Gain Ground - review by Mean Machines Sega magazine Lookback - Reviews

Kind of like Gauntlet without the scrolling, Gain Ground stunned us all with its yawn-inducing gameplay and pathetic graphics and sound.

What we said then

Presentation: 74%
A rather dull intro sets the flavour of the rest of the game.
Graphics: 69%
Although the sprites are quite detailed, the lack of animation and variety renders them dull and uninspiring.
Sound: 67%
Simple and bland spot effects maintain the lack of thrills in this game.
Playability: 72%
The play is interesting at first, but after as few sessions it all becomes rather monotonous.
Lastability: 56%
Fifty screens might seem a lot, but when they're all basically very similar, lasting appeal is limited.
Overall: 62%
A good game in principal marred by the complete lack of challenge and excitement.

JAZ: If you're after a fun shoot 'em up involving people against baddies try out Gauntlet, it's miles better than this.
MATT: A good idea has been lost in dreary, aimless play that constantly fails to grab the imagination; I thought that the game would improve as it got more difficult — but no luck there!

JAZ: Battle Squadron cuts the mustard, but this cuts the cheese. What a sinker. I thought this was crap then and like it less nowadays. Take 25% off each rating, then flush the cart down the lavvie.
RICH: Arghhh! Take it away! I love great games. I even like bad games because they've strangely compelling in a cack sort of way. Gain Ground is sort of in a limbo, it's so dull and boring. Take away 20% from each rating.
Rating: 42
Reviewer: Mean Machines Sega magazine Lookback
Region: UK
Scans: MeanMachinesSega-Magazine-Issue04?gallerypage=102