GG Aleste (Sega Game Gear review)

Developer: Compile
Publisher: Compile
Released: 1991

GG Aleste is a vertically scrolling shooter that was only released in Japan.

+ If you lose a ship you're never too far away from being presented with weapon and power-up icons.

+ Stages 7 & 8 are notable highlights and their multi-part boss battles provide an epic showcase towards the finale.

+ Bonus Areas are reminiscent of the Challenge Stages in Galaga (1981, Arcade) and offer a great opportunity to power-up.

+ Backgrounds are phenomenal, with lots of faux-3D effects that give the playfields a real sense of depth.

+ Outstanding music that wouldn't sound out-of-place alongside Yuzo Koshiro's tracks in The G.G. Shinobi (1991, Game Gear).

- Unless you're equipped with the Homing item, there's an inordinate amount of slowdown (particularly in Special mode).

- Difficulty pacing isn't the best, and there's an abrupt spike in Stage 5 where enemy bullets litter the environment.