style combat—all wrapped in a tidy ten-level package that won’t overstay its welcome. For players who appreciate a challenging, no-nonsense approach to side-scrolling action, this episode delivers consistent thrills from start to finish.

The game’s strengths lie in its elegant design choices: clear goals, intuitive but deep mechanics, and a visual style that maximizes a limited palette for maximum impact. While modern gamers may miss high-resolution textures or voice acting, those elements would only dilute the crisp, retro appeal that Space Chase aficionados have come to love. Instead, Showdown In Orbit embraces its roots and refines them.

Whether you’re revisiting the classic shareware era or discovering Space Chase for the first time, this episode strikes an impressive balance of nostalgia and playability. It’s quick to learn but hard to master, with hidden paths and speed-run potential that extend its replay value. For anyone seeking an action-packed platformer with a sci-fi edge, Space Chase III: Showdown In Orbit is a mission you won’t want to skip.

Retro Replay Score

null/10