Hey There Space Cats!!!! (Space Channel 5 (DC))

Member Name: Vincent

Product:	Space Channel 5 (DC)
Date:	25/07/00 (54 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Most funky and stylish game ever developed

Disadvantages: A bit short only 4 stages

Developed by legendary producer Tetsuya Mizuguchi who also produced Sega Rally and Sega Rally 2 this new game seems to be a radical departure from his original racing roots. This is not to say the game is no good. In fact that could not be further from the truth.......

The game stars Ulala a reporter for Space Channel 5 (hence the name)who is sent to investigate a strange case where aliens named morolians have hypnotized humans and forced them to dance. To free the humans you as the feisty Ulala must attempt to outdance them.

Whereas both Sega Rally 1 and 2 redefined the racing genre Space Channel 5 also redefines the music genre (if one exists). The game follows a similar pattern to 'Simon Says..' with you the player copying the dance moves of morolians in time with the beat. Some are very easy to perform whereas others are much tougher requiring great memory and considerable musical talent. Although the gameplay sounds simple the game is very addictive. It kept me playing until i had managed to rescue all the hostages.

The graphics in the game are excellent with Ulala, the morolians and the humans pasted on top of streaming FMV. The effect is beautiful and allows the developers to provide detailed backdrops which move. Imagine Resident Evil backdrops but with movement. The dance routines are likewise excellent. I imagine Sega used a professional choreographer and motion captured them to perfection.

The sound which is vital in a game like this is also fantastic ranging from the cheesy 60's introduction screen music to funky techno and pop throughout the game. The music is so good that i have purchased the game soundtrack already.

Ulala is one of the most brilliantly designed characters ever that while you are playing the game you actually wish she exists. Unfortunately she doesn't. Oh well....... Also making a guest appearance is non other than the most successful artist of all time- Michael Jackson who a
lso speaks while providing the game with some typical Jackson dance routines.

This game is one of the most stylish and funky ever produced and will get you hooked so do yourself a favour and buy a copy when it is released officially in Europe or import one from America.

Up Chu, Right Chu, Left Chu Chu !!!!!

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