Star Gladiator
Release Date: October 25, 1996
Fighting, science fiction, in space, splitscreen, multiplayer, singleplayer
A three-dimensional fight in the science fiction style, in which warriors are equipped with various types of white weapons. Star Gladiator first appeared on slot machines, and then it was converted to PlayStation 1.
One of the first three-dimensional beat'em ups developed by Capcom. The game draws its inspiration from the Soul Blade game, enabling us to fight battles with the use of melee weapons. However, it differs from the competitor by its science fiction setting.
Story
The year is 2348. Brilliant scientist Edward Bilstein, commissioned by the Federation of the Earth, develops a new type of weapon to ensure the safety of the planet. Plasma Power uses the power of the mind. With time, it becomes apparent that during his research, the doctor conducted illegal experiments. As a punishment, he is sent to a station that orbits the planet Zeta. Several years have passed. Attacks are launched on Earth's bases in different parts of the galaxy. The attackers call themselves the "Fourth Empire" and move towards the Blue Planet. In order to prevent a tragedy, the authorities establish the Star Gladiator project, bringing together people able to use Plasma Power and save innocent civilians.
Mechanics
Star Gladiator is a three-dimensional fighting game, in which warriors equipped with melee weapons compete in arenas suspended in space. The aim of the battle is to deprive the opponent of the whole health bar or to throw them off the battlefield. The devs used four-button combat mechanics - two are responsible for weapon attacks, one for kicks and one for block. A unique element of the game are the abilities of characters connected with the power of the mind - Plasma Power. During the duels the players can defend themselves with Plasma Reverse and Plasma Reflect. The first enables us to avoid a blow and stun the opponent, the second to launch a spectacular counter. Once per round it is also possible to use the powerful Plasma Strike. The depth of the combat system is also created by the option of ending the combos with a Plasma Final attack - launched with a separate button after combining at least a few attacks beforehand.
The creators of the game prepared ten different characters, each with a distinct combat style and using different types of weaponry. You can choose not only the Earth's inhabitants, like the swordsman Hayato or the swordsman Gerelt, but also representatives of alien races - among them the monkey-like, axe-wielding Gamof or the dinosaur Rimgal. Each of them has its own background and story, which is presented in the description after the game is finished.
Japanese devs have prepared a traditional arcade mode, in which we have to win ten subsequent fights to finish the game. Fulfilling certain requirements enables us to unlock additional characters and game mdes, like fighting with invisible walls around the arenas. Star Gladiator also enables two people to fight on the same screen.
Technical aspects
Star Gladiator adopts an SF style, which is emphasized by 3D designs of characters and arenas. The game is part of a successful group of Capcom's fighting games, offering intuitive controls and a dynamic combat system.
Last updated on May 4, 2020
Star Gladiator Summary
Platforms:
PlayStation 1
