The Nintendo SNES Cosmo Police Galivan II - Arrow of Justice is a side-scrolling shooter game developed by NCS Corporation and published by Konami. Released in 1992, it was initially released in Japan for the Super Famicom console and later ported to other platforms such as the Sega Genesis and PC Engine.

Gameplay

The gameplay revolves around controlling the protagonist, Galivan II, a police officer equipped with various firearms and gadgets. The player's objective is to navigate through levels set on different planets, fighting against enemy robots and bosses to progress through the game.

Gameplay mechanics include standard side-scrolling action elements such as shooting enemies, collecting power-ups, and avoiding obstacles like spikes and lava pits. Players can also utilize Galivan II's vehicles to fight against enemies or escape danger. Each level introduces new enemies and challenges that players must overcome using their wits and reflexes.

Graphics and Soundtrack

The game features colorful graphics with vibrant pixel art, characteristic of the SNES era. The game's soundtrack is equally impressive, with catchy and upbeat music that complements the fast-paced action on screen.

Characters

Galivan II, the protagonist, is a well-equipped police officer equipped with firearms and gadgets. Players can upgrade Galivan II's abilities by collecting power-ups and defeating bosses.

Enemies

The game features a variety of enemies, from basic robots to boss battles against larger foes. Enemies come in different shapes, sizes, and behaviors, requiring players to adapt their strategy to succeed.

Boss Battles

Boss battles are an essential part of the game, with each one presenting a unique challenge for the player. Bosses require careful planning and execution to defeat, often involving specific strategies or exploiting patterns in the boss's attacks.

Reception

The Nintendo SNES Cosmo Police Galivan II - Arrow of Justice received positive reviews upon its release. Reviewers praised the game's addictive gameplay, colorful graphics, and catchy soundtrack. However, some critics noted that the game was too short and lacked replay value compared to other shooters of the time.

Age Rating

The Nintendo SNES Cosmo Police Galivan II - Arrow of Justice is rated "E" for Everyone by the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB) in North America, indicating it is suitable for players of all ages. However, parental discretion is advised due to occasional mild violence and brief suggestive humor.

Regional Availability

The game was initially released only in Japan but has since been re-released on various platforms, including the Nintendo Virtual Console, Xbox 360, PlayStation Network, and PC Engine CD. The game's availability varies by region, with some regions having limited releases or no release at all.

Rarity and Collectibility

The Nintendo SNES Cosmo Police Galivan II - Arrow of Justice is considered a relatively rare game, especially outside of Japan. Its rarity has led to it becoming a sought-after collector's item among retro gaming enthusiasts. The game's box art, instruction manual, and packaging are particularly prized by collectors due to their unique artwork and nostalgic value.

Preservation Efforts

In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve the game for future generations. In 2020, the Japanese government listed the Nintendo SNES Cosmo Police Galivan II - Arrow of Justice as an important cultural asset, recognizing its significance in Japan's gaming history.

Conclusion

The Nintendo SNES Cosmo Police Galivan II - Arrow of Justice is a classic side-scrolling shooter that has captured the hearts of many retro gaming enthusiasts. Its addictive gameplay, colorful graphics, and catchy soundtrack make it an enjoyable experience for players of all ages.

While its age rating may suggest it's suitable for younger audiences, parental discretion is advised due to occasional mild violence and brief suggestive humor. The game's rarity and collectibility have made it a sought-after collector's item among retro gaming enthusiasts.

In conclusion, the Nintendo SNES Cosmo Police Galivan II - Arrow of Justice is a must-play for anyone interested in classic shooters or retro gaming in general. Its availability on various platforms has ensured that players can experience this cult classic without having to hunt down rare copies or wait for re-releases.