Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Goemon: Shin Sedai Shūmei! sticks closely to the series’ 2D platforming roots while introducing a handful of modern twists to keep veteran players on their toes. You’ll leap, duck, and hack your way through intricately designed levels, alternating between Goemon and his squad mates—each armed with unique weapons and abilities. Whether you’re flinging Goemon’s signature pipe or unleashing Yae’s shuriken volley, switching characters on the fly opens up fresh strategies for tackling enemy formations and environmental puzzles.

One of the more notable design changes is the removal of the non-linear world map in favor of a streamlined mission structure. Instead of wandering between stages, you select specific missions from a futuristic cityscape menu, then dive straight into the action. Power-up shops and upgrade stations have been folded into the levels themselves, encouraging exploration off the beaten path: hidden alcoves often conceal weapon upgrades or health boosts, rewarding players who master the platforming mechanics.

The highlight of the gameplay, however, lies in the Goemon Impact sequences. These dramatic mecha-shooter interludes break up the standard side-scrolling action, putting you in control of a giant robot armed with rapid-fire cannons and homing missiles. While the transition from detailed sprite work to polygonal boss arenas can feel jarring at first, these segments inject welcome variety and a real sense of scale—reminding you that Goemon’s world is as wild and unpredictable as ever.

Graphics

Visually, Shin Sedai Shūmei! presents an eye-catching blend of hand-drawn sprites and early-generation 3D models. Character animations retain the series’ signature fluidity, with expressive poses and exaggerated reactions that convey personality even without extensive dialogue. Levels are awash with neon accents and metallic surfaces, evoking a sleek, cyberpunk-tinged Tokyo that stands in stark contrast to Goemon’s traditional Edo-period stomping grounds.

The integration of polygonal bosses and background elements adds depth without overwhelming the core 2D action. Giant robotic foes loom in the distance, their wires and glowing cores rendered in simple yet effective 3D. During cutscenes, these models are often swapped out for pre-rendered cinematics or a beautifully cel-animated intro, both of which showcase a level of polish that hints at the developers’ ambition to modernize the franchise.

While load times between stages can occasionally be noticeable, they’re never long enough to break immersion. The color palette is vibrant without feeling garish, and special effects—like electric sparks, missile trails, and impact flares—pop against darker industrial backdrops. Overall, the game strikes a solid balance, combining retro charm with enough next-gen flair to feel fresh.

Story

Shin Sedai Shūmei! casts Goemon in a younger, more disciplined light, trading some of his classic goofiness for earnest determination. The narrative kicks off with a wave of high-tech crime sweeping through Neo-Edo, prompting Goemon to assemble his elite squad: familiar faces like Ebisumaru, Yae, and Sasuke, each reimagined as a sleek, futuristic operative. The stakes feel higher this time around, as you’re not just chasing petty thieves but dismantling a city-wide syndicate bent on technological domination.

Storytelling unfolds through a mix of in-game dialogue, brief sprite-based exchanges, and fully animated cutscenes. Though the plot never takes itself too seriously, it strikes a fine balance between lighthearted banter and genuine suspense. Villains tend to be over-the-top caricatures—complete with maniacal laughter and dramatic monologues—but they fit right in with Goemon’s colorful world, providing memorable set-piece battles and mission objectives.

Character development is subtle but effective. Each team member has a moment to shine, whether it’s Yae infiltrating a corporate headquarters or Sasuke defusing a bomb under pressure. As missions progress, you get flashes of camaraderie that capture the series’ spirit: Goemon’s reluctant heroism, Ebisumaru’s comic relief, and the unspoken bonds that hold the crew together. It’s a simple storyline, but it keeps you invested from start to finish.

Overall Experience

Goemon: Shin Sedai Shūmei! successfully reinvigorates a beloved franchise by marrying classic 2D platforming with modern visual flourishes and level design. Veterans will appreciate the nods to series staples—from Goemon’s trusty pipe to hidden mini-games—while newcomers can jump right in thanks to clear objectives and intuitive controls. The streamlined mission structure keeps the pace brisk, avoiding the padding that hampered earlier entries.

The only real drawbacks are occasional load-time hiccups and the slight jolt when moving between sprite-driven action and polygonal boss fights. Neither issue is game-breaking, but they serve as reminders that this title straddles two eras of development. That said, the variety—platforming, puzzle exploration, mecha shooting—ensures you’re rarely doing the same thing twice.

In the end, Shin Sedai Shūmei! stands as a worthy evolution of the Ganbare Goemon legacy. It offers tight, responsive controls, imaginative level design, and a fresh aesthetic that breathes new life into Goemon’s world. If you’re in the market for a platformer that balances challenge with charm, this futuristic spin on a classic series is well worth your time.

Retro Replay Score

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