Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

Space Ace on the SNES reimagines the classic Laserdisc adventure as an action-platformer, giving players full control over Dexter’s every leap and dodge. Rather than relying on quick-time events, the game challenges you to master precise timing and platforming skills as you navigate hazardous terrain filled with chasms and alien attacks. Each segment demands memorization and split-second reactions, fostering a trial-and-error rhythm that rewards persistence.

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An innovative twist comes in the form of the “energize” symbol: when it appears, a well-timed button press transforms Dexter into his powerful alter ego. In this enhanced state, you can fire shots at oncoming foes, adding a brief but satisfying shooter segment to the otherwise pure platforming action. These transformations break up the pacing nicely and offer a tangible sense of progression as you wrestle with tougher enemies.

After surviving the surface levels, gameplay shifts to a top-down spaceship section. Here, Dexter must pilot his ship through a maze-like environment, blasting obstacles with a laser and avoiding collisions. The contrast between side-scrolling platforming and overhead navigation adds variety, though the labyrinth design can feel repetitive without a map. Success often hinges on learning each corridor by heart.

Trial-and-error is baked into Space Ace’s design. Death animations are frequent—often comically over-the-top—to maintain the original’s dramatic flair. While this repetition can frustrate newcomers, dedicated players will appreciate the predictable layout of each sequence, enabling them to anticipate hazards on subsequent runs. Patience and perseverance turn what feels like punishment into a rewarding test of skill.

Graphics

Given the limitations of the SNES, Space Ace’s pixel art does a respectable job of capturing the campy spirit of the Laserdisc original. Dexter’s sprite animations are surprisingly fluid, especially during his “energize” transformations and elaborate death sequences. The vibrant color palette helps each level feel distinct, from alien nests to cavernous interiors.

Background details are more than mere decoration, often hinting at upcoming dangers—a pitfall here, an alien turret there. The designers cleverly use parallax scrolling to create depth, giving the platforming stages a richer sense of space. However, some areas can become visually busy, making it tricky to spot smaller hazards until it’s too late.

The top-down spaceship segments strip back the aesthetics to focus on functionality. Walls and obstacles are clearly defined, but the color scheme is more muted compared to the platforming levels. This choice aids navigation, ensuring you can spot paths and lasers at a glance, though the overall look feels less inspired.

Short but memorable death animations are where the game truly shines visually. Dexter’s exaggerated reactions—being flattened, sliced, or petrified—are rendered with a level of detail that brings humor to repeated failures. These brief sequences uphold the original’s cinematic flair and soften the sting of restarting a tough section.

Story

Space Ace’s narrative is delightfully simple: Borf, the megalomaniacal villain, kidnaps Kimberly and threatens to revert humanity into infants with his “Infanto Ray.” This tongue-in-cheek premise provides ample motivation without bogging down the pacing. From your first jump to the final showdown, the stakes are clear—rescue Kimberly and save the world.

The SNES adaptation condenses the Laserdisc cutscenes into text and sprite-based storytelling, but the game retains its playful spirit. Brief dialogue boxes and on-screen prompts advance the plot between levels, keeping momentum high. While you won’t see long animated sequences here, the core narrative beats are all present.

Characters are archetypal—Dexter the hero, Kimberly the damsel, Borf the mustache-twirling villain—but they fit perfectly into the Saturday morning cartoon aesthetic. There’s a nostalgic charm in simply charging forward with your blaster or your legs, knowing that each new screen brings you closer to Kimberly’s rescue.

Although the story never takes a serious turn, its lighthearted tone is a strength. It doesn’t overstay its welcome, and the straightforward goal keeps players engaged. The occasional humorous death animation reinforces the game’s refusal to take itself too seriously, making the adventure fun even when it feels punishing.

Overall Experience

Space Ace on the SNES is a unique hybrid of platformer and shooter that pays homage to the Laserdisc original while forging its own identity. Its demanding trial-and-error gameplay may not appeal to casual players looking for a laid-back experience, but those who relish pattern memorization and precise controls will find plenty to enjoy.

The graphical presentation, highlighted by dynamic sprite work and comical death animations, keeps the action engaging even on repeat playthroughs. While the top-down spaceship segments are less visually striking, they provide a necessary change of pace that enriches the overall package.

Story-wise, the game excels at delivering a breezy, archetypal hero’s quest. It never bogs players down with exposition, allowing the focus to remain firmly on gameplay. The threat of the Infanto Ray and the kidnapping of Kimberly provide just enough narrative thrust to motivate each daring jump and energy blast.

Ultimately, Space Ace is a worthwhile addition to any SNES collection for fans of retro platformers. Its combination of challenging level design, memorable visuals, and lighthearted storytelling offers a distinctive experience. Prepare for repeated deaths, but also for the satisfaction that comes from mastering each sequence and ultimately rescuing Kimberly from Borf’s clutches.

Retro Replay Score

5.7/10