Ghost Squad

Chris Scantleberry March 25, 2008

It’s no secret that arcade shooters have become increasingly stagnant over the years. I am sure this news doesn’t come as a surprise to anyone since Namco remains the only developer still keeping hope alive by periodically releasing new installments of Time Crisis. Alright, so perhaps I’m exaggerating just a bit since Sega, whose arcade portfolio consists of an impressive run of arcade shooter releases, decided it was time to hop onto the niche bandwagon. The arrival of Ghost Squad couldn’t have come at a better time, especially for those of you who’ve been eagerly awaiting some variety.

I am going to assume that if you’re reading this article, chances are you’ve played at least one rail shooter in your lifetime. Panzer Dragoon, Starfox, the Time Crisis series, Virtua Cop, House of the Dead… or if you really want to kick it old-school: Space Harrier. Any of these titles ring a bell? If so, great, you should feel right at home with Ghost Squad. Arcade purists will appreciate that the arcade classics remains intact and get their trigger-happy friends to join them via local co-op play or through the Wi-Fi connection.

If you’re a newcomer unaccustomed to the rail-shooter style or simply in need of honing your skills, spending some quality time in the Training Mode will ensure success beyond the first two or three levels, especially if you’re hoping to shine amongst fellow sharpshooters in the Leaderboards. Suffice it to say, I’ve got a long way to go before I’ll even land in the Top 100. Only the truly skilled players will also be fortunate enough to acquire additional items to aid them in the more advanced levels and unlock bonus recon apparel, which oddly includes a panda suit? That feels so Tekken. I guess I’d prefer to see Sonic or Alex Kidd thrown in there for us old timers.

On occasion, you’ll need to make a tactical decision (i.e. securing the hostages or deactivating the bomb) before continuing your progress throughout the level. The decisions will become even greater as you advance through mission levels. The special events are more or less an extension of the tactical decisions, except that you’re timed and only get one opportunity to get it right. That turned me off a bit because you can’t revisit levels unless you start a new profile.

I love the pacing, something which most shooters have a difficulty getting “just right.” Players seeking a tougher challenger can adjust the difficulty level as they become progressively more skilled and accurate with dispatching enemies. Right now, I’ll stick to Normal – not quite ready for Hard just yet. I must admit that I am spoiled by the lack of a cover system, a staple that remained exclusive to the Time Crisis series. I understand rail shooters are designed to limit your movement, but don’t you think it’s time they evolve to the point where it’s a standard feature?

Since this is an arcade shooter, the gameplay elements are very simple and easy for anyone to pick up and enjoy. It’s a solid experience on higher difficulties, which definitely deserves a second run, especially with added benefit of multiple game paths. Plus the party mode is an excellent diversion from the standard arcade mode and the multiplayer option will ultimately make this a keeper. If you’re starved for a new rail shooter or missed out on the original Ghost Squad release, picking this up should be a no-brainer. Unless you’ve given up on the genre entirely – in that case, I believe Master Chief is still looking for a few good men.