Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Chō Aniki: Seinaru Protein Densetsu retains the classic side-scrolling shoot-’em-up structure that long-time fans of the series will instantly recognize. Rather than piloting a spaceship, however, you directly control the holy Protein itself, weaving through gauntlets of bizarre adversaries and projectile barrages. Adon and Samsom, the franchise’s iconic bodybuilders, hover at your flanks as “options,” lending their firepower and special abilities to each onslaught.

One of the game’s most engaging mechanics is the formation-switching system. At any time, you can toggle between tight, wide, or diagonal firing patterns, adjusting your spread to suit narrow corridors or boss encounters. This fluid control over your firing formation is backed up by an array of secret moves—an evolution of what you might remember from Ai Cho Aniki—unlocked by precisely timed button combos and power-up collections.

Level design is a delightful blend of the surreal and the challenging. Each stage introduces a fresh set of enemies—ranging from anthropomorphic barbells to laser-shooting cherubs—punctuated by towering, shape-shifting bosses that demand pattern memorization and quick reflexes. The difficulty curve can spike suddenly, rewarding players who master the formation switches and secret attacks with high scores and extra lives.

While the core gameplay loop remains faithful to the soul of traditional shooters, Seinaru Protein Densetsu spices things up with occasional branching paths, hidden rooms filled with bonus proteins, and mini-challenges that test your precision. These features encourage multiple playthroughs, as discovering every secret attack and level shortcut can mean the difference between a sprint to the credits or a full completion run.

Graphics

Marking the series’ debut on the PlayStation 2, Chō Aniki embraces polygonal graphics in place of its former sprite-based look. The shift to 3D models for Adon, Samsom, and their opponents brings a fresh visual identity, complete with smooth character animations and dynamic camera angles during boss introductions. The polygon counts are modest by PS2 standards, but the exaggerated proportions and fluid movement capture the game’s over-the-top aesthetic perfectly.

Backgrounds range from pastel-soaked gymnasiums to neon-lit protein labs, each layer scrolling at different speeds to create a palpable sense of depth. Particle effects for protein power-ups and laser blasts are crisp and responsive, though occasional texture pop-ins can occur when the action intensifies. Still, the color palette is bold and consistent, ensuring every enemy stands out against the backdrop.

Boss designs deserve special mention: hulking protein-infused warriors and bizarre organic constructs burst into view with flashy cinematic cut-ins. While the frame rate dips slightly during the most chaotic set-pieces, the chaos only adds to the spectacle. Subtle lighting effects accentuate the muscular contours of both heroes and villains, underscoring the game’s tongue-in-cheek bodybuilding theme.

On the downside, some stage hazards—like disappearing floors and environmental traps—use low-resolution textures that can blend with the scenery, making them hard to spot. Yet, these minor quirks rarely detract from the overall visual feast. For a series built on parody and flamboyance, the transition to 3D mostly enhances the creature designs and set-piece battles that define the experience.

Story

The narrative in Chō Aniki: Seinaru Protein Densetsu is delightfully minimalistic, fitting its shoot-’em-up roots. Adon and Samsom have unearthed the fabled holy Protein—a substance said to grant unrivaled bodybuilding prowess. Before they can harness its full potential, they must clear a gauntlet of mechanized weights, bio-engineered flexing machines, and an eclectic cast of adversaries determined to claim the Protein for themselves.

Story beats unfold through brief comic cut-scenes, narrated by an over-dramatic announcer who spouts muscle-bound motivational slogans. These interludes steer you from one stage to the next, providing just enough context to justify the next boss battle without bogging down the pace. Fans of the franchise will appreciate the self-aware humor, while newcomers can enjoy the lighthearted setup without needing prior knowledge.

Character interactions are scant but memorable. Adon and Samsom each have signature poses and quips when powering up or taking damage, lending personality to what could otherwise be a purely mechanical shoot-’em-up. The Protein itself is treated as both your avatar and a mystical artifact, leading to playful fourth-wall breaks when enemies comment on your shapeshifting maneuvers.

While the story doesn’t aim for epic depth, it strikes the perfect tone for a series defined by parody and flamboyant absurdity. If you’re seeking a narrative that complements the action without overshadowing it, Chō Aniki: Seinaru Protein Densetsu delivers a satisfying, muscle-toned plot in bite-sized chunks.

Overall Experience

Chō Aniki: Seinaru Protein Densetsu offers a refreshingly off-beat shoot-’em-up experience on the PlayStation 2, marrying classic side-scrolling action with quirky humor and bold visual flourishes. The formation-switching mechanic and hidden secret moves inject strategic depth into the high-octane combat, challenging both newcomers and genre veterans alike.

Performance is largely stable, punctuated by brief dips in frame rate during the most explosive set pieces—a small price to pay for the spectacle of protein-powered boss fights. The quirky enemy roster, pun-heavy cut-scenes, and ever-present gym metaphors keep the tone light, ensuring the game never takes itself too seriously even as the action intensifies.

Replay value is significant: hidden pathways, bonus proteins, and multiple difficulty settings invite repeated runs. Collecting all secret attacks and mastering every boss pattern transforms the experience from a fun diversion into an addictive challenge. The persistence of Adon and Samsom as floating options also adds an unmistakable series identity, giving long-time fans something familiar to latch onto.

Ultimately, Seinaru Protein Densetsu is a niche gem for shoot-’em-up enthusiasts and collectors of eccentric gaming history. Its blend of old-school mechanics, comedic flair, and PS2-era polygonal charm makes it a standout title for anyone looking to flex their reflexes—and perhaps their sense of humor—against a world gone mad for muscle.

Retro Replay Score

null/10