KnightEx Updates Classic Formula for Sega Genesis Currently Work in Progress
Joust only ever graced the Sega Genesis as part of the Williams Arcade Classics collection released by Williams in 1996. It was accompanied by many other arcade classics such as Robotron: 2024, Sinistar, Defender, and Defender 2. This release was a fairly no frills collection – there were game options for all the games to change starting lives and other basic elements. There was no bump in graphics or audio and nothing really was done to this collection to add value beyond the bundled games. Now with the announcement of KnigtEx, we are finally getting a Joust game with some interesting additions to boot.
Sticking to What Works
Joust was simple to pick up and play while hiding so many little nuances that added challenge for players. KnightEx looks like it is keeping that intact. Where this giant bird riding battle game steps away from Joust is adding verticality to the level. You are not limited to one screen in KnightEx.
As you fly upward or downward, you will notice subtle backgrounds and some parallax scrolling. This is a nice touch that adds a bit of depth to the flying battles. The backgrounds are kept quite subdued leaving you to focus on the position of the enemies and platforms with little confusion.
Audio is better in KnightEx as well, you can hear the flapping of your birds’ wings as a deep bass, for Sega Genesis, soundtrack plays. Screeches as you come to a sliding halt are also included at this early stage of development.
A Prolific Developer
Phoboz Games of YouTube is quite well versed in creating games for many retro consoles. While most of their work seems to focus on the Atari Jaguar, they have worked on the Vectrex and Sega Genesis shown on their YouTube channel.
I will be returning to their channel for future coverage – Hammer of the Gods and Wyvern Tales 2 both have been calling for my attention. Impressive all around.
What do you think of KnightEx for the Sega Genesis? Were you a Joust fan? What classic arcade game do you have fond memories of?
This article was originally published in Hive Gaming.