Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Sega Ages 2500: Vol.25 – Gunstar Heroes: Treasure Box brings together three of Treasure’s most celebrated titles—Gunstar Heroes, Dynamite Headdy, and Alien Soldier—on one PS2 disc. Each game retains its lightning-fast action and tight controls, reflecting the precision that made Treasure a household name in the 16-bit era. Whether you’re blasting through Gunstar Heroes’ multi-directional shooting or juggling Headdy’s head-swapping mechanics, the core gameplay feels every bit as responsive as it did on Genesis hardware.

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The compilation offers multiple display and control options to let players fine-tune their experience. You can switch between Japanese and overseas versions with a few button presses, giving aficionados a chance to compare subtle balancing differences and regional changes. Texture filtering and scanline effects help modernize the visuals or recreate the nostalgic CRT glow, all without affecting frame rates or input latency.

Beyond the main attractions, Sega Ages 2500 Vol.25 includes a simple yet effective menu system that lets you jump between titles seamlessly. Saving states are supported, sparing you from frustrating restarts in Alien Soldier’s punishing boss gauntlets. Replay value is high: you’ll find yourself returning for faster speedruns in Dynamite Headdy or tackling secret routes in Gunstar Heroes that you missed decades ago.

Graphics

Visually, this collection honors the original pixel art while offering options for a smoother presentation on modern screens. Texture filtering softens jagged edges without washing out the vibrant color palettes that defined each game. Alternately, the optional scanline overlay mimics the look of a classic CRT, preserving the authenticity of Sega Genesis and Mega Drive displays.

Each title’s sprite work remains remarkably intact: Gunstar Heroes dazzles with its fluid animations during multi-enemy encounters, while Dynamite Headdy’s whimsical backgrounds and character designs pop with cartoonish flair. Alien Soldier, often noted for its grandiose boss battles, maintains its imposing scale and detail even when displayed in fullscreen mode. The emulation engine handles rapid scrolling and on-screen chaos without noticeable slowdown.

The Treasure Box edition also includes subtle yet welcome presentation touches—customizable aspect ratios, border options, and audio settings ensure that enthusiasts can tailor the output to suit their setup. PS2 hardware, though dated, proves more than capable of faithfully reproducing the 16-bit visuals, making this compilation a solid showcase of retro graphics done right.

Story

Rather than a singular narrative thread, this compilation offers three distinct storylines, each with its own brand of charm. In Gunstar Heroes, you’re thrust into an over-the-top adventure to thwart the nefarious Gold and Red Empire, led by the diabolical Red Eye. The plot is refreshingly lighthearted and provides a perfect backdrop for the game’s breakneck pacing.

Dynamite Headdy takes a more whimsical approach: you play as a sentient puppet on a quest to rescue your kingdom from the evil Dark Demon. The design leans heavily into slapstick humor and inventive stage themes, from toy factories to villain-filled fantasy realms. Despite its colorful veneer, the game occasionally ramps up in difficulty, creating memorable moments of both laughter and challenge.

Alien Soldier offers the darkest narrative of the trio, casting you as a bio-engineered soldier fighting a wide array of mutants and extraterrestrial threats. The story is minimal but effective, with each boss encounter feeling like the climax to a dramatic showdown. This game’s emphasis on boss rush battles makes its storyline feel like a mounting series of climaxes, perfect for those who relish high-stakes encounters.

Overall Experience

Sega Ages 2500 Vol.25 – Gunstar Heroes: Treasure Box is a love letter to Treasure’s 16-bit masterpieces. The compilation’s strength lies not just in its high-quality emulation but in the thoughtful extras—save states, display filters, and version swaps—that serve both purists and newcomers. It’s a comprehensive package that respects the source material while enhancing accessibility.

For collectors, the physical Treasure Box edition often includes an art booklet and themed packaging, adding tangible value beyond the games themselves. Even without fancy extras, the content on disc justifies the purchase: three full-length titles, robust options menus, and the rare ability to compare regional variations at will. It’s a must-have for anyone serious about retro gaming on PS2.

While the PS2 era may be long past, Sega Ages 2500 Vol.25 stands as proof that classic action games endure when given careful handling. Whether you’re reliving childhood memories or discovering these titles for the first time, this compilation delivers endless thrills, unforgettable moments, and a polished presentation that keeps Treasure’s legacy alive.

Retro Replay Score

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