Blade Master Longplay (Arcade) [QHD]

Developed and published by Irem in 1991
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Yet another Irem arcade game I'd never heard of, Blade Master is yet another showcase for the studio's incredible graphic design and artistic talent. Although not credited, I suspect Takeshi Okui (In the Hunt, Metal Slug, Gun Force II) might have been involved in the project; the graphics and animation certainly have the same level of polish and flair.

As for the game itself, it's a fairly formulaic side-scrolling brawler, albeit one lacking sufficient variety in its move system to make it a true classic.

In place of combos, the developers added the ability to counter an enemy's attack by hitting the attack button just before the opponent strikes. Landing a successful counter might knock the enemy down, smash their shield, or leave them open to a few additional thrusts with your sword or spear. It's not a bad idea, and you'll definitely need to master the technique if you want to beat the game, but it doesn't really make up for the lack of additional moves or attacks, resulting a game which, beyond it's stunning visuals, it's quite a bland experience.

I guess Blade Master is better with a second player, but as a solo experience, there are better fighting games out there.

Chapters
00:00 Attract mode
00:30 Stage 1: Raid on Sandstorm Fort
03:50 Stage 2: Escape from the Valley of Death
07:52 Stage 3: Battle of Hell Hill
13:31 Stage 4: Raging Thunder Canyon
19:37 Stage 5: Ambush below the water
21:20 Stage 6: Castle in the air
27:30 Stage 7: Showdown in a Wasteland
35:27 Ending

#blademaster
#retrogaming
#irem