Difference between revisions of "Flashback"

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{{otherPage|desc=the [[Sega Dreamcast]] game|page=Flashback (Dreamcast)}}
 
{{Bob
 
{{Bob
 
| bobscreen=Flashback Title.png
 
| bobscreen=Flashback Title.png
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| screenwidth=
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| bobscreen2=Flashback MD JP TitleScreen.png
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| title=
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| bobscreen3=Flashback MCD US Title.png
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| publisher=[[U.S. Gold]], [[Sunsoft]] (Japan)
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| tab1={{MD}} NTSC-U/PAL
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| developer=Delphine Software
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| tab2={{MD}} NTSC-J
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| system=[[Sega Mega Drive]], [[Sega Mega CD]]
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| tab3=Mega-CD
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| romsize=
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| publisher={{company|[[U.S. Gold]]}}
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| sounddriver=
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{{company|[[Sunsoft]]|system=MD|region=JP}}
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{{company|[[Sega of America]]|system=MCD}}
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| developer=[[Delphine Software International]]
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| distributor={{company|[[Ecofilmes]]|region=PT|system=MD}}
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{{company|[[Tec Toy]]|system=MD|region=BR}}
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| system=[[Sega Mega Drive]], [[Sega Mega-CD]]
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| sounddriver={{MD}} [[GEMS]]
 
| peripherals=
 
| peripherals=
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| europe=1992
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| players=1
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| usa=1992
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| genre=Action{{fileref|Flashback md jp cover.jpg}}{{ref|https://web.archive.org/web/20200702232146/https://sega.jp/history/hard/megadrive/software_l.html}}
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| japan={{MD}} 29 December 1993
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| originalsystem=[[Amiga]]
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| rrp_jp=8,000 {{MD}}
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| languages={{LanguageList|en|fr|jp|format=MD}}{{LanguageList|en|format=MCD}}
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| genre=Action
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| releases={{releasesMD
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| timeattack=
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| md_date_jp=1993-12-29{{ref|https://web.archive.org/web/20200702232146/https://sega.jp/history/hard/megadrive/software_l.html}}
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| esrb=t
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| md_code_jp=T-15083
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| vrc=ma13
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| md_rrp_jp=8,000
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| sega=
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| md_date_us=1993-02-20{{magref|egm|43|69}}
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| pegi=
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| md_code_us=T-79066
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| elspa=11
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| md_rrp_us=64.95{{magref|vgce|50|32}}
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| bbfc=
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| md_date_eu=1993-06{{magref|mega|16|26}}{{magref|mdag|10|15}}
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| usk=16
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| md_code_eu=79066-50
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| oflc=
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| md_date_uk=1993-06{{magref|mega|16|26}}{{magref|mdag|10|15}}<!--1993-05{{magref|segapro|20|20}}-->
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| adese=
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| md_code_uk=79066-50
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| sell=
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| md_rrp_uk=39.99{{magref|cvg|156|71}}{{magref|mega|9|53}}<!--44.99{{magref|segapro|15|15}}{{magref|megatech|17|57}}-->
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| djctq=
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| md_date_br=199x
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| cero=
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| md_code_br=045070
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| grb=
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| md_date_au=199x
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| esra=
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| md_date_de=1993
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| md_code_de=79066-50
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| md_rrp_de=129.95{{magref|segamagazin|1|66}}
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| md_date_pt=1993
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| md_code_pt=MD79066
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| md_date_se_r=199x
 
}}
 
}}
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'''''Flashback''''' (フラッシュバック), known in the US as '''''Flashback: The Quest for Identity''''', is a platform-action game for the Commodore Amiga developed by Delphine Software and published by [[U.S. Gold]] in 1992. Arguably Delphine Software's greatest work, it has been ported to a variety of platforms, including the [[Sega Mega Drive]] and [[Sega Mega CD]], as well as 3DO, Acorn Archimedes, Atari Jaguar, CD-i, DOS, FM Towns, iPhone OS, Mac OS, NEC PC-9801, and SNES. CD-based versions tend to include full motion video cutscenes and an enhanced music soundtrack, but are essentially the same game.
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{{releasesMCD
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| mcd_date_us=1994-11{{magref|gameplayers|0710|12}}
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| mcd_code_us=4448
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| mcd_rating_us=ma13
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}}
 +
| esra=12
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| otherformats={{NonSega|Amiga|Android|ARC|CDI|IBMPC|FMTOWNS|iOS|JAG|Mac|PC9801VX|PC9801UX|SNES}}
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| savetype={{SaveType
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|MD|password
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
'''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' (フラッシュバック), known in the US as '''''Flashback: The Quest for Identity''''', is a game developed by [[Delphine Software International]] and published by [[U.S. Gold]]. It is a cinematic platformer inspired by ''[[Prince of Persia]]'' and Delphine's own ''[[Another World]]''.
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 +
Arguably Delphine Software's greatest work, the game was well received for its fluid, rotoscoped animations and stealth-like gameplay. Though it was originally developed for the [[Sega Mega Drive]], it was first released for the [[Commodore Amiga]] in 1992. The Mega Drive release followed in 1993, and a [[Mega-CD]] version was released in 1994 in North America, with a planned European release{{magref|segapro|33|10}} getting cancelled.
 +
 
 +
==Story==
 +
In the year 2142, intelligence agent Conrad B. Hart discovers that shapeshifting aliens known as Morphs have infiltrated human society. He records a message to himself, but before he can warn anyone else, he is captured and his memory erased. He later escapes, but crash-lands his vehicle in a jungle, where the gameplay begins as he drops his recorded message.
 +
 
 +
The North American Mega Drive and Mega-CD versions include a comic in their instruction manuals, created by [[Marvel]], that covers the events preceding the game.
 +
 
 +
==Gameplay==
 +
''Flashback'' is a cinematic platform game in which the player controls Conrad B. Hart. Having escaped from aliens, Conrad finds himself in the jungles of the planet Titan with his memory erased. He must recover his memory and save Earth from an alien attack. Each level spans a large number of non-scrolling screens, nearly all of which feature multiple levels of altitude, requiring Conrad to jump, grab onto ledges, climb, use elevators, and drop onto lower levels. As Conrad progresses through the game's seven levels, he is increasingly presented with spatial puzzles, requiring the player to discover how to guide him toward his destination. Late in the game, Conrad receives a teleportation device, and he is able to progress by throwing the device and teleporting into otherwise unreachable areas.
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 +
Conrad walks or turns around with {{left}} and {{right}}. He runs with {{hold|{{A}}|{{left}} or {{right}}}}. He crouches with {{down}} and jumps with {{up}}. If there is a ledge near him, he grabs it automatically when jumping. If the ledge is below him, he can hang off of it with {{hold|{{A}}|{{down}}}} when facing away from it (and drops off it when the player releases {{A}} or pulls himself back up with {{up}}). He can hop over a gap or an object in front of him (such as a tripwire or mine) with {{hold|{{A}}|{{up}}}}. When running, he can leap with {{up}} or roll along the ground with {{down}}. He can roll while crouched with {{downleft}} or {{downright}}. He can control elevators with {{hold|{{A}}|{{up}} or {{down}}}}.
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Conrad also carries a pistol with unlimited ammunition. He draws his gun (or puts it away) with {{C}} and fires it with {{A}} (or pistol whips enemies in melee range). He cannot run or jump while holding his pistol, and he stays crouched when the player presses {{down}} until he stands up with {{up}} and rolls with {{left}} or {{right}}. Conrad finds and collects numerous items over the course of his journey. He picks up objects with {{A}}. The player can open the item inventory by pausing the game with {{Start}} to select an item. After selecting an item, Conrad can use it or give it to someone with {{B}}. For items that are used by placing them (such as Stones or the Teleport Receiver), he throws the item with {{B}} when standing or drops it in place with {{B}} when crouching.
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Conrad has a force shield that absorbs four shots before needing recharging, acting as his health. He has a period of momentary invulnerability after being hit. If he takes damage when he has no more shield points remaining, he dies. Shield points can be restored at energy generators found in levels. Some hazards, such as disintegrators or electric floors, can kill him instantly (but he can run or jump over electric floors). The game ends if he dies, but the player can continue from the beginning of the level or the last save point. The player can see the number of shield points remaining by selecting the shield item in the inventory. Conrad can also find a portable force field with unlimited use, which can act as a temporary barrier to block enemies' shots. Conrad exhibits realistic human running speed and jumping ability, as well as realistic weakness (for example, he dies if he falls from too great a height).
  
−
In ''Flashback'' the player controls Conrad B. Hart, who having escaped from aliens finds himself in the jungles of Titan with his memory erased. He must recover his memory and save earth from an alien attack. The game is largely inspired by ''[[Prince of Persia]]'', though has many notable improvements such as a weapon system. The game was well received due to its fluid animations and stealth-like gameplay.
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There are three difficulty levels (Easy, Normal, and Expert). The game uses passwords for continuing (with different passwords for each difficulty level).
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 +
===Actions===
 +
Sometimes an icon appears when Conrad is standing in a particular spot, which indicates an action that can be performed there if the player presses {{A}} (or presses {{B}} if the action involves using an item).
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=50|
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{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Take
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Actions.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=Pick up an item and place it in the inventory. The inventory can be opened with {{Start}}.
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}}
 +
{{InfoRow
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| title=Talk
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Actions.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=16 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=Talk to a person.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Look
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Actions.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=32 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Inspect an object or read a map.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
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| title=Activate
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Actions.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=48 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Presses a button to perform an action such as opening a door, calling an elevator, or saving at a checkpoint.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Recharge
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Actions.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=64 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Restores Conrad's shield points or cartridge.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Use
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Actions.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=80 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=Inserts an appropriate item, such as a key card or a cartridge, or gives an item to someone.
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}}
 +
}}
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 +
===Items===
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=50|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Shield
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=A protective shield that protects Conrad from multiple hits of damage. It is always active and does not need to be selected to use it, though the number of remaining shield points can be viewed by selecting it in the inventory.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Gun
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=16 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=A firearm, which can be used to kill enemies. It has unlimited ammunition. Conrad draws his gun (or puts it away) with {{C}} and fires it with {{A}}. It is not necessary to select it from the inventory to use it.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Credits
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=32 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=A form of currency. Some NPCs provide Conrad with items in exchange for credits.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Holocube
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=48 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=The Holocube contains a holographic message recorded by Conrad to his future self. Found in the Planet Titan level.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Magnetic Cartridge
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=64 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=The cartridge can be filled at an Energy Generator and deposited in a Cartridge Lock to create a bridge. Found in the Planet Titan level.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Stone
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=80 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=Stones can be used to activate objects such as tripwires. It can be picked up again after it is placed.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Teleporter
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=96 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=An injured man requests Conrad to bring him a Teleporter to teleport to safety. He leaves an ID Card behind. Found in the Planet Titan level.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Key Card
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=112 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=Some switches can only be activated using a Key Card.
 +
}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=ID Card
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=128 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=An identity card that can be used as a key.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Force Field
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=144 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=A barrier that flashes for a moment and shields Conrad from projectiles. Given to Conrad by Ian in the New Washington level.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Fuse
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=160 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=Used to repair a switch that calls a lift. Found in the New Washington level.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Map
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=176 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=A [[:File:Flashback, Subway Map.png|subway map]] for New Washington. Given to Conrad by an NPC in the New Washington level.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Work Permit
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=192 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=Used at the Job Center terminals to accept a mission. Missions award credits when completed. Given to Conrad by an NPC in the New Washington level.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Parcel
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=208 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=Must be retrieved by Conrad to complete his first mission in New Washington.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Replicant Photo
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=224 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=A photo of a replicant who must be assassinated by Conrad in one of his New Washington missions.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Terminal Card
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=240 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=Used to fix the generator in one of Conrad's New Washington missions.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Time
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=256 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=Shows the time remaining before the generator explodes in one of Conrad's New Washington missions.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Papers
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=128 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=Purchased by Conrad for 1,500 credits in New Washington to travel to the Cyber Tower.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Teleport Receiver
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=288 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=The Teleport Receiver can be placed or thrown anywhere. Conrad can then use the Teleport Remote Control to teleport himself to the position of the Teleport Receiver. It can be picked up again after it is placed. Found in the Secret Base of "Paradise" level.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Teleport Remote Control
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=272 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=After placing the Teleport Receiver, Conrad can teleport himself to its position using the Teleport Remote Control. Found in the Secret Base of "Paradise" level.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Mechanical Mouse
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=304 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=A robotic mouse that moves back and forth along the ground once placed (with {{down}}+{{B}}). It can be used to set off tripwires. It can be picked up again after it is placed. Found in the first Planet of Morphs level.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Exploding Mouse
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=352 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=Like the Mechanical Mouse, it moves along the ground autonomously, but it explodes when it is touched. It cannot be picked up again after it is placed. Found in the second Planet of Morphs level.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Diary
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=320 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=The Diary contains information on the alien homeworld's defenses. Found in the first Planet of Morphs level.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Atomic Charge
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=336 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=Used by Conrad to blow up the alien homeworld in the final level. Found in the first Planet of Morphs level.
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}}
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}}
  
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The Sega versions of the game have one notable difference than other versions - Conrad wears a white shirt, presumably due to a more limited on-screen color palette.
+
===Objects===
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=50|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Switch
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Objects.png | 2 | crop_width=32 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=Activating a switch does various things including opening doors. Some switches are activated with {{A}}, but others require selecting a Key Card item from the inventory and using it with {{B}}.
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}}
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{{InfoRow
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| title=Energy Generator
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| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Objects.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=32 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=The player can recharge the Shield or Magnetic Cartridge items by selecting them from the inventory and using them on the Energy Generator with {{B}}.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
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| title=Tripwire
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Objects.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=48 | crop_y=0}}
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| desc=Walking past a tripwire does various things, similar to activating a switch, such as opening a door or summoning a lift. They can be hopped over with {{hold|{{A}}|{{up}}}} or avoided with the Teleport Receiver.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Save Point
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Flashback, Objects.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=32 | crop_x=64 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Saving the game at a Save Point creates a checkpoint where the player restarts if Conrad dies. Despite the terminology, the game does not use a [[battery backup]].
 +
}}
 +
}}
  
−
The game was followed by a 3D title, ''Fade to Black'', a PlayStation 1 exclusive. Plans for a second sequel called ''Flashback Legends'' was due for the [[Game Boy Advance]], but was cancelled. Leaked prototypes show a significant amount of graphical and story changes that barely resemble the world built up in the previous titles. As Delphine Software no longer exist, the chances of a true sequel are slim.
+
===Levels===
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=320|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Planet Titan
 +
| screenshot=Flashback MD PlanetTitan.png
 +
| desc=Conrad awakens in the artificial jungle of the planet Titan with no memory of the events that brought him there. He finds a Holocube containing a message recorded by his past self, telling him to meet his friend Ian in New Washington. Conrad helps a wounded man teleport away and finds an old man who sells him an anti-gravity belt that he uses to take him to New Washington.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=New Washington
 +
| screenshot=Flashback, Stage 2.png
 +
| desc=Conrad meets Ian in New Washington, who uses a regenerator to restore his memories. Afterward, Conrad is determined to return to Earth. Ian tells him that the only way he can afford a ticket to Earth is to win one in ''Death Tower'', a game show in which contestants fight to the death, and false papers are required for a pass. To pay for the forged papers, Conrad takes a series of risky jobs in the city. There are five missions: to retrieve and deliver a parcel, to escort a VIP through a hazardous restricted area, to hunt and kill a fugitive replicant, to replace a damaged circuit in a malfunctioning computer terminal before the generator explodes, and to eliminate a gang of dangerous mutants. This is the longest and largest level in the game.
  
−
==Physical Scans==
+
The different areas of New Washington are named after the continents: Africa, Europa, Asia, and America. They are connected by a subway system. Conrad boards a subway car with {{A}} when standing next to it.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=''Death Tower''
 +
| screenshot=Flashback, Stage 3.png
 +
| desc=Conrad competes in the ''Death Tower'', a life-or-death game show where contestants battle replicants and avoid traps to try to win a ticket to Earth. He starts on the eighth floor and must fight his way to the first floor. This is a fast-paced, action-oriented level that departs from the slower, methodical gameplay of the rest of the game.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Earth
 +
| screenshot=Flashback, Stage 4.png
 +
| desc=Conrad reaches Earth. The Morphs have discovered his true identity and try to kill him. He takes a taxi to the Paradise Club, which conceals the Morphs' hideout. He spies on three Morphs through a ceiling vent. They discuss their plan to conquer Earth within hours. Conrad falls through the vent and is taken to a prison cell.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=The Secret Base of "Paradise"
 +
| screenshot=Flashback, Stage 5.png
 +
| desc=Conrad is captured, disarmed, and imprisoned by the Morphs, who intend to interrogate him later. He manages to escape and picks up a discarded alien gun. Exploring the facility, he discovers a teleporter, and uses it to transport himself to the Morphs' home planet.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=The Planet of Morphs 1
 +
| screenshot=Flashback, Stage 6.png
 +
| desc=On the alien homeworld, Conrad finds a human prisoner named Phillip Howard Clark. As he opens his prison, a Morph appears and executes Phillip. Dying, Phillip gives Conrad an Atomic Charge. Phillip's diary reveals he had planned to destroy the "Master Brain" that controls the aliens, located at the planet's core, but the "Auxiliary Brain" must be destroyed to open up the communication pathways to the Master Brain.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=The Planet of Morphs 2
 +
| screenshot=Flashback, Stage 7.png
 +
| desc=Conrad destroys the Auxiliary Brain and finds the Master Brain's pathway. As he arrives at a certain spot, he hears Phillip's voice, telling him that the atomic charge should be placed on a loose platform. After he does so, he throws a switch, awakening the brain to cause a tremor, which drops the charge towards the core. Conrad escapes to the hangar and takes a Morph's spacecraft out of the planet's atmosphere before it detonates. As he cannot navigate home, due to the Morphs' galaxy not being on any human star charts, he instead puts himself in suspended animation while his ship drifts into space.
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===Passwords===
 +
{{mainArticle|{{PAGENAME}}/Passwords}}
 +
 
 +
==History==
 +
===Development===
 +
The game was originally developed for the Mega Drive, but it was released first for the [[Amiga]]. According to developer Paul Cuisset, "The best version for me is the Mega Drive version. The game was created for this platform."{{ref|https://www.unseen64.net/2018/02/08/morphs-flashback-2-sega-mega-cd-cancelled/}}
 +
 
 +
===Release===
 +
Reportedly, a European [[Mega-CD]] version was rejected by [[Sega]], with the release being considered unviable for launch so long after the Mega Drive version{{magref|megapower|16|6}}.
 +
 
 +
===Legacy===
 +
The game was followed by a 3D sequel, ''[[Fade to Black]]'', an exclusive for the [[IBM PC]] and [[PlayStation]] which was also intended for release on the [[Sega Saturn]] but cancelled. Plans for a third game in the series called ''Flashback Legends'' was due for the [[Game Boy Advance]], but was cancelled. Leaked prototypes show a significant amount of graphical and story changes that barely resemble the world built up in the previous titles.{{ref|https://tcrf.net/Flashback_Legend}}
 +
 
 +
A remake of the game was developed by VectorCell, a company formed by original developer Paul Cuisset. It was released in 2013 for [[Windows]], [[Xbox 360]], and [[PlayStation 3]].
 +
 
 +
[[JoshProd]] ported both ''[[Flashback (Dreamcast)|Flashback]]'' and ''[[Fade to Black (Dreamcast)|Fade to Black: Flashback 2]]'' to the [[Dreamcast]] in 2017 and 2018 respectively.
 +
 
 +
In 2018, [[Microids]] re-released the game in both physical and digital formats as ''Flashback 25th Anniversary'' for the [[Nintendo Switch]], [[PlayStation 4]], and [[Xbox One]]. These versions of the game include graphics filters, remastered audio, and a "rewind" feature for gameplay.{{ref|https://www.gematsu.com/2018/08/flashback-25th-anniversary-coming-to-ps4-xbox-one-on-october-25}} Microids also released the game for [[Steam]] and [[GOG]] in 2018. The game was ported to the mobile platforms [[Android]] and [[iOS]] by SFL Interactive in 2019.
 +
 
 +
==Versions==
 +
In addition to the Amiga, Mega Drive, and Mega-CD versions, the game was ported to many other contemporary platforms: the [[3DO]], [[Acorn Archimedes]], [[Atari Jaguar]], [[CD-i]], [[IBM PC]], [[FM Towns]], [[Mac OS]], [[PC-9801]], and [[Super NES]]. The PC version was originally released on 3.5" floppy disk but later received a CD-ROM version based on the Mega-CD release.
 +
 
 +
The Sega versions of the game change the color of Conrad's shirt from red to white, presumably due to the more limited on-screen color palette.
 +
 
 +
Music only plays during specific cues in the Mega Drive version, but the Mega-CD version has a full, CD-quality soundtrack that plays during the entirety of each level. The Mega-CD version also uses voice acting for NPC dialogue and replaces the in-game cinematic cutscenes with pre-rendered [[full-motion video]]. It has different passwords. It is otherwise the same game. Other CD-ROM versions include the FMV sequences from the Mega-CD version but not the CD soundtrack or the in-game voice acting.
 +
 
 +
==Production credits==
 +
===Mega Drive version===
 +
{{multicol|
 +
{{creditstable|
 +
{{creditsheader|The FlashBack Team is...}}
 +
*'''Programmers:''' Benoist Aron, Philippe Chastel, Paul Cuisset, Frederic Savoir
 +
*'''Graphic Artists:''' Patrick Daher, Thierry Levastre, Denis Mercier, Thierry Perreau, Christian Robert, Fabrice Visserot
 +
*'''Hardware Engineer:''' Thierry Gaerthner
 +
*'''Story:''' Paul Cuisset
 +
*'''Level Design:''' Paul Cuisset, Patrick Daher, Denis Mercier, Frederic Savoir, Fabrice Visserot
 +
*'''Music:''' Jean Baudlot, Fabrice Visserot
 +
*'''Sound fx:''' Benoist Aron, Philippe Chastel, Paul Cuisset, Fabrice Visserot
 +
*'''Actors:''' Benoist Aron, Patrick Daher, Thierry Levastre, Denis Mercier, Thierry Perreau, Christian Robert, Fabrice Visserot
 +
*'''Video directors:''' Patrick Daher, Thierry Perreau, Fabrice Visserot
 +
*'''Video Co-directors:''' Thierry Levastre, Denis Mercier, Christian Robert
 +
*'''Video sfx:''' Paul Cuisset, Thierry Perreau, Fabrice Visserot
 +
*'''Testers:''' Phil Bradley, Patricia Cuisset, Simon Hadlington, Daniel Llewellyn, Jean-Pierre Luck, Martin Smith
 +
*'''Many thanks to...:''' Lori Christensen, Patricia Cuisset, Anne-Marie Joassim, Jean-Pierre Luck, Marc Minier
 +
*'''Special Credits to...:''' [[Cross Products]] for the [[SNASM]] development system., [[Sega of America]] for [[GEMS]] sound tool.
 +
*'''Directed by:''' Paul Cuisset
 +
*'''Produced by:''' [[Delphine Software]] / [[US Gold]]
 +
:'''(c) MCMXCIII'''
 +
| source=In-game credits
 +
| pdf=Flashback MD credits.pdf
 +
| console=MD
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===Mega-CD version===
 +
{{multicol|
 +
{{creditstable|
 +
{{creditsheader|Flashback SEGA-CD Team:}}
 +
*'''Programmer:''' Benoist ARON
 +
*'''3-D Graphics:''' Denis MERCIER
 +
*'''Additional 3-D Graphics:''' Thierry PERREAU
 +
*'''Musics composed by:''' Fabrice VISSEROT, Jean BAUDLOT, Marc MINIER, Patrick SIGWALT
 +
*'''Musics recorded & mixed by:''' Marc MINIER, Patrick SIGWALT
 +
*'''Additional Engineering:''' François COUSIN
 +
*'''In-Game Musics:''' Pierre-André ATHANE, Pascal PERINO
 +
*'''Photo Director:''' Alain RAMOND
 +
*'''Voices recorded & mixed by:''' Yves BOURVON
 +
*'''Voices:''' Randall PRICE, Bruce BENINGTON-PORTER, Joe MAY, Cary GUY, Lori CHRISTENSEN, Olivier TOUSSAINT, Manone THUMIAH, Anne-Marie JOASSIM
 +
*'''Testers:''' Dan LLEWELLYN, Jason SHELDON, Richard HOLDSWORTH, Brian SCHORR, Thomas MARX, Mike SCHMITT
 +
*'''Art Director:''' Denis MERCIER
 +
*'''Project Manager:''' Benoist ARON
 +
*'''Directed by:''' Paul CUISSET
 +
*'''Music digitally recorded and mixed at:''' DELPHINE Studios, PARIS.
 +
{{creditsheader|Flashback GENESIS Team:}}
 +
*'''Programmers:''' Benoist Aron, Philippe CHASTEL, Paul CUISSET, Frederic SAVOIR
 +
*'''Graphic Artists:''' Patrick DAHER, Thierry LEVASTRE, Denis MERCIER, Thierry PERREAU, Christian ROBERT, Fabrice VISSEROT
 +
*'''Hardware Engineer:''' Thierry GAERTHNER
 +
*'''Story:''' Paul CUISSET
 +
*'''Level Design:''' Paul CUISSET, Patrick DAHER, Denis MERCIER, Frederic SAVOIR, Fabrice VISSEROT
 +
*'''Testers:''' Phil BRADLEY, Patricia CUISSET, Simon HADLINGTON, Daniel LLEWELLYN, Jean-Pierre LUCK, Martin SMITH
 +
<br>
 +
*'''Many Thanks to:''' Lori CHRISTENSEN, Patricia CUISSET, Anne-Marie JOASSIM, Jean-Pierre LUCK, Henri-Paul CARVALAT
 +
*'''Supervised for [[U.S. Gold]] by:''' Stuart HIBBERT
 +
*'''Produced by:''' [[Delphine Software International]] and [[U.S. Gold]] ©MCMXCIV
 +
:'''© MCMXCIV'''
 +
| source=In-game credits
 +
| pdf=Flashback MCD credits.pdf
 +
| console=MCD
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
{{hr}}
 +
{{creditstable|
 +
*'''Product Manager:''' [[Peter Loeb]]
 +
*'''Associate Product Manager:''' [[John Garner]]
 +
*'''Product Specialist:''' [[Nemer Velasquez]]
 +
*'''Manual Designed by:''' [[Carol Ann Hanshaw]]
 +
| console=MCD
 +
| source=US manual
 +
| pdf=Flashback mcd us manual.pdf
 +
| pdfpage=30
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==Magazine articles==
 +
{{mainArticle|{{PAGENAME}}/Magazine articles}}
 +
 
 +
==Promotional material==
 +
{{mainArticle|{{PAGENAME}}/Promotional material}}
 +
 
 +
==Physical scans==
 +
===Mega Drive version===
 
{{ratings
 
{{ratings
−
| consolesplus={{MD}} 96
+
| icon=MD
−
| egm={{MCD}} 75
+
| gamesmaster=93
−
| gamepower={{MD}} 94
+
| gamesmaster_source={{magref|gamesmaster|7|78}}
−
| joypad={{MD}} 96
+
| sfm=93
−
| megaforce={{MD}} 97
+
| sfm_source={{magref|sfm|1|89}}
−
| playerone={{MD}} 96
 
−
| sfsw={{MD}} 96
 
 
}}
 
}}
−
===Mega Drive Version===
 
 
{{Scanbox
 
{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Mega Drive
 +
| region=JP
 +
| cover=Flashback md jp cover.jpg
 +
| cart=Flashback md jp cart.jpg
 +
| carttop=Flashback MD JP CartTop.jpg
 +
| manual=Flashback MD JP Manual.pdf
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Mega Drive
 
| console=Mega Drive
 
| region=US
 
| region=US
−
| front=Flashback MD US Box.jpg
+
| cover=Flashback MD US Box.jpg
 
| cart=Flashback MD US Cart.jpg
 
| cart=Flashback MD US Cart.jpg
 +
| manual=Flashback MD US Manual.pdf
 +
| item1=Flashback MD US pcb.jpg
 +
| item1name=PCB
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Mega Drive
 +
| region=EU
 +
| cover=Flashback MD EU Box.jpg
 +
| cart=Flashback MD EU Cart.jpg
 
| manual=
 
| manual=
 +
| item1=Flashback MD EU pcb.jpg
 +
| item1name=PCB
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Mega Drive
 +
| region=FR
 +
| manual=Flashback MD FR Manual.pdf
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Mega Drive
 +
| region=FR (Blister pack)
 +
| front=Flashback MD FR blister front.jpg
 +
| back=Flashback MD FR blister back.jpg
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Mega Drive
 +
| region=PT
 +
| cover=Flashback MD PT cover.jpg
 +
| cart=
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Mega Drive
 +
| region=SE rental (HENT orange)
 +
| cover=Flashback MD SE rental cover.jpg
 +
| cart=
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Mega Drive
 
| console=Mega Drive
−
| region=EU
+
| region=AU
−
| front=Flashback MD EU Box.jpg
+
| cover=
 
| cart=
 
| cart=
−
| manual=
 
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Mega Drive
 
| console=Mega Drive
−
| region=JP
+
| region=BR
−
| front=Flashback md jp cover.jpg
+
| cover=Flashback md br cover.jpg
−
| cart=Flashback md jp cart.jpg
+
| cart=Flashback MD BR Cart.jpg
−
| manual=
+
| manual=Flashback md br manual.pdf
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
===Mega CD Version===
+
===Mega-CD version===
 +
{{ratings|MCD}}
 
{{Scanbox
 
{{Scanbox
−
| console=Mega Drive
+
| console=Mega-CD
−
| region=
+
| region=US
 
| front=Flashback MCD US Box Front.jpg
 
| front=Flashback MCD US Box Front.jpg
 
| back=Flashback MCD US Box Back.jpg
 
| back=Flashback MCD US Box Back.jpg
−
| spinemissing=yes
+
| disc=Flashback mcd us disc.jpg
−
| cart=
+
| manual=Flashback mcd us manual.pdf
−
| manual=
+
}}
 +
 
 +
==Technical information==
 +
{{mainArticle|{{PAGENAME}}/Technical information}}
 +
===ROM dump status===
 +
{{romtable|
 +
{{rom|MD|sha1=bce40031f6adab48670c8a2d73e42f3a3dcba97c|md5=111e1694facbe6879640ccf83040cd20|crc32=23a9616d|size=1.5MB|date=1993-01-20{{intref|Flashback/Hidden content#Build date}}|source=Cartridge (US)|comments=|quality=good|prototype=}}
 +
{{rom|MD|sha1=225b405274d39541e07488fdd33de8f854624bf1|md5=55977f8786715847ba2061708e49beeb|crc32=33cd2b65|size=1.5MB|date=1993-01|source=Cartridge (US)|comments=|quality=good|prototype=}}
 +
{{rom|MD|sha1=31372b2c056eacb747de0a706de3899d224f2c92|md5=cef0031bd4612df7d4eac6bd71f7648d|crc32=6f311c83|size=1.5MB|date=1993-01-20{{intref|Flashback/Hidden content#Build date}}|source=Cartridge (EU)|comments=|quality=good|prototype=}}
 +
{{rom|MD|sha1=5082180974a125b5f9c01c96410c0fdbfb707d2b|md5=9a445d5b0d1cd873ce743743b8faec31|crc32=b790e3b4|size=1.5MB|date=1993-01-20{{intref|Flashback/Hidden content#Build date}}|source=Cartridge (JP)|comments=|quality=good|prototype=}}
 +
{{rom|MD|sha1=3c0b25e090d0c1167714e1a7346a289ffb808b49|md5=048c86fc053b8e3231d1644d744206b4|crc32=82095cb6|size=2MB|date=1992-09-18|source=EPROM cartridge|comments=|quality=|prototype=yes|protoname=Mega Drive prototype; 1992-09-18}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
[[Category:1993 Mega Drive Games]]
+
==References==
−
[[Category:Mega Drive Games]]
+
{{NECRetro|italics=yes}}
−
[[Category:Mega Drive Action Games]]
+
<references/>
−
[[Category:1994 Mega CD Games]]
+
 
−
[[Category:Mega CD Games]]
+
{{FlashbackOmni}}
−
[[Category:Mega CD Action Games]]
+
{{Flashback}}
−
[[Category:Sega Channel Games]]
+
 
 +
[[Category:Sega Channel games]]

Revision as of 17:47, 28 September 2024

For the Sega Dreamcast game, see Flashback (Dreamcast).

n/a

  • Sega Mega Drive
    NTSC-U/PAL
  • Sega Mega Drive
    NTSC-J
  • Mega-CD

Flashback Title.png

Flashback MD JP TitleScreen.png

Flashback MCD US Title.png

Flashback
System(s): Sega Mega Drive, Sega Mega-CD
Publisher: U.S. Gold
Sega Mega Drive
Sunsoft (JP)
Sega Mega-CD
Sega of America
Developer:
Distributor:
Sega Mega Drive
Ecofilmes (PT)
Sega Mega Drive
Tec Toy (BR)
Original system(s): Amiga
Sound driver:
Sega Mega Drive
GEMS
Genre: Action[1][2]

















Number of players: 1
Official in-game languages:
Sega Mega Drive
  • English
  • Français
  • 日本語
    • Sega Mega-CD
  • English
    • Release Date RRP Code
    Sega Mega Drive
    JP     		¥8,0008,000 T-15083
    Sega Mega Drive
    US     		$64.9564.95[4] T-79066
    Sega Mega Drive
    EU     		79066-50
    Sega Mega Drive
    DE     		DM 129.95129.95[9] 79066-50
    Sega Mega Drive
    PT     		MD79066
    Sega Mega Drive
    UK     		£39.9939.99[7][8] 79066-50
    Sega Mega Drive
    SE
    (Rental)
    Sega Mega Drive
    AU
    Sega Mega Drive
    BR     		045070
    Sega Mega-CD
    US     		4448
    Videogame Rating Council: MA-13
    Non-Sega versions

    Flashback (フラッシュバック), known in the US as Flashback: The Quest for Identity, is a game developed by Delphine Software International and published by U.S. Gold. It is a cinematic platformer inspired by Prince of Persia and Delphine's own Another World.

    Arguably Delphine Software's greatest work, the game was well received for its fluid, rotoscoped animations and stealth-like gameplay. Though it was originally developed for the Sega Mega Drive, it was first released for the Commodore Amiga in 1992. The Mega Drive release followed in 1993, and a Mega-CD version was released in 1994 in North America, with a planned European release[11] getting cancelled.

    Story

    In the year 2142, intelligence agent Conrad B. Hart discovers that shapeshifting aliens known as Morphs have infiltrated human society. He records a message to himself, but before he can warn anyone else, he is captured and his memory erased. He later escapes, but crash-lands his vehicle in a jungle, where the gameplay begins as he drops his recorded message.

    The North American Mega Drive and Mega-CD versions include a comic in their instruction manuals, created by Marvel, that covers the events preceding the game.

    Gameplay

    Flashback is a cinematic platform game in which the player controls Conrad B. Hart. Having escaped from aliens, Conrad finds himself in the jungles of the planet Titan with his memory erased. He must recover his memory and save Earth from an alien attack. Each level spans a large number of non-scrolling screens, nearly all of which feature multiple levels of altitude, requiring Conrad to jump, grab onto ledges, climb, use elevators, and drop onto lower levels. As Conrad progresses through the game's seven levels, he is increasingly presented with spatial puzzles, requiring the player to discover how to guide him toward his destination. Late in the game, Conrad receives a teleportation device, and he is able to progress by throwing the device and teleporting into otherwise unreachable areas.

    Conrad walks or turns around with Left and Right. He runs with HOLD ALeft or Right. He crouches with Down and jumps with Up. If there is a ledge near him, he grabs it automatically when jumping. If the ledge is below him, he can hang off of it with HOLD ADown when facing away from it (and drops off it when the player releases A or pulls himself back up with Up). He can hop over a gap or an object in front of him (such as a tripwire or mine) with HOLD AUp. When running, he can leap with Up or roll along the ground with Down. He can roll while crouched with Down-left or Down-right. He can control elevators with HOLD AUp or Down.

    Conrad also carries a pistol with unlimited ammunition. He draws his gun (or puts it away) with C and fires it with A (or pistol whips enemies in melee range). He cannot run or jump while holding his pistol, and he stays crouched when the player presses Down until he stands up with Up and rolls with Left or Right. Conrad finds and collects numerous items over the course of his journey. He picks up objects with A. The player can open the item inventory by pausing the game with  START  to select an item. After selecting an item, Conrad can use it or give it to someone with B. For items that are used by placing them (such as Stones or the Teleport Receiver), he throws the item with B when standing or drops it in place with B when crouching.

    Conrad has a force shield that absorbs four shots before needing recharging, acting as his health. He has a period of momentary invulnerability after being hit. If he takes damage when he has no more shield points remaining, he dies. Shield points can be restored at energy generators found in levels. Some hazards, such as disintegrators or electric floors, can kill him instantly (but he can run or jump over electric floors). The game ends if he dies, but the player can continue from the beginning of the level or the last save point. The player can see the number of shield points remaining by selecting the shield item in the inventory. Conrad can also find a portable force field with unlimited use, which can act as a temporary barrier to block enemies' shots. Conrad exhibits realistic human running speed and jumping ability, as well as realistic weakness (for example, he dies if he falls from too great a height).

    There are three difficulty levels (Easy, Normal, and Expert). The game uses passwords for continuing (with different passwords for each difficulty level).

    Actions

    Sometimes an icon appears when Conrad is standing in a particular spot, which indicates an action that can be performed there if the player presses A (or presses B if the action involves using an item).

    Flashback, Actions.png
    		 Take
    Pick up an item and place it in the inventory. The inventory can be opened with  START .
    Flashback, Actions.png
    		 Talk
    Talk to a person.
    Flashback, Actions.png
    		 Look
    Inspect an object or read a map.
    Flashback, Actions.png
    		 Activate
    Presses a button to perform an action such as opening a door, calling an elevator, or saving at a checkpoint.
    Flashback, Actions.png
    		 Recharge
    Restores Conrad's shield points or cartridge.
    Flashback, Actions.png
    		 Use
    Inserts an appropriate item, such as a key card or a cartridge, or gives an item to someone.

    Items

    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Shield
    A protective shield that protects Conrad from multiple hits of damage. It is always active and does not need to be selected to use it, though the number of remaining shield points can be viewed by selecting it in the inventory.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Gun
    A firearm, which can be used to kill enemies. It has unlimited ammunition. Conrad draws his gun (or puts it away) with C and fires it with A. It is not necessary to select it from the inventory to use it.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Credits
    A form of currency. Some NPCs provide Conrad with items in exchange for credits.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Holocube
    The Holocube contains a holographic message recorded by Conrad to his future self. Found in the Planet Titan level.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Magnetic Cartridge
    The cartridge can be filled at an Energy Generator and deposited in a Cartridge Lock to create a bridge. Found in the Planet Titan level.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Stone
    Stones can be used to activate objects such as tripwires. It can be picked up again after it is placed.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Teleporter
    An injured man requests Conrad to bring him a Teleporter to teleport to safety. He leaves an ID Card behind. Found in the Planet Titan level.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Key Card
    Some switches can only be activated using a Key Card.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 ID Card
    An identity card that can be used as a key.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Force Field
    A barrier that flashes for a moment and shields Conrad from projectiles. Given to Conrad by Ian in the New Washington level.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Fuse
    Used to repair a switch that calls a lift. Found in the New Washington level.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Map
    A subway map for New Washington. Given to Conrad by an NPC in the New Washington level.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Work Permit
    Used at the Job Center terminals to accept a mission. Missions award credits when completed. Given to Conrad by an NPC in the New Washington level.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Parcel
    Must be retrieved by Conrad to complete his first mission in New Washington.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Replicant Photo
    A photo of a replicant who must be assassinated by Conrad in one of his New Washington missions.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Terminal Card
    Used to fix the generator in one of Conrad's New Washington missions.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Time
    Shows the time remaining before the generator explodes in one of Conrad's New Washington missions.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Papers
    Purchased by Conrad for 1,500 credits in New Washington to travel to the Cyber Tower.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Teleport Receiver
    The Teleport Receiver can be placed or thrown anywhere. Conrad can then use the Teleport Remote Control to teleport himself to the position of the Teleport Receiver. It can be picked up again after it is placed. Found in the Secret Base of "Paradise" level.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Teleport Remote Control
    After placing the Teleport Receiver, Conrad can teleport himself to its position using the Teleport Remote Control. Found in the Secret Base of "Paradise" level.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Mechanical Mouse
    A robotic mouse that moves back and forth along the ground once placed (with Down+B). It can be used to set off tripwires. It can be picked up again after it is placed. Found in the first Planet of Morphs level.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Exploding Mouse
    Like the Mechanical Mouse, it moves along the ground autonomously, but it explodes when it is touched. It cannot be picked up again after it is placed. Found in the second Planet of Morphs level.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Diary
    The Diary contains information on the alien homeworld's defenses. Found in the first Planet of Morphs level.
    Flashback, Items.png
    		 Atomic Charge
    Used by Conrad to blow up the alien homeworld in the final level. Found in the first Planet of Morphs level.

    Objects

    Flashback, Objects.png
    		 Switch
    Activating a switch does various things including opening doors. Some switches are activated with A, but others require selecting a Key Card item from the inventory and using it with B.
    Flashback, Objects.png
    		 Energy Generator
    The player can recharge the Shield or Magnetic Cartridge items by selecting them from the inventory and using them on the Energy Generator with B.
    Flashback, Objects.png
    		 Tripwire
    Walking past a tripwire does various things, similar to activating a switch, such as opening a door or summoning a lift. They can be hopped over with HOLD AUp or avoided with the Teleport Receiver.
    Flashback, Objects.png
    		 Save Point
    Saving the game at a Save Point creates a checkpoint where the player restarts if Conrad dies. Despite the terminology, the game does not use a battery backup.

    Levels

    Flashback MD PlanetTitan.png

    		Planet Titan
    Conrad awakens in the artificial jungle of the planet Titan with no memory of the events that brought him there. He finds a Holocube containing a message recorded by his past self, telling him to meet his friend Ian in New Washington. Conrad helps a wounded man teleport away and finds an old man who sells him an anti-gravity belt that he uses to take him to New Washington.

    Flashback, Stage 2.png

    		New Washington
    Conrad meets Ian in New Washington, who uses a regenerator to restore his memories. Afterward, Conrad is determined to return to Earth. Ian tells him that the only way he can afford a ticket to Earth is to win one in Death Tower, a game show in which contestants fight to the death, and false papers are required for a pass. To pay for the forged papers, Conrad takes a series of risky jobs in the city. There are five missions: to retrieve and deliver a parcel, to escort a VIP through a hazardous restricted area, to hunt and kill a fugitive replicant, to replace a damaged circuit in a malfunctioning computer terminal before the generator explodes, and to eliminate a gang of dangerous mutants. This is the longest and largest level in the game.

    The different areas of New Washington are named after the continents: Africa, Europa, Asia, and America. They are connected by a subway system. Conrad boards a subway car with A when standing next to it.

    Flashback, Stage 3.png

    		Death Tower
    Conrad competes in the Death Tower, a life-or-death game show where contestants battle replicants and avoid traps to try to win a ticket to Earth. He starts on the eighth floor and must fight his way to the first floor. This is a fast-paced, action-oriented level that departs from the slower, methodical gameplay of the rest of the game.

    Flashback, Stage 4.png

    		Earth
    Conrad reaches Earth. The Morphs have discovered his true identity and try to kill him. He takes a taxi to the Paradise Club, which conceals the Morphs' hideout. He spies on three Morphs through a ceiling vent. They discuss their plan to conquer Earth within hours. Conrad falls through the vent and is taken to a prison cell.

    Flashback, Stage 5.png

    		The Secret Base of "Paradise"
    Conrad is captured, disarmed, and imprisoned by the Morphs, who intend to interrogate him later. He manages to escape and picks up a discarded alien gun. Exploring the facility, he discovers a teleporter, and uses it to transport himself to the Morphs' home planet.

    Flashback, Stage 6.png

    		The Planet of Morphs 1
    On the alien homeworld, Conrad finds a human prisoner named Phillip Howard Clark. As he opens his prison, a Morph appears and executes Phillip. Dying, Phillip gives Conrad an Atomic Charge. Phillip's diary reveals he had planned to destroy the "Master Brain" that controls the aliens, located at the planet's core, but the "Auxiliary Brain" must be destroyed to open up the communication pathways to the Master Brain.

    Flashback, Stage 7.png

    		The Planet of Morphs 2
    Conrad destroys the Auxiliary Brain and finds the Master Brain's pathway. As he arrives at a certain spot, he hears Phillip's voice, telling him that the atomic charge should be placed on a loose platform. After he does so, he throws a switch, awakening the brain to cause a tremor, which drops the charge towards the core. Conrad escapes to the hangar and takes a Morph's spacecraft out of the planet's atmosphere before it detonates. As he cannot navigate home, due to the Morphs' galaxy not being on any human star charts, he instead puts himself in suspended animation while his ship drifts into space.

    Passwords

    Main article: Flashback/Passwords.

    History

    Development

    The game was originally developed for the Mega Drive, but it was released first for the Amiga. According to developer Paul Cuisset, "The best version for me is the Mega Drive version. The game was created for this platform."[12]

    Release

    Reportedly, a European Mega-CD version was rejected by Sega, with the release being considered unviable for launch so long after the Mega Drive version[13].

    Legacy

    The game was followed by a 3D sequel, Fade to Black, an exclusive for the IBM PC and PlayStation which was also intended for release on the Sega Saturn but cancelled. Plans for a third game in the series called Flashback Legends was due for the Game Boy Advance, but was cancelled. Leaked prototypes show a significant amount of graphical and story changes that barely resemble the world built up in the previous titles.[14]

    A remake of the game was developed by VectorCell, a company formed by original developer Paul Cuisset. It was released in 2013 for Windows, Xbox 360, and PlayStation 3.

    JoshProd ported both Flashback and Fade to Black: Flashback 2 to the Dreamcast in 2017 and 2018 respectively.

    In 2018, Microids re-released the game in both physical and digital formats as Flashback 25th Anniversary for the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One. These versions of the game include graphics filters, remastered audio, and a "rewind" feature for gameplay.[15] Microids also released the game for Steam and GOG in 2018. The game was ported to the mobile platforms Android and iOS by SFL Interactive in 2019.

    Versions

    In addition to the Amiga, Mega Drive, and Mega-CD versions, the game was ported to many other contemporary platforms: the 3DO, Acorn Archimedes, Atari Jaguar, CD-i, IBM PC, FM Towns, Mac OS, PC-9801, and Super NES. The PC version was originally released on 3.5" floppy disk but later received a CD-ROM version based on the Mega-CD release.

    The Sega versions of the game change the color of Conrad's shirt from red to white, presumably due to the more limited on-screen color palette.

    Music only plays during specific cues in the Mega Drive version, but the Mega-CD version has a full, CD-quality soundtrack that plays during the entirety of each level. The Mega-CD version also uses voice acting for NPC dialogue and replaces the in-game cinematic cutscenes with pre-rendered full-motion video. It has different passwords. It is otherwise the same game. Other CD-ROM versions include the FMV sequences from the Mega-CD version but not the CD soundtrack or the in-game voice acting.

    Production credits

    Mega Drive version

    The FlashBack Team is...
    • Programmers: Benoist Aron, Philippe Chastel, Paul Cuisset, Frederic Savoir
    • Graphic Artists: Patrick Daher, Thierry Levastre, Denis Mercier, Thierry Perreau, Christian Robert, Fabrice Visserot
    • Hardware Engineer: Thierry Gaerthner
    • Story: Paul Cuisset
    • Level Design: Paul Cuisset, Patrick Daher, Denis Mercier, Frederic Savoir, Fabrice Visserot
    • Music: Jean Baudlot, Fabrice Visserot
    • Sound fx: Benoist Aron, Philippe Chastel, Paul Cuisset, Fabrice Visserot
    • Actors: Benoist Aron, Patrick Daher, Thierry Levastre, Denis Mercier, Thierry Perreau, Christian Robert, Fabrice Visserot
    • Video directors: Patrick Daher, Thierry Perreau, Fabrice Visserot
    • Video Co-directors: Thierry Levastre, Denis Mercier, Christian Robert
    • Video sfx: Paul Cuisset, Thierry Perreau, Fabrice Visserot
    • Testers: Phil Bradley, Patricia Cuisset, Simon Hadlington, Daniel Llewellyn, Jean-Pierre Luck, Martin Smith
    • Many thanks to...: Lori Christensen, Patricia Cuisset, Anne-Marie Joassim, Jean-Pierre Luck, Marc Minier
    • Special Credits to...: Cross Products for the SNASM development system., Sega of America for GEMS sound tool.
    • Directed by: Paul Cuisset
    • Produced by: Delphine Software / US Gold
    (c) MCMXCIII
    Source:
    In-game credits
    Flashback MD credits.pdf
    [16]

    Mega-CD version

    Flashback SEGA-CD Team:
    • Programmer: Benoist ARON
    • 3-D Graphics: Denis MERCIER
    • Additional 3-D Graphics: Thierry PERREAU
    • Musics composed by: Fabrice VISSEROT, Jean BAUDLOT, Marc MINIER, Patrick SIGWALT
    • Musics recorded & mixed by: Marc MINIER, Patrick SIGWALT
    • Additional Engineering: François COUSIN
    • In-Game Musics: Pierre-André ATHANE, Pascal PERINO
    • Photo Director: Alain RAMOND
    • Voices recorded & mixed by: Yves BOURVON
    • Voices: Randall PRICE, Bruce BENINGTON-PORTER, Joe MAY, Cary GUY, Lori CHRISTENSEN, Olivier TOUSSAINT, Manone THUMIAH, Anne-Marie JOASSIM
    • Testers: Dan LLEWELLYN, Jason SHELDON, Richard HOLDSWORTH, Brian SCHORR, Thomas MARX, Mike SCHMITT
    • Art Director: Denis MERCIER
    • Project Manager: Benoist ARON
    • Directed by: Paul CUISSET
    • Music digitally recorded and mixed at: DELPHINE Studios, PARIS.
    Flashback GENESIS Team:
    • Programmers: Benoist Aron, Philippe CHASTEL, Paul CUISSET, Frederic SAVOIR
    • Graphic Artists: Patrick DAHER, Thierry LEVASTRE, Denis MERCIER, Thierry PERREAU, Christian ROBERT, Fabrice VISSEROT
    • Hardware Engineer: Thierry GAERTHNER
    • Story: Paul CUISSET
    • Level Design: Paul CUISSET, Patrick DAHER, Denis MERCIER, Frederic SAVOIR, Fabrice VISSEROT
    • Testers: Phil BRADLEY, Patricia CUISSET, Simon HADLINGTON, Daniel LLEWELLYN, Jean-Pierre LUCK, Martin SMITH


    © MCMXCIV
    Source:
    In-game credits
    Flashback MCD credits.pdf
    [17]
    Source:
    US manual
    Error creating thumbnail: /bin/bash: line 1: 3571196 Done '/usr/bin/gs' '-sDEVICE=jpeg' '-sOutputFile=-' '-dFirstPage=1' '-dLastPage=1' '-dSAFER' '-r150' '-dBATCH' '-dNOPAUSE' '-q' '/home/sonicret/domains/segaretro.org/public_html/images/a/a5/Flashback_mcd_us_manual.pdf' 3571197 Segmentation fault | '/usr/bin/convert' '-depth' '8' '-quality' '95' '-resize' '2197' '-' '/home/sonicret/domains/segaretro.org/public_html/images/temp/transform_f494ae37ea05.jpg'
    [18]


    Magazine articles

    Main article: Flashback/Magazine articles.

    Promotional material

    Main article: Flashback/Promotional material.

    Physical scans

    Mega Drive version

    Sega Retro Average 
    Publication Score Source
    93 [19]
    93 [20]
    Sega Mega Drive
    		 93
    Based on
    2 reviews
    Sega Retro Average 
    Publication Version Score
    1700 igr dlya Sega (RU)
    98
    		[21]
    Alaab Alcomputtar (SA)
    96
    		[22]
    Aktueller Software Markt (DE)
    92
    		[23]
    Beep! MegaDrive (JP) NTSC-J
    73
    		[24]
    Consoles + (FR)
    96
    		[25]
    Cool Gamer (RU)
    90
    		[26]
    Computer & Video Games (UK)
    94
    		[27]
    Digitiser (UK) PAL
    95
    		[28]
    Electronic Games (1992-1995) (US) NTSC-U
    91
    		[29]
    Electronic Gaming Monthly (US) NTSC-U
    88
    		[30]
    Entsiklopediya luchshikh igr Sega. Vypusk 1 (RU)
    90
    		[31]
    Entsiklopediya luchshikh igr Sega. Vypusk 6 (RU)
    70
    		[32]
    Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide (UK)
    93
    		[33]
    Game Power (IT) PAL
    94
    		[34]
    GamePro (US) NTSC-U
    100
    		[35]
    GamesMaster (UK)
    94
    		[36]
    Game Informer (US) NTSC-U
    92
    		[37]
    Game Informer (US) NTSC-U
    94
    		[38]
    Hippon Super (JP) NTSC-J
    60
    		[39]
    Joypad (FR)
    97
    		[40]
    Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming (UK) PAL
    90
    		[41]
    Mega (UK) PAL
    94
    		[42]
    Mega Action (UK) PAL
    92
    		[43]
    Megablast (DE)
    79
    		[44]
    Mega Force (FR)
    97
    		[45]
    Mega Fun (DE) NTSC-U
    87
    		[46]
    MegaTech (UK) PAL
    95
    		[47]
    Mean Machines Sega (UK) NTSC-U
    93
    		[48]
    Player One (FR)
    96
    		[49]
    Power Up! (UK)
    92
    		[50]
    Sega Magazin (DE)
    85
    		[9]
    Sega Power (UK) NTSC-U
    93
    		[51]
    Sega Pro (UK) PAL
    94
    		[52]
    Sega Zone (UK) PAL
    94
    		[53]
    Sega Force (SE)
    96
    		[54]
    Sega Force (UK) PAL
    93
    		[55]
    Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) NTSC-J
    84
    		[56]
    Supergame (BR)
    95
    		[57]
    Supergame (BR)
    90
    		[58]
    Supersonic (FR)
    93
    		[59]
    Tricks 16 bit (RU)
    86
    		[60]
    User (GR) PAL
    94
    		[61]
    Sega Mega Drive
    		 91
    Based on
    42 reviews

    Flashback

    Mega Drive, JP
    Flashback md jp cover.jpg
    Cover
    Flashback MD JP CartTop.jpg
    Flashback md jp cart.jpg
    Cart
    Mega Drive, US
    Flashback MD US Box.jpg
    Cover
    Flashback MD US Cart.jpg
    Cart
    Flashback MD US Manual.pdf
    Manual
    Flashback MD US pcb.jpg
    PCB
    Mega Drive, EU
    Flashback MD EU Box.jpg
    Cover
    Flashback MD EU Cart.jpg
    Cart
    Flashback MD EU pcb.jpg
    PCB
    Mega Drive, FR

    Flashback MD FR Manual.pdf
    Manual
    Mega Drive, FR (Blister pack)
    Flashback MD FR blister back.jpgFlashback MD FR blister front.jpg
    Cover
    Mega Drive, PT
    Flashback MD PT cover.jpg
    Cover
    Mega Drive, SE rental (HENT orange)
    Flashback MD SE rental cover.jpg
    Cover
    Mega Drive, AU

    Mega Drive, BR
    Flashback md br cover.jpg
    Cover
    Flashback MD BR Cart.jpg
    Cart
    Flashback md br manual.pdf
    Manual

    Mega-CD version

    Sega Retro Average 
    Publication Score Source
    {{{{{icon}}}|L}} Division by zero.
    Based on
    0 review
    Sega Retro Average 
    Publication Version Score
    Electronic Gaming Monthly (US) NTSC-U
    75
    		[62]
    GamePro (US) NTSC-U
    83
    		[63]
    Next Generation (US) NTSC-U
    50
    		[64]
    Sega Mega-CD
    		 69
    Based on
    3 reviews

    Flashback

    Mega-CD, US
    Flashback MCD US Box Back.jpgFlashback MCD US Box Front.jpg
    Cover
    Flashback mcd us disc.jpg
    Disc
    Flashback mcd us manual.pdf
    Manual

    Technical information

    Main article: Flashback/Technical information.

    ROM dump status

    System Hash Size Build Date Source Comments
    Sega Mega Drive
    ✔
    CRC32 23a9616d
    MD5 111e1694facbe6879640ccf83040cd20
    SHA-1 bce40031f6adab48670c8a2d73e42f3a3dcba97c
    		1.5MB 1993-01-20[65] Cartridge (US)
    Sega Mega Drive
    ✔
    CRC32 33cd2b65
    MD5 55977f8786715847ba2061708e49beeb
    SHA-1 225b405274d39541e07488fdd33de8f854624bf1
    		1.5MB 1993-01 Cartridge (US)
    Sega Mega Drive
    ✔
    CRC32 6f311c83
    MD5 cef0031bd4612df7d4eac6bd71f7648d
    SHA-1 31372b2c056eacb747de0a706de3899d224f2c92
    		1.5MB 1993-01-20[65] Cartridge (EU)
    Sega Mega Drive
    ✔
    CRC32 b790e3b4
    MD5 9a445d5b0d1cd873ce743743b8faec31
    SHA-1 5082180974a125b5f9c01c96410c0fdbfb707d2b
    		1.5MB 1993-01-20[65] Cartridge (JP)
    Sega Mega Drive
     ?
    CRC32 82095cb6
    MD5 048c86fc053b8e3231d1644d744206b4
    SHA-1 3c0b25e090d0c1167714e1a7346a289ffb808b49
    		2MB 1992-09-18 EPROM cartridge Page

    References

    Necretro-round.svg
    NEC Retro has more information related to Flashback
    1. ↑ File:Flashback md jp cover.jpg
    2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 https://sega.jp/history/hard/megadrive/software_l.html (Wayback Machine: 2020-07-02 23:21)
    3. ↑ Electronic Gaming Monthly, "February 1993" (US; 199x-xx-xx), page 69
    4. ↑ VideoGames & Computer Entertainment, "March 1993" (US; 1993-0x-xx), page 32
    5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 Mega, "January 1994" (UK; 1993-12-16), page 26
    6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming, "June 1993" (UK; 1993-04-29), page 15
    7. ↑ Computer & Video Games, "November 1994" (UK; 1994-10-15), page 71
    8. ↑ Mega, "June 1993" (UK; 1993-05-20), page 53
    9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 Sega Magazin, "September/Oktober 1993" (DE; 1993-09-01), page 66
    10. ↑ Game Players, "Vol. 7 No. 10 October 1994" (US; 1994-xx-xx), page 12
    11. ↑ Sega Pro, "June 1994" (UK; 1994-05-24), page 10
    12. ↑ https://www.unseen64.net/2018/02/08/morphs-flashback-2-sega-mega-cd-cancelled/
    13. ↑ Mega Power, "November 1994" (UK; 1994-10-20), page 6
    14. ↑ The Cutting Room Floor: Flashback Legend
    15. ↑ https://www.gematsu.com/2018/08/flashback-25th-anniversary-coming-to-ps4-xbox-one-on-october-25
    16. ↑ File:Flashback MD credits.pdf
    17. ↑ File:Flashback MCD credits.pdf
    18. ↑ File:Flashback mcd us manual.pdf, page 30
    19. ↑ GamesMaster, "July 1993" (UK; 1993-06-17), page 78
    20. ↑ Sega Force Mega, "August 1993" (UK; 1993-06-24), page 89
    21. ↑ 1700 igr dlya Sega, "" (RU; 2001-xx-xx), page 82
    22. ↑ Alaab Alcomputtar, "" (SA; 1995-08-xx), page 72
    23. ↑ Aktueller Software Markt, "September 1993" (DE; 1993-08-09), page 139
    24. ↑ Beep! MegaDrive, "January 1994" (JP; 1993-12-08), page 26
    25. ↑ Consoles +, "Mars 1993" (FR; 1993-0x-xx), page 56
    26. ↑ Cool Gamer, "9" (RU; 2002-10-13), page 86
    27. ↑ Computer & Video Games, "May 1993" (UK; 1993-04-15), page 34
    28. ↑ Digitiser (UK) (1993-05-21)
    29. ↑ Electronic Games (1992-1995), "March 1995" (US; 1995-0x-xx), page 63
    30. ↑ Electronic Gaming Monthly, "May 1993" (US; 1993-xx-xx), page 24
    31. ↑ Entsiklopediya luchshikh igr Sega. Vypusk 1, "" (RU; 1999-xx-xx), page 41
    32. ↑ Entsiklopediya luchshikh igr Sega. Vypusk 6, "" (RU; 2001-xx-xx), page 24
    33. ↑ Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide, "" (UK; 1993-11-18), page 46
    34. ↑ Game Power, "Luigio/Agosto 1993" (IT; 1993-0x-xx), page 41
    35. ↑ GamePro, "February 1993" (US; 1993-xx-xx), page 38
    36. ↑ GamesMaster (UK) "Series 2, episode 9" (1992-11-26, 24:00) (+6:48)
    37. ↑ Game Informer, "March/April 1993" (US; 1993-0x-xx), page 6
    38. ↑ Game Informer, "May 1998" (US; 1998-0x-xx), page 66
    39. ↑ Hippon Super, "January 1994" (JP; 1993-12-03), page 40
    40. ↑ Joypad, "Mars 1993" (FR; 1993-0x-xx), page 72
    41. ↑ Sega Mega Drive Advanced Gaming, "June 1993" (UK; 1993-04-29), page 14
    42. ↑ Mega, "June 1993" (UK; 1993-05-20), page 52
    43. ↑ Mega Action, "July 1993" (UK; 1993-06-17), page 22
    44. ↑ Megablast, "4/93" (DE; 1993-09-29), page 40
    45. ↑ Mega Force, "Mars 1993" (FR; 1993-0x-xx), page 94
    46. ↑ Mega Fun, "06/93" (DE; 1993-05-19), page 26
    47. ↑ MegaTech, "May 1993" (UK; 1993-04-23), page 56
    48. ↑ Mean Machines Sega, "April 1993" (UK; 1993-03-26), page 18
    49. ↑ Player One, "Mars/Avril 1993" (FR; 1993-03-10), page 64
    50. ↑ Power Up!, "Saturday, June 05, 1993" (UK; 1993-06-05), page 1
    51. ↑ Sega Power, "June 1993" (UK; 1993-05-06), page 32
    52. ↑ Sega Pro, "June 1993" (UK; 1993-05-13), page 42
    53. ↑ Sega Zone, "June 1993" (UK; 1993-05-xx), page 36
    54. ↑ Sega Force, "4/93" (SE; 1993-07-08), page 6
    55. ↑ Sega Force, "June 1993" (UK; 1993-05-06), page 32
    56. ↑ Sega Saturn Magazine, "September 1995" (JP; 1995-08-08), page 85
    57. ↑ Supergame, "Abril 1993" (BR; 1993-04-xx), page 6
    58. ↑ Supergame, "Maio 1993" (BR; 1993-05-xx), page 20
    59. ↑ Supersonic, "Mars 1993" (FR; 1993-xx-xx), page 10
    60. ↑ Tricks 16 bit, "Tricks Sega Gold 800 igr" (RU; 1998-03-20), page 14
    61. ↑ User, "Septémvrios 1993" (GR; 1993-0x-xx), page 26
    62. ↑ Electronic Gaming Monthly, "December 1994" (US; 1994-xx-xx), page 46
    63. ↑ GamePro, "January 1995" (US; 199x-xx-xx), page 68
    64. ↑ Next Generation, "April 1995" (US; 1995-03-21), page 95
    65. ↑ 65.0 65.1 65.2 Flashback/Hidden content#Build date


    Flashback

    Flashback Title.png

    Main page | Comparisons | Maps | Passwords | Hidden content | Bugs | Magazine articles | Video coverage | Reception | Promotional material | Region coding | Technical information | Bootlegs


    Sega Mega-CD
    Demos: Flashback (1995)


    Sega Mega Drive
    Prototypes: 1992-09-18



    Flashback games for Sega systems
    Sega Mega Drive
    		 Flashback (1993)
    Sega Mega-CD
    		 Flashback (1994) | Morphs: Flashback 2 (unreleased)
    Sega Saturn
    		 Fade to Black (unreleased)
    Sega Dreamcast
    		 Flashback (2017) | Fade to Black (2018)
    Retrieved from "https://segaretro.org/index.php?title=Flashback&oldid=1011376"