The Nintendo SNES was a groundbreaking console that brought us some of the most iconic and beloved games of all time. Among these titles, one stands out for its unique blend of action and strategy: BS Super Earth Defense Force (Japan). Released in 1993, this game is an often-overlooked gem that still deserves attention from retro gaming enthusiasts.

For those who may not be familiar with the term "BS" in Japanese console terminology, it refers to the "Broadcast Standard" label used for games released on the Famicom Disk System (FDS) peripheral. The BS Super Earth Defense Force is a Japan-only release, making it inaccessible to most retro gaming enthusiasts outside of Japan.

The game's premise is simple yet engaging: players take on the role of a commander tasked with defending Earth against an alien invasion. The twist lies in its unique blend of action and strategy elements, which sets it apart from other shooter games of its time.

Gameplay-wise, BS Super Earth Defense Force features fast-paced action sequences where players must navigate through increasingly difficult levels while fending off waves of hostile aliens. The game's visuals and sound design are reminiscent of classic sci-fi movies, with sleek, futuristic landscapes and a haunting soundtrack that perfectly complements the on-screen action.

However, what truly sets BS Super Earth Defense Force apart is its incorporation of strategic elements. Players must deploy defensive structures, such as turrets and laser emitters, to protect their base from alien attacks. This adds a layer of depth to the gameplay, requiring players to think critically about resource allocation and enemy weaknesses.

In terms of difficulty, BS Super Earth Defense Force is often cited as one of the toughest shooters in the SNES library. The game's enemies are relentless and well-armed, making every level a challenge. However, this also makes for an incredibly rewarding experience when a difficult section is finally conquered.

Despite its challenging gameplay, BS Super Earth Defense Force has some notable flaws that detract from the overall experience. One of the most significant issues is the lack of save functionality, which means players must memorize entire levels to progress without losing their progress.

Another issue with the game is its poor controller layout, particularly in terms of button placement. The game's use of the D-pad and A-button combination can feel awkward at times, particularly during intense action sequences.

In recent years, BS Super Earth Defense Force has gained a cult following among retro gaming enthusiasts, who have sought out ways to play the game outside of Japan. In 2019, a fan-made translation patch was released, allowing English-speaking players to finally experience this classic shooter.

Age Rating:

BS Super Earth Defense Force is rated C ( Children) in Japan, which means it's suitable for children aged 6 and above. However, due to its mature themes, graphic violence, and strong language, the game may not be suitable for younger audiences.

In terms of content warnings, BS Super Earth Defense Force features:

• Graphic violence against aliens
• Mild profanity and strong language
• Some suggestive humor

Players should be aware that these elements are present throughout the game, particularly in more difficult levels.

Conclusion:

BS Super Earth Defense Force is a hidden gem in the SNES library that deserves attention from retro gaming enthusiasts. Its unique blend of action and strategy elements makes for an engaging and challenging experience. While it has its flaws, such as poor save functionality and awkward controller layout, these issues are largely outweighed by the game's many strengths.

In recent years, a fan-made translation patch has made the game accessible to English-speaking players outside of Japan, allowing us to finally experience this classic shooter in all its glory. If you're a fan of retro gaming or looking for a new challenge, BS Super Earth Defense Force is definitely worth checking out.

Recommendation:

• Fans of retro shooters and strategy games will love BS Super Earth Defense Force.
• Players who enjoy challenging gameplay and are willing to invest time and effort into mastering the game's mechanics.
• Retro gaming enthusiasts interested in exploring lesser-known titles from Japan's Famicom Disk System library.

Rating: 8/10

Pros:

• Unique blend of action and strategy elements
• Challenging gameplay that requires critical thinking
• Engaging visuals and sound design

Cons:

• Poor save functionality
• Awkward controller layout
• Limited accessibility due to Japan-only release

Target Audience:

• Retro gaming enthusiasts
• Fans of shooters and strategy games
• Players looking for a challenging experience