Thexder is a classic game of arcade style action that was created by Game Arts Company, Limited. It was released in the late eighties by Sierra On-Line, a well known publisher of multiple video game genres. This license by Sierra was crucial in gaining Thexder any following at all beyond Japan, where it sold very well. With Sierra’s intervention, Thexder was converted to many formats and became reasonably popular in the United States and European markets. Still, no market favored Thexder like the Japanese. Thexder features classical Japanese themes of Manga warriors and anime characters.
It is a shooting platform game, which also inspired a sequel entitled Fire Hawk: Thexder II.
In Thexder, the user plays a Transformer-style battle robot that can turn into a jet fighter when necessary. In later remakes, the robot also had tank capabilities. The robot features a high-powered laser style of weapon, which auto aims at the oncoming enemies. Despite the “ease” of targeting, each shot uses up a specific amount of energy. This energy also automatically recharges, but its recharge is often slower than the user’s trigger finger. If the user runs out of energy, he will have to wait to fire a shot, putting him in a potentially dangerous situation. The energy is also consumed by using the robot’s shield to defend you from enemy fire.
There
are numerous enemies that the battle but will have to destroy. They are well-animated, tough, and numerous. They traverse many levels, which are also mostly well-done. The game features a futuristic feel, but some of the environments are more reminiscent of role-playing games’ caverns. Others are shiny, metallic and seem to fit more fluidly with the robotic theme of the game. Every few levels, the look of the environment changes, help to keep the gamer more interested.
The game play itself is mercifully fluid. Regardless of the background detail or the number of enemies on the screen, the action does not slow down. There are two different musical scores in the background, which is pretty much on pace for platform shooters of the time. The sound effects themselves are also good and not annoying.
Overall, Thexder is a very decent and playable shooter. It is fast-paced, challenging and filled with non-stop action. The nice Japanese anime styles of robot are attractive and the enemies are also very well rendered. Thexder is really satisfying play. I highly recommend it to everyone.
