_{Image source}

Sparkster is a side-scrolling platform action game made by Konami for the Super Nintendo. It was the only game in the series released on Nintendo consoles and came out in 1994.

Sparkster is a follow-up to the original Rocket Knight Adventures on the Sega Genesis (which I have posted a review before), but it is a different game from the Sega Genesis sequel called Sparkster: Rocket Knight Adventures 2.

This is an action game developed by Konami. Although it is a quality game from a big name like Konami, Sparkster is not very well-known. Among hundreds of dull and unoriginal platform and action games, This one really stands out with its creative level design and fresh gameplay.

Japan only box cover art (Image source)

The Story

Sparkster is back, and he is one boosted opossum! He is jet-packing into action as the mightiest Rocket Knight around. Take Sparkster and blast through 8 exciting stages to defeat the evil King Gedol and his gang of bad lizard allies. And watch out—Axel Gear, the Rocket Knight who has gone rogue, is back and looking for revenge. Sparkster will need his upgraded rocket pack and cool new moves to send Axel packing to the scary side of the planet!

Box, and cartridge of the game. (Image source)

The Graphics and Sound

The graphics in this game are some of the best on the console. The characters are colorful with an anime-like style, and our cartoon hero is detailed, with expressive animations and facial expressions. Enemies are equally well-designed, especially the enemy bosses, which are large and look impressive. Each stage has its own unique style, so you will not get bored seeing the same textures. The game also uses special effects like the layered backgrounds and nice water reflections, which was kinda rare for its time.

The sound effects are decent, though nothing too remarkable, with the typical platformer sounds. The game's music, however, is enjoyable and sometimes very catchy. Each stage has its own unique music that fits well with the game.

https://youtu.be/7lCO4Rn7hZs?si=v7po2UEMA-PO1WDm Gameplay video sample of Sparkster on the SNES. Watch in 360p for near TV resolution of that time.

The Gameplay

Sparkster can do the usual running and jumping like other action-platform characters, but he also has a cool sword that can be used for close combat or to shoot lasers. What makes him unique is his rocket booster pack, which lets him perform action moves. To use the rocket, you press a button to charge up a meter, and when it’s full, you release it to fly quickly in any direction for a few seconds in a straight line. You can even bounce off the walls to change direction, which is helpful for dodging enemies or getting items that are out of reach. He can also do a spin attack when standing still or a quick sidestep attack to avoid taking damage after a rocket launch.

Apart from these moves, Sparkster is a simple action game where you kill enemies, collect items like gems, hearts, and lives, and defeat the enemy boss at the end of each stage. However, Sparkster’s stages are more creative than most. The first level is simple, but later ones add unique challenges. In one level, you fight the enemy, in another, you escape a darn maze full of traps, and in another, you ride a fast cyborg bird, while dodging or attacking enemies. There is even a vertical shooter stage and more. The enemy bosses are also creative, like one that hits a giant instrument while you fight, making music as you go.

Sparkster is a damn challenging game, even on the easiest difficulty. It takes skill to dodge attacks and beat bosses, and there are hidden extreme difficulty modes for that extra nice challenge. The downside is the replay value — once you beat the game, there is not much else to do besides trying it on a greater difficulty.

My Verdict

Sparkster is a well-designed action platformer video game with lots of creativity and fun features. However, it is missing that special "classic" feel that would make it damn super addictive. Still, it is very entertaining while it lasts.

Play it on the groovy Super Nintendo/Super Famicom or play it on a well-liked emulator.

Let's keep on gaming in the free world!

Topics