16-Bit Gems #27 – Sunset Riders

Posted by Roo-CotGW on Tuesday, October 11, 2011 · 26 Comments

This Konami arcade classic was once ported to both the Super Nintendo and Genesis. But how well did they stack up to the original? And which one took quite a departure from its initial version? Roo examines each in this rootin’-tootin’ episode.

BlackagarBoltagon

Pretty Good episode but I felt like something was missing. Maybe it was the choice of the game. Good game but not much depth to review. Back to SNES RPG’s right? or Maybe Killer Instinct?

http://thepunkeffect.com Pat

A review of Killer Instinct would have the depth of a puddle.

BlackagarBoltagon

Figured a fighting game would be a change of pace, granted SF2 or MK would probably be the 16-bit fighting games of choice, KI is my pick. Unless you’re advocating Ballz? But seriously, KI had the continuous health bar, the BS fatalities, combo breakers, a groan inducing stereotypical cast, combos for days, a ridiculous story, a black cartridge, hilarious 90′s flair for marketing and is ripe for ridicule. At the same time I played countless hours and loved the semi creative branching combo system and don’t know too many people who have a SNES who don’t recall it fondly for what it was, A combofest. Partly Midway’s attempt at an MK clone, I think it influenced the upping of the speed and combo capabilities in the MK series as well. But yeah I agree not really a Gem. Was typing fast to get the first post and blurted out the first thing that popped in my head. Think it could make a good episode though if you use it to typify the 90′s or at least as an example of the times. I love the commercial with all the kids and how its like they’re swearing. EDGY!!!

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001582780112 Roo Cotgw

Well, not every game can be as deep as Lufia 2. Sometimes an action game is just an action game, even if Sunset Riders if one of the best out there.

But look for something a little more… unorthodox for the Halloween episode.

spookydonkey03

i wont look for it. i’ll wait for it though ‘;,,;’
BlackagarBoltagon

Don’t get me wrong I love the game, it’s just in comparison to the other games you’ve reviewed so well, it didn’t have much for you to talk about and feels like the weakest episode, in my opinion. Def looking forward to Halloween episode. Biig Fan
camseyeview

well Roo you should make an entire review series just for RPGs since there are more than just the great 16-bit RPG library ( cant stand 7th saga though i dont see the appeal of that game)

Anonymous

They had this arcade cabinet at the laundromat near my apt. Whenever I had the spare quarters, I’d pop a few in. I got pretty far once, almost all the way to the final boss. Then, they took the game out. I was bummed.
http://thepunkeffect.com Pat

Great episode. Although after playing and loving the arcade game, you couldn’t pay me to play the Genesis version. OK you could pay me, but you get my point.
http://www.facebook.com/people/Austin-Kelly-Mackert/100000790359124 Austin Kelly Mackert

I was unaware each home version was so different from one-another. It’s not such a bad idea to own both in that case, I suppose!
http://www.facebook.com/billy.w.hudson Billy Hudson

you had me at this review when you said your favorite arcade beat ‘em up was tmnt
Anonymous

You love Sunset Riders and hate the term “shmup”, therefore you’re OK in my book. However, I do like to play on Easy. I’d rather enjoy myself than get frustrated with a game. But since I had the SNES version as a kid, I didn’t realize the Genesis version was so different. Might have to try it out.

Bob

I’d say you can enjoy yourself while a game is kicking your ass. That’s why I like Battletoads after all.

Homer Ruglia Beoulve

Great review Roo, our arcades here are not quite as similar as you have there in the US but I first shed light on that game back then when I’m still piling up 1 peso to play a game. I love Sunset Riders, it pumps me up and felt that I’m really a cowboy.
Anonymous

I never played this game but I’ll give either of these games a try when I can.
Good video as always, Roo!
Wavescape

i was a huge sega fan back in the days! but i have to say that the SNES is MUUUUUUCH better than the genesis version. i played the arcade version a lot when i was like 13 years old on vacation in holland.
http://www.facebook.com/fracassi Anthony Fracassi

I always liked the Cabal type shooters. GI Joe (Konami) is one of my all time favorite games.
Anonymous

Hey cool, looks like you got some retro news video from my current city of residence; Fargo, ND. And 5 months before I was born as well.

High five!
Chris

I’ve only played the SNES version but it’s super fun…I’ll have to start looking for the Genesis version now, lol…thanks Roo!
spookydonkey03

‘nother great review partner! gotta vote for snes as the superior port based on full character roster. i’m a sucker for choice. keep them coming dood, 16bit gems are awesome/funny. also, i cant stop listening to the orchestral arrangement of the actraiser soundtrack. its literally, from the gods.
huh?
huh?
all right get outta here.
Nate Peters

I liked the use of the Earthbound arcade music/SFX during your arcade spiel. Nice touch.
VGAlright

I love this game I remember playing this game on vacation with my brother
Stonerman

You Rool, Roo.
Basicrounds

But you did SAI2 last time….
Halos

Cormano is my first pick in this game!
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100002086595577 Horaz St Cruz

Sunsetriders was my favourite arcade game; i managed to beat it up with a single quarter.
I owned the horrible Megadrive version and also got the SNES one.
It’s also one of my favourite VG OSTs. The Song “Take th gun from the Traveller!” -2nd boss theme- is still a magnificent musical masterpiece.
I wonder who were the directors, artists and programmers behind such fantastic gamaes, nad where could they be now…
I HAVE to make a Sunsetriders fanart.

16-Bit Gems #27 – Sunset Riders

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