Strider

Game review

In Strider, players assume the role of Hiryu, a member of a futuristic group of high-tech ninjas known as "Striders." The game's storyline unfolds in a dystopian future where players must navigate through various levels, battling enemies and overcoming obstacles to defeat an evil dictator who seeks world domination.

The gameplay is characterized by its speed and fluidity, with Hiryu capable of a range of acrobatic moves, including flips, slides, and a distinctive form of scaling walls and ceilings. This agility is a key element of the game, as players must use these abilities to traverse the game's levels, which are filled with hazards and enemy forces. One of Strider's most notable features is its use of a cypher, a plasma sword, as Hiryu's primary weapon. This sword is not only iconic in its design but also central to the gameplay, as it's used to dispatch a variety of enemies, from soldiers to large robotic creatures. The game also incorporates various power-ups and abilities that can be collected, enhancing Hiryu's skills and weaponry.

The level design in Strider is varied and imaginative, taking players through different environments, from futuristic cities to Siberian wildernesses. Each level presents its own set of challenges and enemy types, requiring players to adapt their strategies. The game also features memorable boss battles, each requiring different tactics to defeat.

Strider was acclaimed for its cutting-edge graphics, compelling gameplay, and its innovative blend of platforming and action elements. The character of Strider Hiryu, with his distinctive look and arsenal, became iconic in the gaming world. The game's influence can be seen in numerous action-platformers that followed, with many citing Strider as a source of inspiration.