Overall 9.1 Graphics 7 Sound 10 Addictive 7 Story 4 Depth 4 Difficulty 6
8.2
Phoenix soars! Ultrajeff
Overview: Phoenix was a game released by Amstar Electronics in 1981. Similar to Space Invaders, the game was a top-down vertical shooting game, like others in the market. However, this game distinguished itself through variety and execution, giving many a game which was not only enjoyable playing, but very visually appealing.
Controls: The left & right buttons are used for moving gracefully and soaring your wings, while the fire button allows you to shoot bullets. The second action button hardens your majestic feathers and creates a shield for you to use for a little while. It's simple, yet extravagant.
Game-play: The game has five, seperate stages. You are a ship, and the game consists of darting around killing enemies and the like with your trusty bullets. Unlike other vertical shooters, you are given a bit more defense in the form of your ship's wings, as bullets pass through when positioned carefully. The first enemies are little birdies, who appear on the first and second stages. They are purple and green, and somewhat resemble bats. They are quite small and quick, either flocking in formation, or swooping in for the kill. They rain bullets absurdly, while also sometimes crashing into you. They are worth 20 points when destroyed in formation, and 40 when charging. The next enemies are Phoenixes, and they appear during stages three and four. They begin their lives as eggs, which can be destroyed for about 50 points. After enough given time, they hatch and attack. The wings can be shot indefinitely, but the phoenix regenerate unless shot face-first. They stay at the top for some time, but eventually draw closer to you until they sabotage you. Using the shield helps destroy them when they get way too close. The final enemy is the queen, from the fifth and final stage. She has a very soft underbelly, which can be shot for points and all, but unadvisable, because she sents out her goons to sick on you. She also has a rotating band, which is purple and protects her quite well. Destroy it, and her defense is weakened considerably. Shoot in-between the band to defeat her in one blow. In short, this game has quite a bit to do for a game released in 1981. 8/10
Graphics: For 1981, it is just divine. The colors pop out and invite your eyes, while the phoenixes and birds flap and flop around with surely detailed asnimations. 7/10
Sound: It is also lovely. Upon starting the game, a dreamy, mythical rendition of Romance de Amor sweeps the player in, while Fur Elise entices your mind upon clearing the game. The sound effects, while a bit repetitive, are fine and dandy, as they perfectly immerse you in the simulated spacial environments. 10/10
Addictiveness: The game is fun to play more than once, just to get down the patterns and all. If you like shooters with strategy, this one will keep you coming back for more. 7/10
Story: Not much of one. The phoenixes are invading precious earth! You must stop them and save the world! 4/10
Depth: You won't do or experience much, just shoot to your heart's content. 4/10
Difficulty: The game's difficulty is only moderate. It isn't completely unfair, but it's not a cakewalk either. 6/10
Conclusion: Phoenix was, and still is, an illustrious game that blows you away in scope, with beautiful music abound. If you enjoy shooters or games with spunk, this will be up your alley. 8.2/10
Graphics 7 Sound 10 Addictive 7 Story 4 Depth 4 Difficulty 6
Review Rating: 3/5
Submitted: 12-08-16
Review Replies: 1
User Notice 
-1.png "Phoenix (Amstar) Title Screen")
-2.png "Phoenix (Amstar) Screenshot 1")
-3.png "Phoenix (Amstar) Screenthot 2")
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