Conference rusure::nintendo

	I like it!  There are 8 stages to complete; each one more
	difficult than the preceeding one, of course.  You (a Spaceman
	who's riding a Spacecycle in this part of the game) start out
	each section by making your way to the entrance of the Air
	Fortress.  You must shoot and/or dodge various projectiles
	and stationary objects along the way, and pickup extra ammo
	and energy (if you can).  The graphics are very good in this
	phase of the game.  If you make it through this "approach
	phase", you automatically enter the Air Fortress.  Once inside
	you are no longer riding the Spacecycle, but have a Jet-Pack
	on your back.  You can walk or fly, now.  Whenever you're
	moving your energy level is depleted.  When you stop, it goes
	back up.  In and out of the Fortress you have unlimited shots,
	although in the Fortress you also can fire a more powerful
	weapon, referred to as bombs.  This is the aforementioned
	ammo that can be replenished.  As you cruise around in the
	Fortress, looking for the Main Generator (or whatever it is)
	that you need to destroy (one in each of the 8 Fortresses),
	your assorted foes shoot at you, unlike the "approach phase".
	Your energy level doesn't go back up after any enemy shot hits
	you (as it does when you stop moving).  Your must find more
	energy to replenish those losses.  Once you destroy the Main
	Generator you have a limited amount of time to find your Space-
	cycle any fly out of the Fortress before it explodes (killing
	you, of course).  The interior of the Fortress is somewhat
	maze-like, with the mazes becoming tougher as you proceed to
	subsequent Fortresses.  In fact, I think the first one isn't
	even a maze, as there is only one path to follow.  Basically,
	I'd say this game is a "shooter-type", as there are no potions,
	magic spells, etc., but there is an element of exploration.  I
	think I saw this one at Toys R Us in Manchester, N.H. last week
	for under (slightly) $20.  I think this game is well worth that
	price, especially if it's your type of game.

								   Mike

    While on vacation last week, I bought the game for my son ($19.97).
    As mentioned in previous (-.1) reply - which was a v-good summary
    it combines several features.
    
    Not mentioned, but important, is both a continue (restart in same Air
    Fortress as killed) and password (each Fortress having it's own
    password.
    
    During what was called the "approach" phase, your required to "power
    up" which means collecting 4 different symbols - one for energy, one
    for bombs, one for invincibility (limited time) and one for immediate
    destruction of all on-screen enemies.  These symbols are scattered
    throughout the screen - visible, and defeating attacking enemies will
    also produce additional symbols.
    
    "Powering up" becomes increasingly important in later Fortresses, starting
    in Fortress #5 - (which my son is currently stuck in).
    
    After the approach phase you land on the surface of an Air Fortress and
    must enter to destroy it's reactor.  This is done by using elevators to
    travel throughout the Fortress' many levels and rooms - some pathways
    are guarded by a variety of attackers and others are guarded by small
    sub-reactors.  Several of the attackers and all of the sub-reactors
    including the main reactor can only be destroyed with bombs.  While you
    can power-up with energy and bombs inside the Fortress, you must be
    adequately "supplied" when first entering - especially in later stages.
    
    It is possible, for instance, to succeed in completing the "approach
    phase" for Air Fortress #5 without bombs, but upon entering, you are
    required to destroy a sub-reactor (in 1 pathway) or a guardian robot
    in another pathway - there are often several pathways available to
    reach the main reactor (only 1 escape route).  Unable to destory either
    simply blocks your search and eventually leads to a swarm of attackers
    overwhelming your energy supply.
    
    I thought the game was pretty good - in the approach phase, there are
    a large number of attackers (often several different types) moving and
    shooting at you at the same time.  Later stages produce additional
    types and quantities of attackers.  This phase is fast-paced and does
    require concentration.  Once inside the Fortress, speed is slowed down
    in favor of strategy and agility.
    
    At the $20 price, the game is highly recommended.
    
    If there is anyone with the passwords for all 8 Fortress' I'm sure
    my son would appreciate getting them...
    
    

    
    
    	Hi
    
    	I have a password that will get you to the 8th fortress
    
    	ready?
    
    	
    
    
    
    	the password is............ SUGA
    
    
    	Wayne

    
    
    OH BOY!! OH BOY!!
    
    I can see a blister on my son's finger already - Thanks
    

    
         Just some quick info. After 8 the fortresses restart again only
      at a more difficult level. I felt 6 was the toughest, there was just
      enough time to get out. One mistake and its all over. I have the password
      for that level if your interested.
       
                                                      RONM
       P.S. If this type of game is for you checkout IMAGE FIGHT. Finished
      all but the last AREA. No password, but unlimited continues from
      attained level. The penalty round is a killer. 
    

    Hi
    
    I get stuck in the second fortress. I seem to run out of energy 
    and die. Anybody have any tips about gaining more energy?
    (I know about resting in-between moving.)
    
    Dan