For: Sega Genesis, Wii Virtual Console (reviewed for the Virtual Console)
Players: 1-2
Developed by: Treasure Co. Ltd.
Published By: Sega
ESRB: E10+ (originally rated GA by the VRC)

Gunstar Heroes is a run and gun game (similar to Contra) published by Sega, the guys who gave you everyone's favorite hedgehog. But after being released 14 years ago for the Genesis, is Gunstar Heroes still worth 800 points?

Gunstar Heroes is relatively short, but that doesn't mean you can't have a little fun. As you traverse each of the varied levels, you are given four different gun types, each with it's own special strengths and weaknesses. On top of that, you can combine each gun type with another one, giving you several different ways to wipe your enemies out of existence. You can throw your enemies, which is the most effective way in killing tougher enemies. Throwing is actually stronger than shooting a gun for some reason. There are several enemy ships that can take a lot of shots before going down, but one throw destroys it. Why, I do not know, but it is very helpful. There were a few things that annoyed me, like the difficulty curve. The first level was fairly easy, like a first level should. However, the NEXT level had you facing several bosses in a row, with no break or any gain in life.

Gunstar Heroes had fairly good graphics, but the most impressive part of the visuals is frame rate. It nearly never drops, no matter how many enemies are on screen. It makes a whole lot of difference in a game when there is no slowdown; less frustrating and easier to play.

The game has some catchy songs, but nothing you will be humming to yourself as you do other things. The sound effects are not that great and there aren't any voice overs, but we're talking about the Genesis here. At least these effects aren't very loud or annoying. Altogether, the sound isn't all that spectacular. But it's good music to play games to, unlike some games that have you reaching for your volume button immediately.

Since the game is short, you will probably want to play through it again. This would normally be boring, however, there is a few things you can do differently. You can play through using different gun combos, because there are some that are more effective and fun than others. You can also play through the levels in a different pattern.

Gameplay: 8.5/10
Graphics: 7.5/10
Sound: 6/10
Replay Value: 7/10
Overall: 8/10 (not an average)

There are a lot of bad games on the VC, so this one comes along as a must buy if you need your Virtual Console fix. While it is short, it will keep you busy for awhile with it's steep difficulty curve. You will probably play though it again, too, so that you can try out other gun combinations that you forgot in your first run through.