Wild Guns, originally released for the Super Nintendo in 1996, garnered significant popularity. Consequently, its return as a retro edition, Wild Guns Reloaded, was not entirely unexpected. While the graphics have been refined, the original’s retro aesthetic has been preserved. A key enhancement is the expansion of multiplayer support, now accommodating up to four players, compared to the original’s two.
Beyond graphical enhancements and increased player capacity, Wild Guns Reloaded introduces additional content. The original game featured Clint and Annie as the only playable characters. This updated version expands the roster with Doris and the canine companion, Bullet. Each new character possesses unique abilities and specialized weaponry.
In addition to the original six stages, new levels have been incorporated, alongside new boss encounters. Furthermore, the game features additional modes, including a Boss Rush mode.
Gameplay involves controlling your character from a third-person perspective, engaging targets within the environment. Aim is controlled independently, while character movement is tied to the aiming direction. This control scheme can present challenges, particularly when navigating dense enemy fire, as viable cover options are limited. Furthermore, the game features a low damage threshold, often resulting in rapid character eliminations. Sustained concentration is critical for survival. Upon depleting available lives, the game restarts from the beginning.
While the core game mechanics offer initial enjoyment, the experience can become repetitive. The high difficulty, coupled with the absence of a save function, feels like an oversight in this modern remaster.
In conclusion, fans of the original Wild Guns may appreciate Wild Guns Reloaded for its expanded content and updated features. However, the challenging difficulty and lack of save options may lead to frustration for some players, resulting in a mixed overall assessment.
