09/19/05
Star Control for Sega Genesis (complete)
Well, since one measly video game is all I have today, I'll try to stretch things out a bit by showing you every single thing that came with it:
01. The game is Star Control for the Sega Genesis, and first up is the box it comes in. As far as I know, Star Control was the only Genesis game sold in this type of box - the kind most PC games are sold in, only smaller. Box features include: cover art by famed fantasy illustrator Boris Vallejo and an enthusiastic proclamation of "THE FIRST 12 MEGABIT GAME!" right above the logo.
02. Next up is the instruction manual which includes this overview: "Star Control is a science-fiction wargame which pits the forces of The Alliance of Free Stars against those of the predatory Ur-Quan hierarchy. The game is designed so that you can ease into play, familiarizing yourself with menus, options and player controls. The Alliance and Hierarchy each possess seven different types of warships. Each vessel has its own maneuvering and firing characteristics, plus a unique special power that you can employ when circumstances dictate."
03. Now we come to the Alien & Starship Specifications manual. Best line: "These naked space clams have leathery skin, and a slimy interior which is known to ooze through their pores when [they are] alarmed..." Best picture:
...AKA "Pumpkin Tits". Judging by the signature in the bottom left corner, I believe this was drawn by none other than Captain EO himself.
04. Here's the cartridge itself. This is the thing you stick into the Genesis. The thing that isn't your penis.
05. Lastly, here's a promotional insert for four Accolade/Ballistic games, including Star Control. The back of each section details various facts about the game on the front, such as the story, design notes, special features and "hot tips." Here are Star Control's design notes: "Designed by Paul Reiche III and Fred Ford. The game was inspired by the works of fiction of Orson Scott Card, Larry Niven, Robert A. Heinlein, and 100 worthy others." Worthy, huh? Yes, I'm sure it was the highlight of each author's career to have been 1/103rd of the vague inspiration behind a middling sci-fi video game.
Still, this one brings back great memories, and the one-on-one dogfight mode - whether against the computer or a friend - is still a blast. 99 cents at America's Thrift Store in Baton Rouge. Emulate it today!
© 2005 seawall
