Shatterhand (NES)

Published by
Developed by
100 point score based on reviews from various critics.
5 point score based on user ratings.
Written by  :  Apogee IV (2336)
Written on  :  Dec 05, 2005
Rating  :  3.83 Stars3.83 Stars3.83 Stars3.83 Stars3.83 Stars

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Forgotten Classic

The Good

For some reason, Shatterhand is barely remembered today, which is a pity since it really is an excellent side-scrolling action game.

What I really like about Shatterhand is the certain kind of flow that the game has. There's something about it that drives you forward; it makes you want to progress and beat the crap out of everything that stands in your way. One of the contributing factors is without doubt the music. Seriously one of the best NES soundtracks I have ever heard. The tunes are fast paced, but totally memorable and catchy, and they the game perfectly.

The level design also plays a large role into making Shatterhand such as satisfying game to play. There's always a sense of reward when you get past obstacles and sub-bosses. Also, it never gets stale or predictable. There's plenty of surprises in the game that will keep you focused. While the game is sort of simple it nonetheless has some cool features, such as the satellite droids, which makes it stand a part from other games in the genre.

I also really like the fact that once you complete the first stage you can select which stages you want to play.

The Bad

One the things that bugs me a bit about Shatterhand is the fact that you sometimes can't get a sense of how far into a level you have progressed.

Perhaps it is also a bit short, but the skill level is fairly high, so it's not like you can just waltz through the game.

The Bottom Line

While not groundbreaking or particularly innovating, Shatterhand is a superb, addictive and extremely well made game. Definitely a cult game for those in the know.