Sega has been bringing their classics to Switch in upgraded forms via the Sega Ages series, and this past week saw Gain Ground join the lineup. Gain Ground is a game that you either love or you hate, and I happen to love it. I have always viewed it as Gauntlet mixed with Strategy elements. You need to coordinate how you get to the top of the screen without getting hit. Attacking also needs to be planned out, to take out as many enemies as possible and unlock more characters.
Gain Ground is mostly preserved for the Switch release, but the arcade visuals shine brightly here. The new additions added for the Sega Ages release include an easy mode and a mode where all the characters are unlocked. The easy mode really does make the experience less stressful, but it is completely optional and those who want the challenge can still enjoy it.
Gain Ground still has its amazing soundtrack that really gets you hyped for battle, and its better than ever. the sound comes off great. As this is an enhanced release of the arcade version and not the Genesis/Mega Drive version, the music is not hampered in any way.
For those unfamiliar with how its played, you must guide at least one character to the top of the screen or defeat all enemies to complete the level. There is a time limit and the enemies are merciless. This is why the aforementioned easy mode may be necessary for new players at first. Every 10 levels is a boss fight, and these will test your skills and endurance. Plan out your attack and keep focused, and you will succeed.
I love Gain Ground and the Sega Ages release is nothing short of masterful. Sega has released a definitive version of the arcade masterpiece and I urge everyone to give this a shot.
Disclaimer: A review key was provided
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