Summary
Steel Empire Chronicles is a classic shoot ‘em up game that has been re-released for the Nintendo Switch. Developed by Mebius and Starfish and published by Strictly Limited Games, Steel Empire Chronicles is set in a world where the Motorhead Empire dominates most of the globe. However, there is still hope in the Republic of Silverhead, and players take on the role of a lone pilot sent to save the day and restore peace and harmony to the world.
What sets Steel Empire Chronicles apart from other shoot ‘em up games is its visual style, which is displayed through a sepia-toned film newsreel. This style is complemented by made-up historical references that help to set the mood and immerse players in the game’s world.
In addition to the game itself, Strictly Limited Games has released two collector’s editions of Steel Empire Chronicles for the Nintendo Switch. The Limited Edition, priced at $39.99, features two cover variations that let fans choose between the Steel Empire Chronicles title sheet or the classic Over Horizon title sheet. Only 3,000 individually numbered copies will be made available for the Switch.
Steel Empire Chronicles – Physical Release
Steel Empire Chronicles is a classic shoot ‘em up game that has been re-released for the Nintendo Switch by Strictly Limited Games. Developed by Mebius and Starfish, Steel Empire Chronicles is set in a world where the Motorhead Empire dominates most of the globe. However, there is still hope in the Republic of Silverhead, and players take on the role of a lone pilot sent to save the day and restore peace and harmony to the world.
In this article, we will explore the world of Steel Empire Chronicles and Over Horizon, as well as the unique features of the Limited and Special Limited Editions. We will also delve into the shoot ‘em up genre, its history, sub-genres, and variations.
About Steel Empire Chronicles
Plot and Gameplay Mechanics
In Steel Empire Chronicles, players take on the role of a lone pilot sent to save the Republic of Silverhead from the Motorhead Empire. The game is a classic shoot ‘em up game, where players control a flying vehicle and shoot down enemies while avoiding obstacles and collecting power-ups.
What sets Steel Empire Chronicles apart from other shoot ‘em up games is its visual style. The game’s world is displayed through a sepia-toned film newsreel, which gives the game a unique and immersive atmosphere. The game’s narrative is filled with made-up historical references that help to set the mood and add depth to the game’s world.
Collector’s Editions
Strictly Limited Games has released two collector’s editions of Steel Empire Chronicles for the Nintendo Switch.
Limited Edition
The Limited Edition, priced at $39.99, features two cover variations that let fans choose between the Steel Empire Chronicles title sheet or the classic Over Horizon title sheet. Only 3,000 individually numbered copies will be made available for the Switch.
Compared to the standard edition, the Limited Edition offers fans the opportunity to own a physical copy of the game with exclusive cover art. The individually numbered copies also make it a must-have for collectors.
Special Limited Edition
The Special Limited Edition, priced at $59.99, comes with a unique collector’s edition box in the shape of a Mega Drive case. This edition includes several collectors’ items, including the original soundtrack, an artbook, and other items. Only 2,000 individually numbered copies will be made available for the Switch.
Compared to the Limited Edition, the Special Limited Edition is a premium collector’s item that includes exclusive physical items that are not available in any other edition. The Mega Drive case and original soundtrack make it a must-have for serious collectors.
In-depth Look at the Included Collector’s Items
The Limited and Special Limited Editions include several collector’s items that add value to the overall package.
Mega Drive Case
The Special Limited Edition includes a collector’s edition box in the shape of a Mega Drive case. The case is a replica of the classic Mega Drive console and is a must-have for retro gaming enthusiasts.
Original Soundtrack
The Limited and Special Limited Editions include the original soundtrack for Steel Empire Chronicles. The soundtrack features classic arcade-style music that adds to the overall experience of the game.
Artbook
The Special Limited Edition includes an artbook that features concept art and illustrations from the game. The artbook provides a behind-the-scenes look at the development of Steel Empire Chronicles and is a must-have for fans of the game.
Other Included Items
The Special Limited Edition also includes several other collector’s items, such as a sticker sheet and a poster. These items add value to the overall package and make it a must-have for collectors.
Over Horizon
Over Horizon is a shoot ‘em up game that was originally released in 1991 for the Famicom/NES. The game was created by the same developers as Steel Empire Chronicles and was originally only released in Japan and Germany.
Plot and Gameplay Mechanics
In Over Horizon, players control a spacecraft and must shoot down enemies while avoiding obstacles and collecting power-ups. The game features colorful graphics and a fast-paced gameplay style that is typical of the shoot ‘em up genre.
Comparison with Steel Empire Chronicles
While Steel Empire Chronicles and Over Horizon are both shoot ‘em up games, they differ in several key ways. Steel Empire Chronicles features a unique visual style that sets it apart from other games in the genre. Over Horizon, on the other hand, features colorful graphics that are typical of the shoot ‘em up genre.
The Shoot ‘em Up Genre
The shoot ‘em up genre is a sub-genre of action games that is characterized by fast-paced gameplay and a focus on shooting down enemies. The genre has evolved over the years, with new sub-genres and variations being introduced.
History and Evolution
The shoot ‘em up genre has a long history, dating back to the early days of arcade gaming. The genre has evolved over the years, with new games introducing new gameplay mechanics and sub-genres.
Influence on the Gaming Industry
The shoot ‘em up genre has had a significant influence on the gaming industry. Many popular game franchises, such as Contra and Gradius, started as shoot ‘em up games. The genre has also influenced other genres, such as platformers and first-person shooters.
Popular Sub-genres
The shoot ‘em up genre has several popular sub-genres that cater to different play styles and preferences. These include:
- Horizontal Scrolling Shoot ‘em Ups: Games where the action moves from left to right across the screen. Examples include R-Type and Darius.
- Vertical Scrolling Shoot ‘em Ups: Games where the action moves from top to bottom of the screen. Examples include 1942 and Raiden.
- Bullet Hell Shoot ‘em Ups: Games where the screen is filled with a large number of bullets, creating a chaotic and challenging experience. Examples include Touhou and DoDonPachi.
- Run and Gun Shoot ‘em Ups: Games that combine shooting with platforming elements. Examples include Contra and Metal Slug.
Conclusion
The Steel Empire Chronicles and Over Horizon Collector’s Editions for Nintendo Switch are a must-have for fans of the shoot ‘em up genre. The Limited and Special Limited Editions offer exclusive physical items, including a Mega Drive case, original soundtrack, and artbook. Steel Empire Chronicles and Over Horizon offer unique visual styles and challenging gameplay mechanics that are sure to appeal to fans of the genre. The shoot ‘em up genre has a long and storied history, and continues to be popular today, inspiring new game franchises and influencing other genres.
FAQs
- Q: What platforms are the Steel Empire Chronicles and Over Horizon Collector’s Editions available on?
- A: The Collector’s Editions are available exclusively on the Nintendo Switch.
- Q: How many copies of the Collector’s Editions are being made?
- A: Only 3,000 individually numbered copies of the Limited Edition will be made on Switch, while just 2,000 individually numbered copies of the Special Limited Edition will be made in total on Switch.
- Q: Are there any differences between the Limited and Special Limited Editions?
- A: Yes, the Special Limited Edition comes with a unique collector’s edition box in the shape of a Mega Drive case with several collectors items, including the original soundtrack.
- Q: Can I purchase the games separately without the collector’s items?
- A: Yes, digital versions of Steel Empire Chronicles and Over Horizon are available on the Nintendo eShop.
- Q: What is the shoot ‘em up genre?
- A: The shoot ‘em up genre is a type of video game where the player controls a character, typically a plane or spaceship, and must navigate through levels while facing off against waves of enemies.
- Q: Are shoot ‘em up games difficult to play?
- A: Shoot ‘em up games can be challenging, with difficulty often increasing as the player progresses through the levels. However, they are also known for their addicting gameplay and satisfying sense of accomplishment when the player completes a level or defeats a boss.
- Q: Are there any other shoot ‘em up games I should check out?
- A: Yes, there are many great shoot ‘em up games to check out, including classics like Gradius and R-Type, as well as newer titles like Ikaruga and Jamestown.
