Einhänder [PSX] 1998 Review and Longplay

Publisher: Square Co., Ltd.
Platform: PlayStation
Release Date: November 20, 1997 (Japan); May 5, 1998 (North America)
Genre: Shoot ’em up

Introduction

Einhänder, a side-scrolling shoot ’em up (shmup) released by Square during the golden era of the PlayStation, is a game that remains a cult classic among retro gaming enthusiasts. In an era dominated by RPGs and 3D platformers, Einhänder stood out as a unique offering with its cyberpunk aesthetic, a gripping soundtrack, and engaging gameplay mechanics.

Story and Setting

Set in a dystopian future where Earth and the Moon are at war, Einhänder immerses players in the role of a pilot from the Moon who is tasked with gathering intelligence and wreaking havoc upon Earth’s forces. The name “Einhän8der” is derived from a German word meaning “one-hander,” referring to the fighter spacecraft that the player controls, which can hold only one weapon at a time from a defeated enemy.

The narrative is minimalistic, but the atmospheric setting rife with industrial environments, cityscapes, and space stations creates a compelling backdrop for the action. The occasional cutscenes and radio chatter add layers to the story without distracting from the gameplay.

Gameplay

Einhänder’s gameplay is a fresh take on the classic shmup formula. The game is known for its weapon-grabbing mechanic, where players can snatch weapons from enemies and choose how to position them on their ship: either facing forward or backward. This mechanic adds a layer of strategy to the typical shoot-and-dodge gameplay, as players must decide on the fly which weapon is best suited for the current situation.

The game offers three different ships to choose from, each with varying speed, durability, and weapon capacity. This choice, combined with the numerous weapon types—ranging from machine guns to lasers and grenade launchers—ensures that each playthrough can be a different experience.

One of the most praised aspects of Einhänder is its difficulty. It is challenging without being unfair, rewarding players for learning enemy patterns and using their arsenal effectively. The game also features a scoring system that incentivizes risky play, such as close encounters with enemies, for those aiming for high scores.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, Einhänder was a visual masterpiece. It cleverly utilized the PlayStation’s 3D capabilities to render detailed sprites and environments with dynamic lighting effects, creating a cinematic feel to the shoot ’em up experience. The game’s camera also adds to the drama by shifting angles at key moments, enhancing the visual spectacle.

The soundtrack, composed by Kenichiro Fukui, is a standout feature. It ranges from haunting melodies to high-energy electronic beats that perfectly match the on-screen action. The sound effects are equally impressive, with each weapon and explosion providing satisfying auditory feedback.

Replayability

Einhänder offers multiple difficulty levels, secret bonuses, and alternate routes that can be discovered, providing significant replay value. The game encourages players to beat their high scores and perfect their runs, tapping into the “just one more try” sentiment that defines many arcade classics.

Conclusion

Einhänder is a shining example of Square’s ability to step outside its comfort zone and still deliver a top-tier gaming experience. The game’s combination of innovative gameplay, stunning visuals, and an electrifying soundtrack create an experience that has stood the test of time. While modern shooters may offer more complexity and polish, Einhänder’s unique charm and challenge make it a must-play for any retro gaming aficionado or shmup enthusiast.

Einhänder is not just a game; it’s a piece of gaming history that showcases the creativity and risks developers were willing to take during the 90s. It’s a testament to the era where gameplay and artistic vision were seamlessly blended to create experiences that are still celebrated decades later.

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