Wild Guns Reloaded Review

Got an itchy trigger finger? Do you crave a challenge? Have a soft spot for steampunk and Westerns? Natsume’s old school throwback Wild Guns Reloaded checks all of these boxes with gusto, but does it make for a good package?

Wild Guns Reloaded Review

Released for the Super Nintendo in 1994, the original Wild Guns wowed gamers with its arcade-like gameplay and fast paced action. Much like that title, Wild Guns Reloaded tasks players with shooting their way through an onslaught of enemy gunslingers, robots, giant enemy crabs, and other ne’er-do-wells to get to the next level and rack up a high score. Though its kill-or-be-killed premise might seem simple, there are a number of gameplay mechanics that give this title some serious depth. The ability to slow down enemies with a lasso adds some tension, as does the ability to maximize i-frames through rolling and double-jumping.

The true joy of Wild Guns Reloaded, however, comes from its bullet-shooting mechanic. By aiming the shooting reticule at enemy fire, players can face the onslaught of bullets head-on. Those looking to simply dodge their way to victory can do so if they wish, but the game rewards this more daring style of play with heavier fire power and a bevvy of score multipliers.

Wild Guns Reloaded doesn’t stray too far from its roots, with the mechanics, music, and even selection of stages remaining largely unchanged. A number of sprites have been redrawn, each packing extra frames of animation. There are two new unique stages to play through, but this title is more of a reimagining of the original than a sequel or full-blown remake.

Perhaps the biggest addition to Wild Guns Reloaded is the addition of two new playable characters. Series mainstays Clint and Annie make a return, alongside the grenade-lobbing Doris and the dachshund Bullet. Doris specializes in heavy firepower, and can zero in on multiple targets at once. On the other hand, Bullet and his flying sentry drone can auto-target enemies and can latch onto each other for more versatile movement. Both of these characters give a new perspective to the game, and can either make the game easier or harder, depending on the player.

The only downside to Wild Guns Reloaded is its lack of extras. Although the game supports up to four players, the lack of online multiplayer is a glaring omission. In addition, the only unlockables consist of a hard mode and the ability to implement altered sound effects. The core game can be completed in an hour without continues, making its $30 price tag somewhat hard to swallow.

Wild Guns Reloaded is a real treat for old-school gamers and new fans alike. It’s not the most robust title around, but those looking for tight gameplay mechanics and great multiplayer action should take on its challenge.