DESCRIPTION

Pulstar is a side-scrolling shooter crafted in the mold of Irem's R-Type and Konami's Gradius. Players will rocket into space to battle an onslaught of alien vessels and creatures over the course of eight chaotic stages. Pulstar's distinguishing feature is a horizontal weapon gauge at the bottom of the screen. The right side indicates when you can fire charged shots after holding down a button, while the left side represents your cannon's overall power, which is increased by rapidly tapping a button. Multiple power-ups enhance your ship's capabilities, allowing you to fire missiles, launch smart bombs, add shields, increase speed, and more. The 330-meg cartridge boasts multiple scrolling backgrounds, SGI-rendered objects, and animated bosses that nearly fill the screen. Players will battle snake-like creatures, travel inside meteors, and witness fiery explosions while leading the fight against an intergalactic threat. ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide