Difference between revisions of "Silpheed"

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| publisher={{company|[[Sega]]|region=US, Europe}}, {{company|[[Game Arts]]|region=Japan}}
 
| publisher={{company|[[Sega]]|region=US, Europe}}, {{company|[[Game Arts]]|region=Japan}}
 
| developer=[[Game Arts]]
 
| developer=[[Game Arts]]
 +
| support={{company|[[Mecano Associates]]|role=music, sound}}, {{company|[[Twofive]]|role=audio recording}}
 
| system=[[Sega Mega-CD]]
 
| system=[[Sega Mega-CD]]
 
| sounddriver=
 
| sounddriver=
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| mcd_code_de=4423
 
| mcd_code_de=4423
 
| mcd_rrp_de=99.95{{magref|segamagazin|1|21}}
 
| mcd_rrp_de=99.95{{magref|segamagazin|1|21}}
−
| mcd_date_uk=1993-09{{magref|megapower|2|51}}
+
| mcd_date_pt=1993
 +
| mcd_code_pt=
 +
| mcd_date_uk=1993-11{{magref|segapro|25|31}}<!--1993-09{{magref|megapower|2|51}}-->
 
| mcd_code_uk=4423
 
| mcd_code_uk=4423
 
| mcd_rrp_uk=49.99{{magref|segamaguk|1|102}}{{magref|cvg|161|21}}<!--44.99{{magref|megapower|7|80}}-->
 
| mcd_rrp_uk=49.99{{magref|segamaguk|1|102}}{{magref|cvg|161|21}}<!--44.99{{magref|megapower|7|80}}-->
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| esra=12
 
| esra=12
 
}}
 
}}
−
{{stub}}'''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' (シルフィード) is a [[Sega Mega-CD]] vertical shoot-'em-up developed by [[Game Arts]]. First published in Japan by [[Game Arts]] themselves in July 1993, it was later brought to the United States and Europe by [[Sega]] in October 1993. A remake of the developer's 1988 [[nec:NEC PC-8801|NEC PC-8801]] shoot-'em-up ''[[wikipedia:Silpheed|Silpheed]]'', the game features pre-rendered polygonal backgrounds presented in [[full-motion video]], an updated soundtrack, enhanced colors, and different levels.
+
'''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' (シルフィード) is a [[Sega Mega-CD]] vertical shoot-'em-up developed by [[Game Arts]]. First published in Japan by [[Game Arts]] themselves in July 1993, it was later brought to the United States and Europe by [[Sega]] in October 1993. A remake of the developer's 1988 [[nec:NEC PC-8801|NEC PC-8801]] shoot-'em-up ''[[nec:Silpheed|Silpheed]]'', the game features pre-rendered polygonal backgrounds presented in [[full-motion video]], an updated soundtrack, enhanced colors, and different levels.
 +
 
 +
Silpheed is the name of the spacecraft that the player controls, likely derived from the famous ballet, ''[[wikipedia:La Sylphide|La Sylphide]]''. A "sylph" is an air spirit.
 +
 
 +
==Story==
 +
{{ScreenThumb|Silpheed, Zakalite.png|width=200|Zakalite}}
 +
In the year 3076, terrorists led by a man named Zakalite hack into the Grayzon System, the mother computer of Earth, granting them control over all the space weaponry of the solar system. They begin attacking colony planets with unmanned fleets. The Earth's only hope is a small fleet outside the computer's reach, which has been provided with a squadron of SA-77 Silpheed dogfighters.
 +
 
 +
==Gameplay==
 +
{{ScreenThumb|Silpheed, Cutscene.png|width=200|SA-77 Silpheed}}
 +
''Silpheed'' is a vertically scrolling shooter. It is presented at an oblique camera angle, with enemies and other objects becoming smaller as they move towards the top of the screen. The Silpheed can freely move about the screen with the D-Pad. In each level, the player is tasked with destroying various enemies while avoiding their projectiles. {{A}} and {{C}} fire the ship's main weapons, and {{B}} fires the ship's optional weapon. The backgrounds are pre-rendered full-motion video but can contain collision zones, corresponding to objects such as asteroids and towers, that the player must avoid.
 +
 
 +
Main weapons have unlimited ammunition, but optional weapons are dependent on energy. Energy is gained by destroying enemies or completing stages and lost by using optional weapons or taking damage. The player gains a new main weapon with every 40,000 points earned. Weapons can be attached to either side of the Silpheed. The player starts the game with no optional weapon but gains one with every 50,000 points earned. After the first stage, the player can choose which weapons to equip before each mission (with the exception of the final mission, which continues with the weapon selections from the prior mission).
 +
 
 +
The Silpheed has a shield that can withstand six hits. There are items to replenish the shield. When the shield is depleted, the played is warned, "No Shield." If the player is hit again, the player encounters a "Weapon Failure" and can only continue firing on a single weapon. If the player is hit again, the ship suffers an "Engine Failure" and has impaired movement speed. The next hit destroys the Silpheed. The player can continue the game from the title screen if there are still continues remaining.
 +
 
 +
===Weapons===
 +
{{ScreenThumb|Silpheed, Weapon Select.png|width=200|Weapon selection}}
 +
 
 +
====Main====
 +
New main weapons are given every 40,000 points earned. Weapons are gained and equipped separately for each side of the ship.
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=50|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Forward Beam
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Silpheed, Weapons.png | 2 | crop_width=15 | crop_height=15 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Shoots beam straight ahead. Initially equipped.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Wide Beam
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Silpheed, Weapons.png | 2 | crop_width=15 | crop_height=15 | crop_x=15 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Shoots beam that scans downward 120 degrees from a forward position.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Phalanx Beam
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Silpheed, Weapons.png | 2 | crop_width=15 | crop_height=15 | crop_x=30 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Shoots forked beams in V-shape that cover a wider area than the standard beam.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Auto-Aiming
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Silpheed, Weapons.png | 2 | crop_width=15 | crop_height=15 | crop_x=45 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Shoots beam that automatically locks on to targets.
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
====Optional====
 +
New optional weapons are given every 50,000 points earned. The player cannot choose the same optional weapon for two missions in a row.
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=50|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Graviton Bomb
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Silpheed, Weapons.png | 2 | crop_width=15 | crop_height=15 | crop_x=60 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Explodes in front of the Silpheed in a wide pattern and shields from enemy fire.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=E.M. Defense System
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Silpheed, Weapons.png | 2 | crop_width=15 | crop_height=15 | crop_x=75 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Surrounds the Silpheed in a barrier that blocks three enemy hits. Changes color from yellow to orange to red as it loses strength.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Photon Torpedo
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Silpheed, Weapons.png | 2 | crop_width=15 | crop_height=15 | crop_x=90 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Fires in eight directions simultaneously, automatically tracks targets.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Anti-Matter Bomb
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Silpheed, Weapons.png | 2 | crop_width=15 | crop_height=15 | crop_x=105 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Explodes and does area damage.
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===Items===
 +
Power-up items are found in item carriers, which are red diamond-shaped pods. Shoot them open and then fly over the item to collect it.
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=50|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Bonus 1
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Silpheed, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=0 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Awards the player up to 5,000 points.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Bonus 2
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Silpheed, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=16 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Awards the player between 5,000 and 10,000 points.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=1 Repair
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Silpheed, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=32 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Restores 1 segment of the shield gauge.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=2 Repair
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Silpheed, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=48 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Restores 2 segments of the shield gauge.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=3 Repair
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Silpheed, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=64 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Restores 3 segments of the shield gauge.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=All Repair
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Silpheed, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=80 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Fully replenishes the shields.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Option Energy Up
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Silpheed, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=96 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Boosts the energy of the optional weapon.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Destroy
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Silpheed, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=112 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Destroys all enemies on screen.
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Invincible
 +
| sprite={{sprite | Silpheed, Items.png | 2 | crop_width=16 | crop_height=16 | crop_x=128 | crop_y=0}}
 +
| desc=Grants the Silpheed temporary invulnerability.
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===Stages===
 +
{{InfoTable|imagewidths=320|
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Stage 1
 +
| screenshot=Silpheed, Stage 1-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Silpheed, Stage 1-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Silpheed, Stage 1-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Stage 2
 +
| screenshot=Silpheed, Stage 2-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Silpheed, Stage 2-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Silpheed, Stage 2-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Stage 3
 +
| screenshot=Silpheed, Stage 3-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Silpheed, Stage 3-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Silpheed, Stage 3-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Stage 4
 +
| screenshot=Silpheed, Stage 4-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Silpheed, Stage 4-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Silpheed, Stage 4-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Stage 5
 +
| screenshot=Silpheed, Stage 5-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Silpheed, Stage 5-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Silpheed, Stage 5-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Stage 6
 +
| screenshot=Silpheed, Stage 6-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Silpheed, Stage 6-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Silpheed, Stage 6-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Stage 7
 +
| screenshot=Silpheed, Stage 7-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Silpheed, Stage 7-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Silpheed, Stage 7-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Stage 8
 +
| screenshot=Silpheed, Stage 8-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Silpheed, Stage 8-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Silpheed, Stage 8-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Stage 9
 +
| screenshot=Silpheed, Stage 9-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Silpheed, Stage 9-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Silpheed, Stage 9-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Stage 10
 +
| screenshot=Silpheed, Stage 10-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Silpheed, Stage 10-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Silpheed, Stage 10-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Stage 11
 +
| screenshot=Silpheed, Stage 11-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Silpheed, Stage 11-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Silpheed, Stage 11-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
{{InfoRow
 +
| title=Stage 12
 +
| screenshot=Silpheed, Stage 12-1.png
 +
| screenshot2=Silpheed, Stage 12-2.png
 +
| screenshot3=Silpheed, Stage 12-3.png
 +
| tabs=yes
 +
| desc=
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==History==
 +
===Development===
 +
During development, the game's Western release was known under the working title of '''''Silpheed VR'''''.{{magref|egm|44|121}}{{magref|gamepro|45|122}}
  
−
==Full-motion video==
 
 
As the game is constantly streaming [[full-motion video]] data from the disc, it is reliant on an optimally-functioning [[Sega Mega-CD]], particularly in regards to its CD drive. With many original units approaching 30 years of age, games which use streaming can begin to encounter read errors; ''Silpheed'' remains one of the more notable and critically-acclaimed games to use full-motion video streaming technology, and any read errors are generally remedied by a maintenance of the CD drive hardware.
 
As the game is constantly streaming [[full-motion video]] data from the disc, it is reliant on an optimally-functioning [[Sega Mega-CD]], particularly in regards to its CD drive. With many original units approaching 30 years of age, games which use streaming can begin to encounter read errors; ''Silpheed'' remains one of the more notable and critically-acclaimed games to use full-motion video streaming technology, and any read errors are generally remedied by a maintenance of the CD drive hardware.
 +
 +
===Legacy===
 +
The game was included in all versions of the [[Mega Drive Mini 2]] in 2022.
 +
 +
A sequel was released, ''Silpheed: The Lost Planet'', for the [[PlayStation 2]] in 2000. It was developed by [[Game Arts]] alongside [[Treasure]].
 +
 +
A 3D space combat simulator game titled ''Project Sylpheed'' was released by Square Enix in 2006 for the [[Xbox 360]]. It is considered a spiritual successor to the ''Silpheed'' games. In 2012, a game called ''Silpheed Alternative: Menace from Beyond the Stars'' was developed by Game Arts for [[Android]], which is also considered  a spiritual successor. Like ''Project Sylpheed'', it is a fully three-dimensional game.
  
 
==Production credits==
 
==Production credits==
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{{creditstable|
 
{{creditstable|
 
*'''Director:''' Takeshi Miyaji
 
*'''Director:''' Takeshi Miyaji
−
*'''Executive Producer:''' Youichi Miyaji, Mitsuhiro Mazda, Toshiyuki Uchida
+
*'''Executive Producer:''' [[Youichi Miyaji]], Mitsuhiro Mazda, Toshiyuki Uchida
 
*'''Main Programmer:''' Kenichi Hamada
 
*'''Main Programmer:''' Kenichi Hamada
 
*'''Polygon Character:''' Takahiro Okano
 
*'''Polygon Character:''' Takahiro Okano
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*'''Mapping Data Producer:''' Kazuyuki Ohhata
 
*'''Mapping Data Producer:''' Kazuyuki Ohhata
 
*'''Technical Adviser:''' Masakuni Mitshuhashi
 
*'''Technical Adviser:''' Masakuni Mitshuhashi
−
*'''Music Compose / Sound Effects:''' Ari Kamijo, Kenichi Kunishima, [[Tomoyuki Shimada]], Kazuya Takahashi, Akio Matsuda
+
*'''Music Compose / Sound Effects:''' Ari Kamijo, Kenichi Kunishima, [[Tomoyuki Shimada]], [[Kazuya Takahashi]], Akio Matsuda
 
*'''Music:''' [[Mecano Associates]], Fumihito Kasatani, Mariko Satou, Youko Sonoda, Mamoru Ishimoda, Takahiro Nishi
 
*'''Music:''' [[Mecano Associates]], Fumihito Kasatani, Mariko Satou, Youko Sonoda, Mamoru Ishimoda, Takahiro Nishi
−
*'''Recording:''' Two Five, [[Isao Mizoguchi]], [[Noriyuki Iwadare]]
+
*'''Recording:''' [[Two Five]], [[Isao Mizoguchi]], [[Noriyuki Iwadare]]
 
*'''Art Work:''' Mariko Uemura
 
*'''Art Work:''' Mariko Uemura
 
*'''Manual Editor:''' Masayuki Shimada
 
*'''Manual Editor:''' Masayuki Shimada
Line 62: Line 292:
 
*'''Special Thanks:''' NASA, Astronomical Society Of Japan
 
*'''Special Thanks:''' NASA, Astronomical Society Of Japan
 
| source=In-game credits (JP)
 
| source=In-game credits (JP)
−
| pdf=Silpheed_MCD_JP_SSCredits.pdf
+
| pdf=Silpheed MCD JP SSCredits.pdf
 
| console=MCD
 
| console=MCD
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 +
==Digital manuals==
 +
<gallery>
 +
Silpheed MCD US MDMini2 manual.pdf|Mega Drive Mini 2 US manual
 +
Silpheed MCD EU MDMini2 manual.pdf|Mega Drive Mini 2 EU manual
 +
Silpheed MCD JP MDMini2 manual.pdf|Mega Drive Mini 2 JP manual
 +
</gallery>
  
 
==Magazine articles==
 
==Magazine articles==
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==Physical scans==
 
==Physical scans==
−
<section begin="MCD_ratings" />{{ratings
+
{{ratings
 
| icon=MCD
 
| icon=MCD
−
| asm=92
 
−
| bemega=85
 
−
| bemega_source={{magref|bemega|1993-09|22|printpage=20}}
 
−
| bemega_r=89
 
−
| bemega_r_source={{magref|ssmjp|1995-09|84|printpage=82}}
 
−
| consolesplus=93
 
−
| consolesplus_source={{num|24|page=128-130}}
 
−
| cvg=85
 
−
| cvg_source={{magref|cvg|143|44|printpage=44-46}} <!-- Oct 1993 edition misprinted on cover as issue 142 -->
 
−
| cvg_1=88
 
−
| cvg_source_1={{magref|cvg|151|109|printpage=109/111}}
 
 
| dragon=100
 
| dragon=100
−
| edge=70
 
−
| edge_source={{magref|edge|1|84}}
 
−
| egm=75
 
−
| egm_source={{magref|egm|51|42}}
 
−
| famitsu=78
 
−
| famitsu_source={{num|242}}, ''[https://www.famitsu.com/cominy/?m=pc&a=page_h_title&title_id=1866]''
 
−
| gamepro=78
 
−
| gamepro_source={{magref|gamepro|53|105|printpage=104/105}}
 
 
| gameplayers=84
 
| gameplayers=84
 
| gamesmaster=75
 
| gamesmaster=75
 
| gamesmaster_source={{num|10|page=78/79}}
 
| gamesmaster_source={{num|10|page=78/79}}
−
| hippons=75
+
}}
−
| hippons_source={{num|1993-09|page=46|pdf=}}
 
−
| joypad=96
 
−
| joypad_source={{magref|joypad|23|82|printpage=82-84}}
 
−
| manic=80
 
−
| maniac_source={{magref|maniac|1|36|printpage=36}}
 
−
| mega=89
 
−
| mega_source={{num|13|page=28/29}}
 
−
| megaaction=89
 
−
| megaaction_source={{num|6|page=40/41}}
 
−
| megapower=50
 
−
| megapower_source={{num|2|page=48-51}}
 
−
| megatech=94
 
−
| megatech_source={{num|21|page=58-61}}
 
−
| mms=90
 
−
| mms_source={{magref|mms|12|51|printpage=48-51}}
 
−
| playerone=93
 
−
| playerone_source={{num|37|page=102-104}}
 
−
| segamaguk=85
 
−
| segamaguk_source={{magref|segamaguk|1|102|printpage=102/103}}
 
−
| segapower=83
 
−
| segapower_source={{num|47|page=54/55}}
 
−
| segapro=69
 
−
| segapro_source={{num|24|page=46/47}}
 
−
| sfm=73
 
−
| sfm_source={{magref|sfm|5|38|printpage=38-40}}
 
−
| stc=85
 
−
| stc_source={{num|15|page=11}}
 
−
| sfuk=87
 
−
}}<section end="MCD_ratings" />
 
 
{{Scanbox
 
{{Scanbox
 
| console=Mega-CD
 
| console=Mega-CD
Line 159: Line 348:
 
| region=FR (Blister pack)
 
| region=FR (Blister pack)
 
| front=Silpheed MCD FR blister front.jpg
 
| front=Silpheed MCD FR blister front.jpg
 +
}}{{Scanbox
 +
| console=Mega-CD
 +
| region=PT
 +
| front=
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Mega-CD
 
| console=Mega-CD
Line 166: Line 359:
 
| spinemissing=yes
 
| spinemissing=yes
 
| disc=
 
| disc=
 +
| manual=SlipheedMCDBRManual.pdf
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
}}{{Scanbox
 
| console=Mega-CD
 
| console=Mega-CD
Line 178: Line 372:
  
 
==Technical information==
 
==Technical information==
−
===ROM dump status===
+
{{mainArticle|{{PAGENAME}}/Technical information}}
−
{{romtable|
 
−
{{rom|MCD|sha1= |md5= |crc32= |size=556,135,104|date=|source=CD (EU)|comments=4423|quality=good|prototype=}}
 
−
{{rom|MCD|sha1= |md5= |crc32= |size=562,892,400|date=|source=CD (JP)|comments=T-45054|quality=good|prototype=}}
 
−
{{rom|MCD|sha1= |md5= |crc32= |size=562,953,552|date=|source=CD (US)|comments=4423|quality=good|prototype=}}
 
−
}}
 
  
 
==References==
 
==References==
 +
{{NECRetro|italics=yes}}
 
<references/>
 
<references/>
 +
 +
{{SilpheedOmni}}
 +
[[Category:Mega Drive Mini 2 games]]

Revision as of 07:47, 24 June 2024

n/a

Silpheed title.png

Silpheed
System(s): Sega Mega-CD
Publisher: Sega (US, Europe), Game Arts (Japan)
Developer:
Supporting companies:
Genre: Shooting[1][2]

















Number of players: 1
Release Date RRP Code
Sega Mega-CD
JP 		¥8,800 (9,064)8,800e[3] T-45054
Sega Mega-CD
US 		$49.9949.99[4][6] 4423
Videogame Rating Council: GA
Sega Mega-CD
EU 		4423
Sega Mega-CD
DE 		DM 99.9599.95[8] 4423
Sega Mega-CD
PT
Sega Mega-CD
UK 		£49.9949.99[10][11] 4423
Sega Mega-CD
AU 		$119.95119.95[12]
Sega Mega-CD
BR 		063210
Sega Mega-CD
KR 		GD93013JT

Silpheed (シルフィード) is a Sega Mega-CD vertical shoot-'em-up developed by Game Arts. First published in Japan by Game Arts themselves in July 1993, it was later brought to the United States and Europe by Sega in October 1993. A remake of the developer's 1988 NEC PC-8801 shoot-'em-up Silpheed, the game features pre-rendered polygonal backgrounds presented in full-motion video, an updated soundtrack, enhanced colors, and different levels.

Silpheed is the name of the spacecraft that the player controls, likely derived from the famous ballet, La Sylphide. A "sylph" is an air spirit.

Story

Silpheed, Zakalite.png

Zakalite

In the year 3076, terrorists led by a man named Zakalite hack into the Grayzon System, the mother computer of Earth, granting them control over all the space weaponry of the solar system. They begin attacking colony planets with unmanned fleets. The Earth's only hope is a small fleet outside the computer's reach, which has been provided with a squadron of SA-77 Silpheed dogfighters.

Gameplay

Silpheed, Cutscene.png

SA-77 Silpheed

Silpheed is a vertically scrolling shooter. It is presented at an oblique camera angle, with enemies and other objects becoming smaller as they move towards the top of the screen. The Silpheed can freely move about the screen with the D-Pad. In each level, the player is tasked with destroying various enemies while avoiding their projectiles. A and C fire the ship's main weapons, and B fires the ship's optional weapon. The backgrounds are pre-rendered full-motion video but can contain collision zones, corresponding to objects such as asteroids and towers, that the player must avoid.

Main weapons have unlimited ammunition, but optional weapons are dependent on energy. Energy is gained by destroying enemies or completing stages and lost by using optional weapons or taking damage. The player gains a new main weapon with every 40,000 points earned. Weapons can be attached to either side of the Silpheed. The player starts the game with no optional weapon but gains one with every 50,000 points earned. After the first stage, the player can choose which weapons to equip before each mission (with the exception of the final mission, which continues with the weapon selections from the prior mission).

The Silpheed has a shield that can withstand six hits. There are items to replenish the shield. When the shield is depleted, the played is warned, "No Shield." If the player is hit again, the player encounters a "Weapon Failure" and can only continue firing on a single weapon. If the player is hit again, the ship suffers an "Engine Failure" and has impaired movement speed. The next hit destroys the Silpheed. The player can continue the game from the title screen if there are still continues remaining.

Weapons

Silpheed, Weapon Select.png

Weapon selection

Main

New main weapons are given every 40,000 points earned. Weapons are gained and equipped separately for each side of the ship.

Silpheed, Weapons.png
 Forward Beam
Shoots beam straight ahead. Initially equipped.
Silpheed, Weapons.png
 Wide Beam
Shoots beam that scans downward 120 degrees from a forward position.
Silpheed, Weapons.png
 Phalanx Beam
Shoots forked beams in V-shape that cover a wider area than the standard beam.
Silpheed, Weapons.png
 Auto-Aiming
Shoots beam that automatically locks on to targets.

Optional

New optional weapons are given every 50,000 points earned. The player cannot choose the same optional weapon for two missions in a row.

Silpheed, Weapons.png
 Graviton Bomb
Explodes in front of the Silpheed in a wide pattern and shields from enemy fire.
Silpheed, Weapons.png
 E.M. Defense System
Surrounds the Silpheed in a barrier that blocks three enemy hits. Changes color from yellow to orange to red as it loses strength.
Silpheed, Weapons.png
 Photon Torpedo
Fires in eight directions simultaneously, automatically tracks targets.
Silpheed, Weapons.png
 Anti-Matter Bomb
Explodes and does area damage.

Items

Power-up items are found in item carriers, which are red diamond-shaped pods. Shoot them open and then fly over the item to collect it.

Silpheed, Items.png
 Bonus 1
Awards the player up to 5,000 points.
Silpheed, Items.png
 Bonus 2
Awards the player between 5,000 and 10,000 points.
Silpheed, Items.png
 1 Repair
Restores 1 segment of the shield gauge.
Silpheed, Items.png
 2 Repair
Restores 2 segments of the shield gauge.
Silpheed, Items.png
 3 Repair
Restores 3 segments of the shield gauge.
Silpheed, Items.png
 All Repair
Fully replenishes the shields.
Silpheed, Items.png
 Option Energy Up
Boosts the energy of the optional weapon.
Silpheed, Items.png
 Destroy
Destroys all enemies on screen.
Silpheed, Items.png
 Invincible
Grants the Silpheed temporary invulnerability.

Stages

Silpheed, Stage 1-1.png

Silpheed, Stage 1-2.png

Silpheed, Stage 1-3.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 1-1.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 1-2.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 1-3.png

Stage 1

Silpheed, Stage 2-1.png

Silpheed, Stage 2-2.png

Silpheed, Stage 2-3.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 2-1.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 2-2.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 2-3.png

Stage 2

Silpheed, Stage 3-1.png

Silpheed, Stage 3-2.png

Silpheed, Stage 3-3.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 3-1.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 3-2.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 3-3.png

Stage 3

Silpheed, Stage 4-1.png

Silpheed, Stage 4-2.png

Silpheed, Stage 4-3.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 4-1.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 4-2.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 4-3.png

Stage 4

Silpheed, Stage 5-1.png

Silpheed, Stage 5-2.png

Silpheed, Stage 5-3.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 5-1.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 5-2.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 5-3.png

Stage 5

Silpheed, Stage 6-1.png

Silpheed, Stage 6-2.png

Silpheed, Stage 6-3.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 6-1.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 6-2.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 6-3.png

Stage 6

Silpheed, Stage 7-1.png

Silpheed, Stage 7-2.png

Silpheed, Stage 7-3.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 7-1.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 7-2.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 7-3.png

Stage 7

Silpheed, Stage 8-1.png

Silpheed, Stage 8-2.png

Silpheed, Stage 8-3.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 8-1.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 8-2.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 8-3.png

Stage 8

Silpheed, Stage 9-1.png

Silpheed, Stage 9-2.png

Silpheed, Stage 9-3.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 9-1.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 9-2.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 9-3.png

Stage 9

Silpheed, Stage 10-1.png

Silpheed, Stage 10-2.png

Silpheed, Stage 10-3.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 10-1.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 10-2.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 10-3.png

Stage 10

Silpheed, Stage 11-1.png

Silpheed, Stage 11-2.png

Silpheed, Stage 11-3.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 11-1.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 11-2.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 11-3.png

Stage 11

Silpheed, Stage 12-1.png

Silpheed, Stage 12-2.png

Silpheed, Stage 12-3.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 12-1.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 12-2.png

  • Silpheed, Stage 12-3.png

Stage 12

History

Development

During development, the game's Western release was known under the working title of Silpheed VR.[13][14]

As the game is constantly streaming full-motion video data from the disc, it is reliant on an optimally-functioning Sega Mega-CD, particularly in regards to its CD drive. With many original units approaching 30 years of age, games which use streaming can begin to encounter read errors; Silpheed remains one of the more notable and critically-acclaimed games to use full-motion video streaming technology, and any read errors are generally remedied by a maintenance of the CD drive hardware.

Legacy

The game was included in all versions of the Mega Drive Mini 2 in 2022.

A sequel was released, Silpheed: The Lost Planet, for the PlayStation 2 in 2000. It was developed by Game Arts alongside Treasure.

A 3D space combat simulator game titled Project Sylpheed was released by Square Enix in 2006 for the Xbox 360. It is considered a spiritual successor to the Silpheed games. In 2012, a game called Silpheed Alternative: Menace from Beyond the Stars was developed by Game Arts for Android, which is also considered a spiritual successor. Like Project Sylpheed, it is a fully three-dimensional game.

Production credits

  • Director: Takeshi Miyaji
  • Executive Producer: Youichi Miyaji, Mitsuhiro Mazda, Toshiyuki Uchida
  • Main Programmer: Kenichi Hamada
  • Polygon Character: Takahiro Okano
  • Background CG Producer: Takeshi Miyaji, Takahiro Okano, Hidenobu Takahashi, Kenichi Hamada, Akio Matsuda
  • Graphics: Hidenobu Takahashi, Masahiko Koyama
  • Demoproduce / Visual Director: IKUSABUNE, Toshio Akashi
  • Background Mechanic Design / 3D Modeling / Visual Director: Wataru Yanagawa
  • Silpheed Mechanical Design: Kouichiro Yonemura
  • Mapping Data Producer: Kazuyuki Ohhata
  • Technical Adviser: Masakuni Mitshuhashi
  • Music Compose / Sound Effects: Ari Kamijo, Kenichi Kunishima, Tomoyuki Shimada, Kazuya Takahashi, Akio Matsuda
  • Music: Mecano Associates, Fumihito Kasatani, Mariko Satou, Youko Sonoda, Mamoru Ishimoda, Takahiro Nishi
  • Recording: Two Five, Isao Mizoguchi, Noriyuki Iwadare
  • Art Work: Mariko Uemura
  • Manual Editor: Masayuki Shimada
  • Package Art: Jun Suemi
  • Marketing: Toshiyuki Uchida, Masayuki Shimada, Akira Kashiwagi
  • Sales: Rika Honma, Yumi Sugaya
  • Special Thanks: NASA, Astronomical Society Of Japan
Source:
In-game credits (JP)
Silpheed MCD JP SSCredits.pdf
[15]

Digital manuals

  • Mega Drive Mini 2 US manual

  • Mega Drive Mini 2 EU manual

  • Mega Drive Mini 2 JP manual

Magazine articles

Main article: Silpheed/Magazine articles.

Promotional material

Main article: Silpheed/Promotional material.

Physical scans

Sega Retro Average 
Publication Score Source
100
84
75 №10, p78/79
Sega Mega-CD
 86
Based on
3 reviews
Sega Retro Average 
Publication Version Score
Aktueller Software Markt (DE)
92
[16]
Beep! MegaDrive (JP) NTSC-J
85
[17]
Consoles + (FR)
93
[18]
Computer & Video Games (UK)
85
[19]
Computer & Video Games (UK)
88
[20]
Edge (UK)
70
[21]
Electronic Gaming Monthly (US) NTSC-U
75
[22]
Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide (UK)
90
[23]
Famitsu (JP) NTSC-J
78
[24]
GameFan (US) NTSC-U
98
[25]
Game Power (IT) NTSC
92
[26]
GamePro (US) NTSC-U
78
[4]
Gamers (DE)
67
[27]
Game Informer (US) NTSC-U
83
[28]
Hippon Super (JP) NTSC-J
75
[29]
Hyper (AU)
85
[30]
Joypad (FR) NTSC-J
96
[31]
Joypad (HU)
83
[32]
MAN!AC (DE)
80
[33]
Mega (UK) NTSC-J
89
[34]
Mega Action (UK) NTSC-J
89
[35]
Mega Force (FR)
92
[36]
Mega Fun (DE) NTSC-J
73
[37]
Mega Power (UK) PAL
50
[38]
MegaTech (UK) NTSC
94
[39]
Mean Machines Sega (UK) NTSC-J
90
[40]
Player One (FR)
93
[41]
Power Play (DE)
70
[42]
Sega Magazin (DE)
81
[43]
Sega Magazine (UK) PAL
85
[10]
Sega Power (UK) NTSC-J
83
[44]
Sega Pro (UK) NTSC-J
69
[45]
Sega Zone (UK) NTSC-J
90
[46]
Sega Force Mega (UK) NTSC-J
73
[47]
Sega Force (SE)
87
[48]
Sega Saturn Magazine (JP) NTSC-J
89
[49]
Sonic the Comic (UK) PAL
85
[50]
Todo Sega (ES)
92
[51]
Video Games (DE) PAL
72
[52]
VideoGames (US) NTSC-U
90
[6]
Sega Mega-CD
 83
Based on
40 reviews

Silpheed

Mega-CD, JP
Silpheed MCD JP Box Back.jpgSilpheed MCD JP Box Front.jpg
Cover
Silpheed MCD JP Spinecard.jpg
Spinecard
Silpheed MCD JP Disc.jpg
Disc
Silpheed MCD JAP manual.pdf
Manual
Mega-CD, US
Silpheed MCD US Box Back.jpgSilpheed MCD US Box Front.jpg
Cover
Silpheed MCD US Disc.jpg
Disc
Silpheed mcd us manual.pdf
Manual
Mega-CD, EU
Silpheed MCD EU Box Back.jpgSilpheed MCD EU Box Front.jpg
Cover
Silpheed MCD EU spinecard.jpg
Spinecard
Silpheed MCD EU Disc.jpg
Disc
Silipheed MCD EU Manual.jpg
Manual
Mega-CD, FR (Blister pack)
Silpheed MCD FR blister front.jpg
Cover
Mega-CD, PT

Mega-CD, BR
Silpheed MCD BR Box Back.jpgNospine.pngSilpheed MCD BR Box Front.jpg
Cover
SlipheedMCDBRManual.pdf
Manual
Mega-CD, KR
Silpheed MCD KR Box Front.jpg
Cover

Technical information

Main article: Silpheed/Technical information.

References

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NEC Retro has more information related to Silpheed
  1. ↑ File:Silpheed MCD JP Box Back.jpg
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 https://sega.jp/fb/segahard/mcd/soft_licensee.html (Wayback Machine: 2019-06-10 17:56)
  3. ↑ Beep! MegaDrive, "July 1993" (JP; 1993-06-08), page 10
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 GamePro, "December 1993" (US; 1993-xx-xx), page 105
  5. ↑ https://groups.google.com/g/rec.games.video.sega/c/vroem-0-Ouc/m/Noa_wp3NF1sJ
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 VideoGames, "December 1993" (US; 1993-1x-xx), page 68
  7. ↑ Mega Power, "September 1993" (UK; 1993-08-19), page 51
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 Sega Magazin, "September/Oktober 1993" (DE; 1993-09-01), page 21
  9. ↑ Sega Pro, "November 1993" (UK; 1993-10-14), page 31
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 Sega Magazine, "January 1994" (UK; 1993-12-10), page 102
  11. ↑ Computer & Video Games, "April 1995" (UK; 1995-03-15), page 21
  12. ↑ Megazone, "January 1994" (AU; 1993-12-29), page 29
  13. ↑ Electronic Gaming Monthly, "March 1993" (US; 1993-xx-xx), page 121
  14. ↑ GamePro, "April 1993" (US; 1993-xx-xx), page 122
  15. ↑ File:Silpheed MCD JP SSCredits.pdf
  16. ↑ Aktueller Software Markt, "März 1994" (DE; 1994-02-07), page 104
  17. ↑ Beep! MegaDrive, "September 1993" (JP; 1993-08-07), page 22
  18. ↑ Consoles +, "Octobre 1993" (FR; 1993-xx-xx), page 128
  19. ↑ Computer & Video Games, "October 1993" (UK; 1993-09-15), page 44
  20. ↑ Computer & Video Games, "June 1994" (UK; 1994-05-15), page 109
  21. ↑ Edge, "October 1993" (UK; 1993-08-19), page 84
  22. ↑ Electronic Gaming Monthly, "October 1993" (US; 1993-xx-xx), page 42
  23. ↑ Mean Machines: The Essential Sega Guide, "" (UK; 1993-11-18), page 125
  24. ↑ Famitsu, "1993-08-06" (JP; 1993-07-23), page 41
  25. ↑ GameFan, "Volume 1, Issue 10: September 1993" (US; 1993-xx-xx), page 14
  26. ↑ Game Power, "Ottobre 1993" (IT; 1993-xx-xx), page 45
  27. ↑ Gamers, "Oktober/November 1993" (DE; 1993-09-24), page 80
  28. ↑ Game Informer, "January/February 1994" (US; 199x-xx-xx), page 42
  29. ↑ Hippon Super, "September 1993" (JP; 1993-08-03), page 46
  30. ↑ Hyper, "January 1994" (AU; 199x-xx-xx), page 58
  31. ↑ Joypad, "Septembre 1993" (FR; 1993-0x-xx), page 82
  32. ↑ Joypad, "3/1994" (HU; 1994-xx-xx), page 12
  33. ↑ MAN!AC, "11/93" (DE; 1993-xx-xx), page 36
  34. ↑ Mega, "October 1993" (UK; 1993-09-16), page 28
  35. ↑ Mega Action, "November 1993" (UK; 1993-10-07), page 40
  36. ↑ Mega Force, "Décembre 1993" (FR; 1993-12-10), page 84
  37. ↑ Mega Fun, "10/93" (DE; 1993-09-22), page 34
  38. ↑ Mega Power, "September 1993" (UK; 1993-08-19), page 48
  39. ↑ MegaTech, "September 1993" (UK; 1993-08-20), page 58
  40. ↑ Mean Machines Sega, "October 1993" (UK; 1993-08-28), page 51
  41. ↑ Player One, "Décembre 1993" (FR; 1993-1x-xx), page 102
  42. ↑ Power Play, "11/93" (DE; 1993-10-13), page 138
  43. ↑ Sega Magazin, "September/Oktober 1993" (DE; 1993-09-01), page 20
  44. ↑ Sega Power, "October 1993" (UK; 1993-09-02), page 54
  45. ↑ Sega Pro, "October 1993" (UK; 1993-09-09), page 46
  46. ↑ Sega Zone, "September 1993" (UK; 1993-08-xx), page 30
  47. ↑ Sega Force Mega, "November 1993" (UK; 1993-10-14), page 106
  48. ↑ Sega Force, "3/94" (SE; 1994-03-29), page 24
  49. ↑ Sega Saturn Magazine, "September 1995" (JP; 1995-08-08), page 84
  50. ↑ Sonic the Comic, "December 11th 1993" (UK; 1993-12-11), page 11
  51. ↑ Todo Sega, "Noviembre 1993" (ES; 1993-1x-xx), page 60
  52. ↑ Video Games, "10/93" (DE; 1993-09-29), page 112


Silpheed

Silpheed title.png

Main page | Hidden content | Magazine articles | Reception | Promotional material | Technical information


Books: Silpheed Koushiki Technical Guide Book (1993)
Sega Mega-CD
Demos: Silpheed Hibaihin (1993)

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