Super E.D.F. (1991)
Super E.D.F. is a vertical-scrolling shoot 'em up game developed by Jaleco and released for the Super Famicom in October 1991. The name E.D.F. stands for "Earth Defense Force," and the game puts players in control of a futuristic fighter jet protecting Earth from an alien invasion. Jaleco, known for their diverse game library, created this title to showcase the SNES's capabilities in the shooter genre, offering intense action, multiple weapons, and visually impressive stages.
Gameplay and Power-Up System
Super E.D.F. is a traditional vertical shmup where players pilot a fighter ship that moves freely across the screen, shooting at waves of enemy aircraft, ground units, and large bosses. The ship's main weapon can be upgraded by collecting power-up capsules, which enhance its power, add extra spread shots, or increase the ship's speed. The game features a unique "bomb" system, where players can deploy a powerful screen-clearing explosive that can be charged up by collecting special items. The game's difficulty is challenging, with enemies attacking from all directions and bullet patterns that require quick reflexes and pattern recognition.
The game features seven stages, each with a distinct theme, including jungle terrain, underwater bases, and futuristic cities. The bosses are massive and memorable, with multiple attack phases and weak points that require careful aiming to defeat. The game's visual style is bright and colorful, with detailed sprites and smooth scrolling, and the soundtrack, composed by Jaleco's in-house team, features catchy synth melodies that keep the action intense. The game also includes a two-player mode, allowing friends to co-op through the campaign, which was a rare feature for the genre.
Super E.D.F. received positive reviews for its fast-paced action and solid design, though it was sometimes overshadowed by other shmups on the platform. It remains a solid title in Jaleco's catalog and a fondly remembered game for fans of vertical shooters.