Raiden Trad [SNES] Review and Longplay [1992]

Hello Retro Gaming fans, Ryan Mcquinn here!

Retro Review: Raiden Trad for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES)

Introduction

In the early 90s, the arcade-to-home console transition was in full swing, and among the myriad of titles making the leap was “Raiden Trad,” an iconic vertical-scrolling shooter game. Originally developed by Seibu Kaihatsu, this game was ported to the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) by Micronics, presenting a home experience that could bring the arcade’s electrifying atmosphere right into the living room.

Developer and History

Seibu Kaihatsu, the original developer of Raiden, was a somewhat obscure but respected name in the arcade scene. They struck gold with the release of Raiden in 1990, which quickly became a standard-bearer for the shoot ’em up (or shmup) genre. The SNES port by Micronics, while not as well-known as Seibu Kaihatsu, played a significant role in bringing Raiden Trad to a broader audience.

The Music and Graphics

The SNES port of Raiden Trad is a nostalgia trip not only in gameplay but also through its audiovisual presentation. The game’s soundtrack, often lauded for its driving beats and catchy melodies, complements the high-octane gameplay beautifully. Tracks like “Gallantry” and “Lightning War” have a way of sticking in your mind long after you’ve powered down the console. The graphics, while a step down from the arcade version due to the SNES’s hardware limitations, still manage to capture the essence of the game with vibrant colors and detailed sprites. The visual effects of explosions and weapon fire are particularly satisfying, making each enemy takedown feel impactful.

Relevant link for the game’s soundtrack:

• Raiden Trad SNES Soundtrack

Gameplay Experience

The gameplay of Raiden Trad is the heart of its success. Fast, frenetic, and unforgiving, the game tasks players with piloting the Raiden Supersonic Attack Fighter through hordes of enemy aircraft and installations. Power-ups are the name of the game, with red granting a powerful Vulcan cannon and blue bestowing a laser weapon that pierces through foes. The SNES controller layout provides a comfortable and responsive interface for the non-stop action Raiden Trad demands.

The Storyline

Amidst the chaos of gameplay, there’s a story of Earth’s defense. In 2090, the Earth has come under attack from the Cranassian Empire, and it’s up to the Raiden Supersonic Attack Fighter to fend off the invasion and save humanity. While the narrative isn’t the main draw of the game, it provides just enough context to give your battles purpose.

Community and Critical Reception

Upon its release, Raiden Trad garnered a warm reception from the shoot ’em up community. It wasn’t without its criticisms, such as the slower framerate compared to its arcade counterpart, but the SNES version held a charm that won over many players. Forums and gaming communities, decades later, still reminisce about the title, often noting its challenging gameplay and memorable music.

Relevant community link:

• SNES Raiden Trad Discussion on Reddit

Facts About the Game

1. The title “Raiden Trad” isn’t just a stylistic choice; “Trad” is short for “tradition,” signaling the game’s adherence to the classic arcade format.
2. Raiden Trad on the SNES was one of the few games that offered a cooperative two-player mode, a feature that significantly boosted its replay value.
3. The SNES version of Raiden Trad includes exclusive levels and bosses that were not present in the original arcade release.
4. Raiden Trad was also one of the first SHUMPs to incorporate the mechanic of two distinct weapon systems, allowing players to switch strategies on the fly.

Replay Value

One of the strongest aspects of Raiden Trad is its replay value. The game is designed with a high difficulty curve, encouraging players to hone their skills through repeated playthroughs. Furthermore, the inclusion of different difficulty settings and the thrill of trying to beat your high score adds to the game’s longevity.

Personal Anecdote

Interestingly, my first encounter with Raiden was not on the SNES but with the Sega Genesis version at a cousin’s house in the 90s. That experience was my gateway into the SHUMP genre, and it’s fascinating to see how both versions stand the test of time, each with its unique quirks and features.

Conclusion and Quotation

Raiden Trad for the SNES encapsulates the classic arcade experience in a home console format. Its blend of robust gameplay, striking graphics, and compelling soundtrack make it a standout title in the SNES library and a must-play for fans of the genre.

To quote a Retro Replay member, Johnathan “Pixel” Smith,”

Raiden Trad is more than a game; it’s a time capsule of the arcade era, beautifully wrapped in a 16-bit package. Every level is a new challenge, every enemy a chance to perfect your strategy. Even today, firing up Raiden on the SNES, you can’t help but be transported back to the days of quarter slots and leaderboard initials. It’s pure, undiluted nostalgia.“

Raiden Trad may not be the definitive version of the Raiden series, but it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the SHUMP genre and the legacy of its arcade roots. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran revisiting an old favorite or a newcomer curious about the heights of early ’90s gaming, Raiden Trad on the SNES is well worth your time.