Three years after the appearance of the arcade version released in 1993, it is extremely rare for this developer to create a game solely on this medium (remember Thunder Force AC, an adaptation of Thunder Force III on Megadrive, by SEGA in arcade which had obtained the license of the latter, probably reluctantly from Technosoft) released Hyper Duel on Saturn and I must say that it is more than a success. Let's take a look at the different changes.

At first glance, what changes at first glance are the graphics! Saturn obliges, the aesthetics have been well reworked which gives a more refined version with some elements of the decorations retouched, even new for certain courses. It's not over, the three protagonists are also entitled to their facelift sessions because they really needed it I tell you! There, we have a manga-style character design that is much more appropriate than this ugly "US comic" style imitation, which was a bit of the style of the time, actually. Add to that an introductory demo typical of Technosoft games embellished with the original arcade mode or Saturn version depending on your taste.

Gameplay: Apart from your three selectable characters, you can play with two (a significant advantage), since each of them has its own characteristics in terms of their weaponry. For example: the H-Mustang has a wider shot to take down more enemies; S-Forgel (my favorite) has a more compact shot, therefore more powerful; P-Smasher, on the other hand, remains the most powerful of the three, but his shot is close range (recommended for the more kamikaze among you). Now, let's talk about the term evoked by Technosoft to name the Hyper Duel genre: the “Shooting Metamorphosis”, a style that we found through our ancestors like Chimera Beast, Last Duel or even more recently the Macross series (Macross (remix ), Macross 2036, Macross II, Macross Scrambled Valkyrie, etc…). With the touch of a button, this system allows you to switch from a "ship" form to "mecha" form instantly and vice versa. In spaceship mode you are more mobile, and more offensive in mecha, and you will have to alternate between the two depending on the situation that arises. In addition, the key which is free according to your chosen transformation can be used to trigger a more powerful weapon, limited by a gauge at the bottom of your screen. It fills up as you progress in the game and by collecting an option called B. Otherwise, little tip, when you are in mecha, the scenery can not touch you.

Difficulty: Technosoft is renowned for creating affordable shoots, and this Hyper Duel is far from insurmountable. He is still more difficult than a certain Thunder Force III. But for an advanced player, all 8 levels end in a day or two.

Sound: At the height of his art, Technosoft or rather master Hyakutarou Tsukumo who I remind you was the composer of the OST of Thunder Force V and Blast Wind, once again signs the soundtrack of Hyper Duel. The re-orchestrations specially made for the Saturn version are the best in the business. A synth always very pronounced sometimes imitating the electric guitar, frantic and catchy rhythm, all with a finesse of the melodies as only this artist can offer you. A magician this guy!