Difference between revisions of "Strider II"

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{{Bob
 
{{Bob
 
| bobscreen=StriderII title.png
 
| bobscreen=StriderII title.png
 +
| bobscreen2=StriderReturns MD US TitleScreen.png
 +
| bobscreen3=StriderII SMS Title.png
 +
| bobscreen4=StriderReturns GG Title.png
 +
| tab1={{MD}} PAL
 +
| tab2={{MD}} NTSC-U
 +
| tab3=Master System
 +
| tab4=Game Gear
 
| publisher=[[U.S. Gold]]
 
| publisher=[[U.S. Gold]]
 
| developer={{company|[[Tiertex]]|system=SMS,GG}}
 
| developer={{company|[[Tiertex]]|system=SMS,GG}}
 +
| distributor={{company|[[Tec Toy]]|region=BR|system=SMS}}
 +
| licensor=[[Capcom]]
 
| system=[[Sega Mega Drive]], [[Sega Master System]], [[Sega Game Gear]]
 
| system=[[Sega Mega Drive]], [[Sega Master System]], [[Sega Game Gear]]
−
| romsize={{MD}} 1MB
 
 
| sounddriver=
 
| sounddriver=
 
| peripherals=
 
| peripherals=
 
| players=1
 
| players=1
−
| genre=Action
+
| genre=Action{{fileref|StriderReturns GG EU Box Back.jpg}}
 
| releases={{releasesMD
 
| releases={{releasesMD
 +
| md_date_us=1993-08{{magref|gamepro|48|56}}
 +
| md_code_us=T-79036
 
| md_date_eu=1993-03{{magref|sfuk|15|39}}
 
| md_date_eu=1993-03{{magref|sfuk|15|39}}
 
| md_code_eu=79036-50
 
| md_code_eu=79036-50
 +
| md_date_uk=1993-06{{magref|segapro|21|18}}<!--1993-03{{magref|sfuk|15|39}}-->
 +
| md_code_uk=79036-50
 
| md_rrp_uk=39.99{{magref|sfuk|15|39}}<!--44.99{{magref|segapower|45|58}}-->
 
| md_rrp_uk=39.99{{magref|sfuk|15|39}}<!--44.99{{magref|segapower|45|58}}-->
−
| md_date_us=1993-08{{magref|gamepro|48|56}}
 
−
| md_code_us=T-79036
 
 
| md_date_au=199x
 
| md_date_au=199x
 
| md_code_au=FSTR11SMC
 
| md_code_au=FSTR11SMC
 +
| md_date_se_r=199x
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{releasesSMS
 
{{releasesSMS
−
| sms_date_eu=1993-04{{magref|sfuk|17|75}}
+
| sms_date_eu=1993-07{{magref|segapro|20|22}}<!--1993-04{{magref|sfuk|17|75}}-->
 
| sms_code_eu=29005-50
 
| sms_code_eu=29005-50
 +
| sms_date_uk=1993-07{{magref|segapro|20|22}}<!--1993-04{{magref|sfuk|17|75}}-->
 +
| sms_code_uk=29005-50
 +
| sms_rrp_uk=29.99{{magref|segazuk|5|21}}
 +
| sms_date_de=1993
 +
| sms_code_de=29005-50
 
| sms_rrp_de=89.95{{magref|segaprode|6|23}}
 
| sms_rrp_de=89.95{{magref|segaprode|6|23}}
 
| sms_date_au=199x
 
| sms_date_au=199x
 +
| sms_code_au=FSTR11SEC
 
| sms_date_br=199x
 
| sms_date_br=199x
 
| sms_code_br=026250
 
| sms_code_br=026250
Line 32: Line 49:
 
| gg_date_eu=1993-08{{magref|segapower|45|13}}<!--1993-05-26{{magref|gamesmaster|6|18}}-->
 
| gg_date_eu=1993-08{{magref|segapower|45|13}}<!--1993-05-26{{magref|gamesmaster|6|18}}-->
 
| gg_code_eu=79048-50
 
| gg_code_eu=79048-50
 +
| gg_date_eu_k=199x
 +
| gg_code_eu_k=79048-50
 +
| gg_rating_eu_k=3
 +
| gg_date_uk=1993-11{{magref|segapro|26|107}}<!--1993-05-26{{magref|gamesmaster|6|18}}, 1993-08{{magref|segapower|45|13}}-->
 +
| gg_code_uk=79048-50
 
| gg_rrp_uk=24.99{{magref|cvg|go17|20}}
 
| gg_rrp_uk=24.99{{magref|cvg|go17|20}}
 
| gg_date_pt=199x
 
| gg_date_pt=199x
 +
| gg_code_pt=GG79048
 
}}
 
}}
 
| otherformats={{NonSega|Amiga|CPC|ST|C64|Spectrum}}
 
| otherformats={{NonSega|Amiga|CPC|ST|C64|Spectrum}}
 
}}
 
}}
−
{{stub}}'''''{{PAGENAME}}''''', known as '''''Journey from Darkness: Strider Returns''''' in North America (although initially it too was known as ''Strider II'') and also being the Game Gear version title in all regions, is a sequel to ''[[Strider]]'', released for the [[Sega Mega Drive]], [[Sega Master System]] and the [[Sega Game Gear]] in 1993. It should not be confused with the later release of ''Strider 2'' which was developed in-house by [[Capcom]] - ''Strider II'' was developed by [[U.S. Gold]], who, at the time, had the rights to the ''Strider'' license outside of Japan.
+
'''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is a sequel to ''[[Strider]]'', released for the [[Sega Mega Drive]], [[Sega Master System]], and the [[Sega Game Gear]] in 1993. It is known as '''''Journey from Darkness: Strider Returns''''' in North America (although initially it too was known as ''Strider II''), which is also the title of the Game Gear version in all regions. ''Strider II'' was developed by [[Tiertex]], who ported the original game to the Master System and various home computers, and published by [[U.S. Gold]], who had the rights to the ''Strider'' license outside of Japan at the time.
−
 
 
−
Even though game received average to positive reviews when it was first released, today Strider II is considered the black sheep of the series. Many fans consider Strider II as a poorly done satire of the original due to fundementaly flawed level designs, lackluster story and bad gameplay plagued with intense slowdowns.
 
  
−
Capcom removed the Strider Returns as part of the original Strider canon.
+
It should not be confused with the later release of ''Strider 2'', which was developed in-house by [[Capcom]].
  
 
==Story==
 
==Story==
−
(Following Shakespaeran level of writing is taken from the manual of the US Version)
 
−
 
 
{{quote|
 
{{quote|
 
This guy is like a bad habit, he just won't go away. Now this '''Evil Master Dude''' and his legions of '''nimrods''' are poised above the planet in a space station, ready to make the planet one big black hole. Not only that, those blasted automadions '''(space slang for funky robot type guys)''' have captured Lexia '''(Not the car, the babe!)''' and holding her prisoner aboard their space station.
 
This guy is like a bad habit, he just won't go away. Now this '''Evil Master Dude''' and his legions of '''nimrods''' are poised above the planet in a space station, ready to make the planet one big black hole. Not only that, those blasted automadions '''(space slang for funky robot type guys)''' have captured Lexia '''(Not the car, the babe!)''' and holding her prisoner aboard their space station.
Line 53: Line 72:
 
It just so happens, that on the island Moralos (you remember the secret base of famous Striders) there is just the guy you are looking for. '''The most pumped up Strider of them all Hinjo,''' is just waiting to punch these guys' light out. Go ahead, grab that control pad and give it a shot, sounds like a piece of cake... Wrong! '''This baby's not your every day space walk in the park!''' Strider's back and the fun is about to begin. Rumble on '''Strider Dude!'''
 
It just so happens, that on the island Moralos (you remember the secret base of famous Striders) there is just the guy you are looking for. '''The most pumped up Strider of them all Hinjo,''' is just waiting to punch these guys' light out. Go ahead, grab that control pad and give it a shot, sounds like a piece of cake... Wrong! '''This baby's not your every day space walk in the park!''' Strider's back and the fun is about to begin. Rumble on '''Strider Dude!'''
 
|US manual
 
|US manual
−
|ref={{fileref|Strider II MD US Manual.pdf}}
+
|ref={{fileref|Strider II MD US Manual.pdf|page=2}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
Grandmaster Meio, the antagonist of the first game, has captured the princess, Lexia (who is not a car). The Strider known as Hinjo must rescue her.
 +
 
 +
==Gameplay==
 +
===Mega Drive version===
 +
The game is an action platformer and plays similarly to its forebear. The Strider Hinjo starts each stage in a capsule and must make his way through the stage to the capsule at the end. Hinjo collects orbs throughout each stage, and these orbs surround Hinjo and protect him when he faces the stage's boss.
 +
 
 +
Hinjo moves with {{left}} and {{right}} and crouches with {{down}}. He does a vertical jump with {{C}} and a cartwheel jump with {{left}}+{{C}} or {{right}}+{{C}}. He slides along the ground with {{down}}+{{C}}. Hinjo has a hook that he uses to latch onto platforms, ceilings, and walls, which he can then climb across. While hanging, he can jump off a ceiling with {{down}} or climb onto a platform with {{up}}. He can climb ropes and chains with {{up}} and {{down}}.
 +
 
 +
Hinjo swings his cypher with {{B}}. Hinjo can swing his cypher while crouching, jumping, or sliding. The player can choose between the original cypher from the first game, which has a tall area of effect, or a new "sweeping" cypher, which is flatter but longer. He can throw shurikens with {{A}}, but they are limited in supply. Shurikens can only be thrown while standing still or crouching.
 +
 
 +
Hinjo has a health gauge with five segments. He loses a life if he loses all of his health, if he falls into a bottomless pit, or if the stage timer runs out. More time is added to the timer at certain checkpoints during the stages. He also has a separate "orb" gauge with five segments, which absorbs damage during boss fights if the player has collected orbs during the stage. The game ends when all of Hinjo's lives are lost, but it can be continued as long as the player has continues remaining. Extra lives are awarded every 20,000 points. There are two difficulty levels, Normal and Expert.
 +
 
 +
====Items====
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=50|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Capsule
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Strider Returns MD, Items.png | 1.5 | crop_width=24 | crop_height=24 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Attack to release an item or bonus points.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Power Up
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Strider Returns MD, Items.png | 1.5 | crop_width=24 | crop_height=24 | crop_x=24 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=The first Power Up item extends the reach of Hinjo's cypher. The second arms Hinjo with 7 shurikens, the third arms him with double shurikens (thrown two at a time in a spread), and the fourth arms him with triple shurikens (thrown three at a time in a spread).
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Small Energy
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Strider Returns MD, Items.png | 1.5 | crop_width=24 | crop_height=24 | crop_x=48 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Restores one health point.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Large Energy
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Strider Returns MD, Items.png | 1.5 | crop_width=24 | crop_height=24 | crop_x=72 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Restores all health points.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Orb Energy
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Strider Returns MD, Items.png | 1.5 | crop_width=24 | crop_height=24 | crop_x=96 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Collect to add additional protective orbs during the boss fight at the end of the stage, up to a maximum of 5.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Protective Orb
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Strider Returns MD, Items.png | 1.5 | crop_width=24 | crop_height=24 | crop_x=120 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=A protective orb that orbits Hinjo and destroys enemies that cross its path. Similar to options in the first game, collecting an orb changes the color of Hinjo's rightmost health point. Hinjo loses the orb if he loses this health point.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Extra Life
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Strider Returns MD, Items.png | 1.5 | crop_width=24 | crop_height=24 | crop_x=144 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Gives the player an extra life.
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
====Stages====
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=320|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=The Forbidden Forest
 +
| screenshot=Strider Returns MD, Stage 1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Strider Returns MD, Stage 1 Boss 1.png
 +
| screenshot3=Strider Returns MD, Stage 1 Boss 2.png
 +
| screenshot4=Strider Returns MD, Stage 1 Boss 3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=The Castle Metropolis
 +
| screenshot=Strider Returns MD, Stage 2.png
 +
| screenshot2=Strider Returns MD, Stage 2 Boss 1.png
 +
| screenshot3=Strider Returns MD, Stage 2 Boss 2.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=The Hive
 +
| screenshot=Strider Returns MD, Stage 3.png
 +
| screenshot2=Strider Returns MD, Stage 3 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=The Alien Depths
 +
| screenshot=Strider Returns MD, Stage 4.png
 +
| screenshot2=Strider Returns MD, Stage 4 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=The Master's Prison Ship
 +
| screenshot=Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Strider Returns MD, Stage 5.png
 +
| screenshot3=Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 2.png
 +
| screenshot4=Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 3.png
 +
| screenshot5=Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 4.png
 +
| screenshot6=Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 5.png
 +
| screenshot7=Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 6.png
 +
| screenshot8=Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 7.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===Master System and Game Gear versions===
 +
The 8-bit version of the game closely follows the design of the Mega Drive version. Hinjo must make his way through each stage, fighting enemies and using his acrobatic abilities. Hinjo collects orbs throughout each stage, and these orbs surround Hinjo and protect him when he faces the stage's boss.
 +
 
 +
Hinjo walks with {{left}} and {{right}} and crouches with {{down}}. He does a vertical jump with {{2}} and a cartwheel jump with {{left}}+{{2}} or {{right}}+{{2}}. He slides along the ground with {{down}}+{{2}}. Hinjo has a hook that he uses to latch onto platforms, ceilings, and walls, which he can then climb across. While hanging, he can jump off a ceiling with {{down}} or climb onto a platform with {{up}}. He can climb ropes and chains with {{up}} and {{down}}.
 +
 
 +
Hinjo throws shurikens with {{1}} while standing. Unlike the Mega Drive version, shurikens are unlimited (but only two can be on-screen at a time). He swings his cypher with {{1}} instead if there is an enemy within melee range or if he is walking, crouching, jumping, or sliding (as shurikens can only be thrown while standing).
 +
 
 +
Hinjo has a health gauge with five segments. He loses a life if he loses all of his health or if the stage timer runs out. More time is added to the timer at certain checkpoints during the stages. Some hazards are also instantly fatal, such as bottomless pits or fire. He also has a separate "orb" gauge with five segments, which absorbs damage during boss fights if the player has collected orbs during the stage. The game ends when all of Hinjo's lives are lost. He starts the game with five lives. The player has one continue with three lives. There are two difficulty levels, Easy and Hard.
 +
 
 +
====Items====
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=50|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Capsule
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Strider II SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Attack to release an item.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Heart
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Strider II SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=16 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Restores part of Hinjo's health gauge.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Orb Energy
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Strider II SMS, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=32 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Collect to add additional protective orbs during the boss fight at the end of the stage, up to a maximum of 5.
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
====Stages====
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=256|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=The Forbidden Forest
 +
| screenshot=Strider II SMS, Stage 1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Strider II SMS, Stage 1 Boss 1.png
 +
| screenshot3=Strider II SMS, Stage 1 Boss 2.png
 +
| screenshot4=Strider II SMS, Stage 1 Boss 3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Castle Metropolis
 +
| screenshot=Strider II SMS, Stage 2.png
 +
| screenshot2=Strider II SMS, Stage 2 Boss 1.png
 +
| screenshot3=Strider II SMS, Stage 2 Boss 2.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Alien Labyrinth
 +
| screenshot=Strider II SMS, Stage 3.png
 +
| screenshot2=Strider II SMS, Stage 3 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=The Rooftops
 +
| screenshot=Strider II SMS, Stage 4.png
 +
| screenshot2=Strider II SMS, Stage 4 Boss.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Master's Lair
 +
| screenshot=Strider II SMS, Stage 5.png
 +
| screenshot2=Strider II SMS, Stage 5 Boss 1.png
 +
| screenshot3=Strider II SMS, Stage 5 Boss 2.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 +
==History==
 +
===Legacy===
 +
Even though game received average to positive reviews when it was first released, today ''Strider II'' is considered the black sheep of the series. Many fans consider ''Strider II'' to be a poorly done imitation of the original due to fundamentally flawed level designs, lackluster story, and bad gameplay plagued with intense slowdowns. [[Capcom]] released their own internally developed ''Strider 2'' to arcades in 1999 and has removed the Western-developed ''Strider II'' from the ''Strider'' canon.
  
 
==Magazine articles==
 
==Magazine articles==
Line 84: Line 277:
 
==Physical scans==
 
==Physical scans==
 
===Mega Drive version===
 
===Mega Drive version===
−
{{ratings
+
{{ratings|MD}}
−
| icon=MD
 
−
| consolesplus=91
 
−
| consolesplus_source={{num|21|page=100-103}}
 
−
| ebrain=50
 
−
| ebrain_source={{magref|ebrain|35|36}}
 
−
| mega=44
 
−
| mega_source={{magref|mega|5|46|printpage=46/47}}
 
−
| playerone=69
 
−
| playerone_source={{num|33|page=68/69}}
 
−
| segapower=53
 
−
| segapower_source={{num|45|page=58}}
 
−
| segapro=82
 
−
| segapro_source={{num|22|page=60/61}}
 
−
| sfuk=83
 
−
| sfuk_source={{magref|sfuk|15|38|printpage=38/39}}
 
−
}}
 
 
{{Scanbox
 
{{Scanbox
 
| console=Mega Drive
 
| console=Mega Drive
Line 112: Line 289:
 
| cover=StriderII MD EU Box.jpg
 
| cover=StriderII MD EU Box.jpg
 
| cart=StriderII MD EU Cart.jpg
 
| cart=StriderII MD EU Cart.jpg
−
| manual=
+
| manual=Strider II MD EU Manual.jpg
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Mega Drive
 
| console=Mega Drive
−
| region=AU
+
| region=SE rental (HENT orange)
−
| cover=
+
| cover=StriderII MD SE rental cover.jpg
 
| cart=
 
| cart=
−
| manual=
 
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Mega Drive
 
| console=Mega Drive
−
| region=SE (Rental)
+
| region=AU
 
| cover=
 
| cover=
 
| cart=
 
| cart=
 +
| manual=
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===Master System version===
 
===Master System version===
−
{{ratings
+
{{ratings|SMS}}
−
| icon=SMS
 
−
| consolesplus=84
 
−
| consolesplus_source={{num|20|page=142/143}}
 
−
| playerone=69
 
−
| playerone_source={{num|31|page=98}}
 
−
| segapower=58
 
−
| segapower_source={{magref|segapower|40|58|printpage=58-60}}
 
−
| segapro=75
 
−
| segapro_source={{num|17|page=28/29}}
 
−
| segazuk=79
 
−
| segazuk_source={{num|5|page=22/23}}
 
−
| sfuk=75
 
−
| sfuk_source={{magref|sfuk|17|74|printpage=74/75}}
 
−
}}
 
 
{{Scanbox
 
{{Scanbox
 
| console=Master System
 
| console=Master System
Line 151: Line 314:
 
| console=Master System
 
| console=Master System
 
| region=AU
 
| region=AU
−
| cover=
+
| cover=StriderII SMS AU cover.jpg
−
| cart=
+
| cart=StriderII SMS AU cart.jpg
 
| manual=
 
| manual=
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
Line 159: Line 322:
 
| cover=StriderII SMS BR Box.jpg
 
| cover=StriderII SMS BR Box.jpg
 
| cart=StriderII SMS BR Cart.jpg
 
| cart=StriderII SMS BR Cart.jpg
 +
| manual=Strideer2-SMS-BR-Manual.pdf
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===Game Gear version===
 
===Game Gear version===
−
{{ratings
+
{{ratings|GG}}
−
| icon=GG
 
−
| cvg=68
 
−
| cvg_source={{magref|cvg|go17|20|printpage=20/21}}
 
−
| gamepro=70
 
−
| gamepro_source={{magref|gamepro|51|143|printpage=139}}
 
−
| playerone=72
 
−
| playerone_source={{num|38|page=118}}
 
−
| smf=76
 
−
| smf_source={{magref|smf|4|36}}
 
−
}}
 
 
{{Scanbox
 
{{Scanbox
 
| console=Game Gear
 
| console=Game Gear
Line 186: Line 340:
 
| front=StriderII GG EU Box Front.jpg
 
| front=StriderII GG EU Box Front.jpg
 
| back=StriderReturns GG EU Box Back.jpg
 
| back=StriderReturns GG EU Box Back.jpg
−
| spinemissing=yes
+
| spine=Strider II MD EU BoxSpine.jpg
 +
| cart=StriderReturns GG EU Cart.jpg
 +
| manual=Strider II MD EU EURO Manual.jpg
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Game Gear
 +
| region=EU ([[Kixx]])
 +
| front=StriderII GG EU Box Front Kixx.jpg
 +
| spine=Strider II MD EU EURO KIXX BoxSpine.jpg
 +
| back=Strider II MD EU EURO KIXX BoxBack.jpg
 
| cart=StriderReturns GG EU Cart.jpg
 
| cart=StriderReturns GG EU Cart.jpg
 +
| manual=Strider II MD EU EURO Manual.jpg
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Game Gear
 
| console=Game Gear
−
| region=EU (Kixx)
+
| region=PT
−
| cover=StriderII GG EU Box Front Kixx.jpg
+
| front=StriderII GG PT Box Front.jpg
 
| cart=StriderReturns GG EU Cart.jpg
 
| cart=StriderReturns GG EU Cart.jpg
 +
| manual=Strider II MD PT Manual.jpg
 +
| item1=Strider II MD EU EURO Manual.jpg
 +
| item1name=EU Manual
 +
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
==Technical information==
 
==Technical information==
−
===ROM dump status===
+
{{mainArticle|{{PAGENAME}}/Technical information}}
−
{{romtable|
 
−
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==References==
 
==References==
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{{StriderIIOmni}}
 
{{StriderIIOmni}}
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{{Strider}}
 
[[Category:Sega Channel games]]
 
[[Category:Sega Channel games]]

Revision as of 15:55, 26 September 2024

n/a

  • Sega Mega Drive
    PAL
  • Sega Mega Drive
    NTSC-U
  • Master System
  • Game Gear

StriderII title.png

StriderReturns MD US TitleScreen.png

StriderII SMS Title.png

StriderReturns GG Title.png

Strider II
System(s): Sega Mega Drive, Sega Master System, Sega Game Gear
Publisher: U.S. Gold
Developer:
Distributor:
Sega Master System
Tec Toy (BR)
Licensor: Capcom
Genre: Action[1]

















Number of players: 1
Release Date RRP Code
Sega Mega Drive
US 		T-79036
Sega Mega Drive
EU 		79036-50
Sega Mega Drive
UK 		£39.9939.99[3] 79036-50
Sega Mega Drive
SE
(Rental)
Sega Mega Drive
AU 		FSTR11SMC
Sega Master System
EU 		29005-50
Sega Master System
DE 		DM 89.9589.95[7] 29005-50
Sega Master System
UK 		£29.9929.99[6] 29005-50
Sega Master System
AU 		FSTR11SEC
Sega Master System
BR 		026250
Sega Game Gear
US 		$39.9539.95[8] T-79048
Sega Game Gear
EU 		79048-50
Sega Game Gear
EU
(Kixx) 		79048-50
ELSPA: 3+ OK
Sega Game Gear
PT 		GG79048
Sega Game Gear
UK 		£24.9924.99[11] 79048-50
Non-Sega versions

Strider II is a sequel to Strider, released for the Sega Mega Drive, Sega Master System, and the Sega Game Gear in 1993. It is known as Journey from Darkness: Strider Returns in North America (although initially it too was known as Strider II), which is also the title of the Game Gear version in all regions. Strider II was developed by Tiertex, who ported the original game to the Master System and various home computers, and published by U.S. Gold, who had the rights to the Strider license outside of Japan at the time.

It should not be confused with the later release of Strider 2, which was developed in-house by Capcom.

Story

“

This guy is like a bad habit, he just won't go away. Now this Evil Master Dude and his legions of nimrods are poised above the planet in a space station, ready to make the planet one big black hole. Not only that, those blasted automadions (space slang for funky robot type guys) have captured Lexia (Not the car, the babe!) and holding her prisoner aboard their space station.

Don't it just make your blood boil? Doesn't it make your skin crawl? Does it make your face turn red with anger? Hold on, get a grip! We've been in this kind of fix before. Okay, okay, you're right, probably not this bad. But hey, this is a video game there's always a good guy somewhere. Get with the program!

It just so happens, that on the island Moralos (you remember the secret base of famous Striders) there is just the guy you are looking for. The most pumped up Strider of them all Hinjo, is just waiting to punch these guys' light out. Go ahead, grab that control pad and give it a shot, sounds like a piece of cake... Wrong! This baby's not your every day space walk in the park! Strider's back and the fun is about to begin. Rumble on Strider Dude!

„

— US manual [12]


Grandmaster Meio, the antagonist of the first game, has captured the princess, Lexia (who is not a car). The Strider known as Hinjo must rescue her.

Gameplay

Mega Drive version

The game is an action platformer and plays similarly to its forebear. The Strider Hinjo starts each stage in a capsule and must make his way through the stage to the capsule at the end. Hinjo collects orbs throughout each stage, and these orbs surround Hinjo and protect him when he faces the stage's boss.

Hinjo moves with Left and Right and crouches with Down. He does a vertical jump with C and a cartwheel jump with Left+C or Right+C. He slides along the ground with Down+C. Hinjo has a hook that he uses to latch onto platforms, ceilings, and walls, which he can then climb across. While hanging, he can jump off a ceiling with Down or climb onto a platform with Up. He can climb ropes and chains with Up and Down.

Hinjo swings his cypher with B. Hinjo can swing his cypher while crouching, jumping, or sliding. The player can choose between the original cypher from the first game, which has a tall area of effect, or a new "sweeping" cypher, which is flatter but longer. He can throw shurikens with A, but they are limited in supply. Shurikens can only be thrown while standing still or crouching.

Hinjo has a health gauge with five segments. He loses a life if he loses all of his health, if he falls into a bottomless pit, or if the stage timer runs out. More time is added to the timer at certain checkpoints during the stages. He also has a separate "orb" gauge with five segments, which absorbs damage during boss fights if the player has collected orbs during the stage. The game ends when all of Hinjo's lives are lost, but it can be continued as long as the player has continues remaining. Extra lives are awarded every 20,000 points. There are two difficulty levels, Normal and Expert.

Items

Strider Returns MD, Items.png
 Capsule
Attack to release an item or bonus points.
Strider Returns MD, Items.png
 Power Up
The first Power Up item extends the reach of Hinjo's cypher. The second arms Hinjo with 7 shurikens, the third arms him with double shurikens (thrown two at a time in a spread), and the fourth arms him with triple shurikens (thrown three at a time in a spread).
Strider Returns MD, Items.png
 Small Energy
Restores one health point.
Strider Returns MD, Items.png
 Large Energy
Restores all health points.
Strider Returns MD, Items.png
 Orb Energy
Collect to add additional protective orbs during the boss fight at the end of the stage, up to a maximum of 5.
Strider Returns MD, Items.png
 Protective Orb
A protective orb that orbits Hinjo and destroys enemies that cross its path. Similar to options in the first game, collecting an orb changes the color of Hinjo's rightmost health point. Hinjo loses the orb if he loses this health point.
Strider Returns MD, Items.png
 Extra Life
Gives the player an extra life.

Stages

Strider Returns MD, Stage 1.png

Strider Returns MD, Stage 1 Boss 1.png

Strider Returns MD, Stage 1 Boss 2.png

Strider Returns MD, Stage 1 Boss 3.png

  • Strider Returns MD, Stage 1.png

  • Strider Returns MD, Stage 1 Boss 1.png

  • Strider Returns MD, Stage 1 Boss 2.png

  • Strider Returns MD, Stage 1 Boss 3.png

The Forbidden Forest

Strider Returns MD, Stage 2.png

Strider Returns MD, Stage 2 Boss 1.png

Strider Returns MD, Stage 2 Boss 2.png

  • Strider Returns MD, Stage 2.png

  • Strider Returns MD, Stage 2 Boss 1.png

  • Strider Returns MD, Stage 2 Boss 2.png

The Castle Metropolis

Strider Returns MD, Stage 3.png

Strider Returns MD, Stage 3 Boss.png

  • Strider Returns MD, Stage 3.png

  • Strider Returns MD, Stage 3 Boss.png

The Hive

Strider Returns MD, Stage 4.png

Strider Returns MD, Stage 4 Boss.png

  • Strider Returns MD, Stage 4.png

  • Strider Returns MD, Stage 4 Boss.png

The Alien Depths

Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 1.png

Strider Returns MD, Stage 5.png

Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 2.png

Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 3.png

Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 4.png

Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 5.png

Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 6.png

Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 7.png

  • Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 1.png

  • Strider Returns MD, Stage 5.png

  • Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 2.png

  • Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 3.png

  • Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 4.png

  • Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 5.png

  • Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 6.png

  • Strider Returns MD, Stage 5 Boss 7.png

The Master's Prison Ship

Master System and Game Gear versions

The 8-bit version of the game closely follows the design of the Mega Drive version. Hinjo must make his way through each stage, fighting enemies and using his acrobatic abilities. Hinjo collects orbs throughout each stage, and these orbs surround Hinjo and protect him when he faces the stage's boss.

Hinjo walks with Left and Right and crouches with Down. He does a vertical jump with 2 and a cartwheel jump with Left+2 or Right+2. He slides along the ground with Down+2. Hinjo has a hook that he uses to latch onto platforms, ceilings, and walls, which he can then climb across. While hanging, he can jump off a ceiling with Down or climb onto a platform with Up. He can climb ropes and chains with Up and Down.

Hinjo throws shurikens with 1 while standing. Unlike the Mega Drive version, shurikens are unlimited (but only two can be on-screen at a time). He swings his cypher with 1 instead if there is an enemy within melee range or if he is walking, crouching, jumping, or sliding (as shurikens can only be thrown while standing).

Hinjo has a health gauge with five segments. He loses a life if he loses all of his health or if the stage timer runs out. More time is added to the timer at certain checkpoints during the stages. Some hazards are also instantly fatal, such as bottomless pits or fire. He also has a separate "orb" gauge with five segments, which absorbs damage during boss fights if the player has collected orbs during the stage. The game ends when all of Hinjo's lives are lost. He starts the game with five lives. The player has one continue with three lives. There are two difficulty levels, Easy and Hard.

Items

Strider II SMS, Items.png
 Capsule
Attack to release an item.
Strider II SMS, Items.png
 Heart
Restores part of Hinjo's health gauge.
Strider II SMS, Items.png
 Orb Energy
Collect to add additional protective orbs during the boss fight at the end of the stage, up to a maximum of 5.

Stages

Strider II SMS, Stage 1.png

Strider II SMS, Stage 1 Boss 1.png

Strider II SMS, Stage 1 Boss 2.png

Strider II SMS, Stage 1 Boss 3.png

  • Strider II SMS, Stage 1.png

  • Strider II SMS, Stage 1 Boss 1.png

  • Strider II SMS, Stage 1 Boss 2.png

  • Strider II SMS, Stage 1 Boss 3.png

The Forbidden Forest

Strider II SMS, Stage 2.png

Strider II SMS, Stage 2 Boss 1.png

Strider II SMS, Stage 2 Boss 2.png

  • Strider II SMS, Stage 2.png

  • Strider II SMS, Stage 2 Boss 1.png

  • Strider II SMS, Stage 2 Boss 2.png

Castle Metropolis

Strider II SMS, Stage 3.png

Strider II SMS, Stage 3 Boss.png

  • Strider II SMS, Stage 3.png

  • Strider II SMS, Stage 3 Boss.png

Alien Labyrinth

Strider II SMS, Stage 4.png

Strider II SMS, Stage 4 Boss.png

  • Strider II SMS, Stage 4.png

  • Strider II SMS, Stage 4 Boss.png

The Rooftops

Strider II SMS, Stage 5.png

Strider II SMS, Stage 5 Boss 1.png

Strider II SMS, Stage 5 Boss 2.png

  • Strider II SMS, Stage 5.png

  • Strider II SMS, Stage 5 Boss 1.png

  • Strider II SMS, Stage 5 Boss 2.png

Master's Lair

History

Legacy

Even though game received average to positive reviews when it was first released, today Strider II is considered the black sheep of the series. Many fans consider Strider II to be a poorly done imitation of the original due to fundamentally flawed level designs, lackluster story, and bad gameplay plagued with intense slowdowns. Capcom released their own internally developed Strider 2 to arcades in 1999 and has removed the Western-developed Strider II from the Strider canon.

Magazine articles

Main article: Strider II/Magazine articles.

Promotional material

Logo-pdf.svg
Print advert in Sega Visions (US) #15: "October/November 1993" (1993-xx-xx)
Logo-pdf.svg
Logo-pdf.svg
Mega Drive print advert in Consoles + (FR) #23: "Septembre 1993" (1993-0x-xx)
Logo-pdf.svg
Logo-pdf.svg
Print advert in Todo Sega (ES) #5: "Agosto 1993" (1993-0x-xx)
Logo-pdf.svg
Logo-pdf.svg
Mega Drive print advert in Sega Force (SE) #1993-06: "6/93" (1993-09-30)
Logo-pdf.svg

Artwork

  • StriderII Art Cover.jpg

Physical scans

Mega Drive version

Sega Retro Average 
Publication Score Source
{{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
Based on
0 review
Sega Retro Average 
Publication Version Score
1700 igr dlya Sega (RU)
50
[13]
Aktueller Software Markt (DE)
67
[14]
Consoles + (FR)
91
[15]
Electric Brain (UK) PAL
50
[16]
Electronic Gaming Monthly (US) NTSC-U
68
[17]
Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide (UK)
72
[18]
Game Power (IT) PAL
39
[19]
Joypad (FR) PAL
73
[20]
Mega (UK) PAL
44
[21]
Mega Force (FR)
86
[22]
Mega Fun (DE) PAL
57
[23]
Player One (FR) PAL
69
[24]
ProGames (BR)
100
[25]
Sega Power (UK) PAL
53
[26]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
82
[27]
Sega Force (SE)
86
[28]
Sega Force (UK) PAL
83
[29]
Tricks 16 bit (RU)
74
[30]
Video Games (DE) PAL
77
[31]
VideoGames (US) NTSC-U
70
[32]
Sega Mega Drive
 70
Based on
20 reviews

Strider II

Mega Drive, US
StriderII MD US Box.jpg
Cover
Striderii md us cart.jpg
Cart
Strider II MD US Manual.pdf
Manual
Mega Drive, EU
StriderII MD EU Box.jpg
Cover
StriderII MD EU Cart.jpg
Cart
Strider II MD EU Manual.jpg
Manual
Mega Drive, SE rental (HENT orange)
StriderII MD SE rental cover.jpg
Cover
Mega Drive, AU

Master System version

Sega Retro Average 
Publication Score Source
{{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
Based on
0 review
Sega Retro Average 
Publication Version Score
Consoles + (FR) PAL
84
[33]
Digitiser (UK) PAL
70
[34]
Hobby Consolas (ES)
70
[35]
Mega Force (FR)
75
[36]
Player One (FR) PAL
69
[37]
Sega Power (UK) PAL
58
[38]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
75
[39]
Sega Pro (UK) PAL
75
[40]
Sega Zone (UK) PAL
79
[41]
Sega Force (UK) PAL
75
[42]
User (GR) PAL
70
[43]
Video Games (DE) PAL
20
[44]
Sega Master System
 68
Based on
12 reviews

Strider II

Master System, EU
StriderII SMS EU Box.jpg
Cover
StriderII SMS EU Cart.jpg
Cart
Strider II SMS EU Manual.pdf
Manual
Master System, AU
StriderII SMS AU cover.jpg
Cover
StriderII SMS AU cart.jpg
Cart
Master System, BR
StriderII SMS BR Box.jpg
Cover
StriderII SMS BR Cart.jpg
Cart

Game Gear version

Sega Retro Average 
Publication Score Source
{{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
Based on
0 review
Sega Retro Average 
Publication Version Score
Console Mania (IT) PAL
81
[45]
Computer & Video Games (UK) PAL
68
[11]
Electronic Gaming Monthly (US) NTSC-U
70
[46]
GamePro (US) NTSC-U
70
[47]
Game Informer (US) NTSC-U
75
[48]
Mega Force (FR)
83
[49]
Player One (FR) PAL
72
[50]
Sega Master Force (UK) PAL
76
[51]
Video Games (DE) PAL
20
[52]
VideoGames (US) NTSC-U
70
[53]
Sega Game Gear
 69
Based on
10 reviews

Strider II

Game Gear, US
StriderII GG US Box Back.jpgNospine.pngStriderII GG US Box Front.jpg
Cover
StriderReturns GG US Cart.jpg
Cart
Strider II GG US Manual.pdf
Manual
Game Gear, EU
StriderReturns GG EU Box Back.jpgStrider II MD EU BoxSpine.jpgStriderII GG EU Box Front.jpg
Cover
StriderReturns GG EU Cart.jpg
Cart
Strider II MD EU EURO Manual.jpg
Manual
Game Gear, EU (Kixx)
Strider II MD EU EURO KIXX BoxBack.jpgStrider II MD EU EURO KIXX BoxSpine.jpgStriderII GG EU Box Front Kixx.jpg
Cover
StriderReturns GG EU Cart.jpg
Cart
Strider II MD EU EURO Manual.jpg
Manual
Game Gear, PT
StriderII GG PT Box Front.jpg
Cover
StriderReturns GG EU Cart.jpg
Cart
Strider II MD PT Manual.jpg
Manual
Strider II MD EU EURO Manual.jpg
EU Manual

Technical information

Main article: Strider II/Technical information.

References

  1. ↑ File:StriderReturns GG EU Box Back.jpg
  2. ↑ GamePro, "July 1993" (US; 1993-xx-xx), page 56
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 Sega Force, "March 1993" (UK; 1993-02-04), page 39
  4. ↑ Sega Pro, "July 1993" (UK; 1993-06-10), page 18
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 Sega Pro, "June 1993" (UK; 1993-05-13), page 22
  6. ↑ Sega Zone, "March 1993" (UK; 1993-02-11), page 21
  7. ↑ Sega Pro, "April 1993" (DE; 1993-03-26), page 23
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 File:GamePro US 051.pdf
  9. ↑ Sega Power, "August 1993" (UK; 1993-07-01), page 13
  10. ↑ Sega Pro, "December 1993" (UK; 1993-11-11), page 107
  11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 Computer & Video Games, "March 1993 (Go! Issue 17)" (UK; 1993-02-15), page 20
  12. ↑ File:Strider II MD US Manual.pdf, page 2
  13. ↑ 1700 igr dlya Sega, "" (RU; 2001-xx-xx), page 294
  14. ↑ Aktueller Software Markt, "Dezember 1993" (DE; 1993-11-08), page 160
  15. ↑ Consoles +, "Juin 1993" (FR; 1993-0x-xx), page 100
  16. ↑ Electric Brain, "June 1993" (UK; 1993-05-26), page 36
  17. ↑ Electronic Gaming Monthly, "October 1993" (US; 1993-xx-xx), page 40
  18. ↑ Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide, "" (UK; 1993-11-18), page 98
  19. ↑ Game Power, "Settembre 1993" (IT; 1993-0x-xx), page 89
  20. ↑ Joypad, "Juin 1993" (FR; 1993-0x-xx), page 86
  21. ↑ Mega, "February 1993" (UK; 1993-01-21), page 46
  22. ↑ Mega Force, "Juin 1993" (FR; 1993-0x-xx), page 82
  23. ↑ Mega Fun, "08/93" (DE; 1993-07-21), page 76
  24. ↑ Player One, "Juillet/Août 1993" (FR; 1993-07-10), page 68
  25. ↑ ProGames, "Julho 1993" (BR; 1993-0x-xx), page 18
  26. ↑ Sega Power, "August 1993" (UK; 1993-07-01), page 58
  27. ↑ Sega Pro, "August 1993" (UK; 1993-07-08), page 56
  28. ↑ Sega Force, "4/93" (SE; 1993-07-08), page 12
  29. ↑ Sega Force, "March 1993" (UK; 1993-02-04), page 38
  30. ↑ Tricks 16 bit, "Tricks Sega Gold 800 igr" (RU; 1998-03-20), page 189
  31. ↑ Video Games, "11/93" (DE; 1993-10-27), page 118
  32. ↑ VideoGames, "September 1993" (US; 1993-0x-xx), page 46
  33. ↑ Consoles +, "Mai 1993" (FR; 1993-0x-xx), page 142
  34. ↑ Digitiser (UK) (1993-05-07)
  35. ↑ Hobby Consolas, "Enero 1993" (ES; 199x-xx-xx), page 54
  36. ↑ Mega Force, "Mai 1993" (FR; 1993-0x-xx), page 96
  37. ↑ Player One, "Mai/Juin 1993" (FR; 1993-05-10), page 98
  38. ↑ Sega Power, "March 1993" (UK; 1993-02-04), page 58
  39. ↑ Sega Pro, "March 1993" (UK; 1993-02-11), page 28
  40. ↑ Sega Pro, "April 1993" (UK; 1993-03-11), page 72
  41. ↑ Sega Zone, "March 1993" (UK; 1993-02-11), page 20
  42. ↑ Sega Force, "May 1993" (UK; 1993-04-01), page 74
  43. ↑ User, "Septémvrios 1993" (GR; 1993-0x-xx), page 57
  44. ↑ Video Games, "2/93" (DE; 1993-01-27), page 105
  45. ↑ Console Mania, "Febbraio 1994" (IT; 1994-0x-xx), page 107
  46. ↑ Electronic Gaming Monthly, "October 1993" (US; 1993-xx-xx), page 44
  47. ↑ GamePro, "October 1993" (US; 1993-xx-xx), page 141
  48. ↑ Game Informer, "September/October 1993" (US; 1993-0x-xx), page 60
  49. ↑ Mega Force, "Janvier 1994" (FR; 1994-01-08), page 124
  50. ↑ Player One, "Janvier 1994" (FR; 199x-xx-xx), page 118
  51. ↑ Sega Master Force, "Autumn 1993" (UK; 1993-09-16), page 36
  52. ↑ Video Games, "3/94" (DE; 1994-02-23), page 103
  53. ↑ VideoGames, "September 1993" (US; 1993-0x-xx), page 64


Strider II

StriderII title.png

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