Steel Empire is a shoot 'em up classic from the 16-Bit era, gloriously remade for the 3DS, and ported to the North American eShop by Teyon. There is no disputing whether or not this is a good game, but the real question is whether or not it is worth the asking price. Teyon is charging $30 USD for this steampunk shooter, and if the game is worth that price or if Teyon is asking for the moon is up to the buyer.

Steel Empire like the previous sidescrolling shooters from the 90's mainly travels to the right as you traverse levels, but the few times the game goes to the left feels like a different experience. Its hard to believe that going another direction can add a different feeling to game, but somehow it does. Regardless of which way you are going, you can fire your guns to your left or your right, but not at the same time. In case you get overwhelmed, you have a handful of screen clearing bombs, which are usually ineffective against bosses. You also can collect power ups from which can actually hurt you if you run into them before shooting them, ranging from more firepower, and extra bombs to health items and extra lives. 



All of these will be needed to blaze through the seven levels, and several boss fights. Some of the most enjoyable parts in the game are the boss fights, with the game leading up to the penultimate boss battle in space. It is adrenaline filled, requiring all of your skills, and doesn't disappoint as a final battle to this classic. As you progress through the game, you will slowly level up with your guns gaining power every time, capping out at Lv. 20. In simpler terms, the more enemies that are shot down, more experience is earned.



The story to Steel Empire is told by mission briefings, which oddly enough, don't capture their same charm they did in the Genesis version. In the Genesis version, it felt like you were watching an old film, both in presentation and sound made during the briefing; however, in this version,  the charm is lost and the story in turn feels skippable. 
Set in 18XX in a world where steam power reigns supreme, you play as a soldier in The Republic of Silverhead, and battle the Steel Empire, jokingly called the Motorhead Empire by subjects and enemies alike. The Steel Empire has taken control of most of the world. You wage war against Gen. Styron from your choice of aircraft, a nimble light armored plane or a slower blimp with more firepower and defense than its competition. Being able to switch your aircraft when you run out of lives and use a continue is a nice touch as well.



Steel Empire looks beautiful on the 3DS screen both in 2D and 3D, without a trace of slowdown which was present in its debut version. The soundtrack has received an equally graceful update sounding just as impressive as the game looks. The game has several customization options, with button mapping, the ability to change your amount of lives, and with ranging difficulties. Gamers wanting to experience the same default difficulty as the original should start on Hard, as that matches the Genesis' Normal difficulty. 

Conclusion:
If you are a Sega aficionado, or a fan of shoot em' ups chances are you might already own this game in some shape or form. Steel Empire would be a worthy addition to anyone's collection, but this is currently an expensive addition. Sadly, Steel Empire's worst enemy is it's price tag, making most miss out on this game. However, if you have the funds to back the Silverhead's rebellion, you are in for a steam powered treat.

Overall: 8/10

Review Copy provided by Teyon