NOTE: I haven't been on vizzed lately because my computers hard drive crashed, now its working again and I have Windows 7 so I'M BACK. Anyway, enjoy the review.

INTRO: Choplifter was actually released several years earlier on home computer systems like the Apple II, and C64. However in 1986 it got a port to the Master System which actually feels more like a remake. As there are different levels, better graphics, and sound. I got it along with three games for my Master System. So how does this game fare with by today's standards? Well read on to find out!

Gameplay B+: Choplifter has some of the best gameplay you will ever find on the Master System. Your goal is to rescue 40 hostages. To do this you must destroy bases which hold 16 of them as your helicopter can only hold that much. You can kill your hostages by squishing them, shooting them, blocking the exit, etc. You can only kill 25 hostages before its game over. There are enemies EVERYWHERE, and avoiding them is kind of difficult. If you keep moving you will only shoot at a diagonal path down, which is useful for shooting ground fire. You can change directions for your helicopter with the 2 button and fire with the 1 button. This is hard to get used to as it takes a full 1/2 a second to rotate, because of this cheap one hit deaths are common. Still Choplifter is one fun game.

Graphics A-: The graphics in this game are nothing short of stellar. The detail in the sprites is incredible, and the backgrounds, oh the backgrounds. They have some really impressive parallax scrolling. Its not just a couple of layers, its like 10 different layers of scrolling. I have to say for an 8-BIT console that is really impressive. Its smooth as well! Speaking of which the scenery has some of the most rich and fine detail I have ever found on the Master System. My only issue is the flickering that happens whenever there is too much on screen. Its only a small distraction though.

Sound C-: I can't say the same for the sound. The music is mediocre at best and the sound effects are just meh. Sound channel canceling is a common problem.

Replay Value B: There really is no reason to come back once you beat this game, but its just so fun. I really don't know what to say.

Depth B-: There are only 4 levels in the game, but that is better then the single level in the original. Each level has something new to offer. For example the water level allows you to rescue hostages on the water, and on ships. They all have a unique look and feel giving the game a fake sense of variety.

OVERALL RATING B+

I had completely forgotten about this game until I read your review. I haven't played it in 20 years but now that I remember it, I really want to play it again.

I've commented on one of your reviews before and I'm pretty sure that I said this last time but I enjoy the grade card rating style. It's a nice change from the points system. You are very articulate as well and this review was a joy to read. Keep up the good work!

I trashed that game for Viz some time ago even though I never played it but because of your great reviews I am going to go get that game back I thought it was trash though well that was stupid of me.

Good review. The game sounds interesting but I doubt I'll be playing it.