Click for high-resolution image.
Super Stardust HD received its first expansion pack last month, one that was very well received by players and critics alike. The second, multiplayer add-on promises to do the same, judging by the time we spent with at Sony's recently PlayStation Day 2008.
The "Team Pack" adds a Co-op Split Screen mode as well as the incredible Versus Mode. While the concept of Versus Mode remains very simple, the menus add depth and a huge amount of variety to the experience. At your disposal are several gameplay modes, similar to many other multiplayer games' gameplay arsenal, including deathmatch, king of the hill and grab-and-run. This whole mode has been built specifically with party gaming in mind.
Up to four players can play against each other on the same planet, but the "layout" of the planet can be changed before the game commences. This allows you to overlay a maze of rocks onto the planet's surface in various shapes which players will need to navigate through. These rocks can be destroyed and, depending on the options settings, can either harm players who come too close or simply ignore them. For people who prefer a less restricted battlefield, there's an option for a clear level layout too.
Gallery: Super Stardust HD
After setting up the level and the gameplay options, the game asks you to set your personal handicap. This allows less-skilled players to play against people of any skill level thanks to better weapons or a faster ship. Speaking of balance, the final option you're given before the skirmish begins is the ability to decide your ship's specialty -- you can choose a good all-rounder, something that's built for speed or the option of having more powerful weapons on-board. These options may sound complex, but are no harder to navigate than any other menus found in the game (and there's enough on-screen help to prevent any confusion).
Gameplay itself is obviously very similar to the single-player missions, with the exception that you're fighting against up to three of your friends. Sadly, the fact that the devs have concentrated on creating a great party game means that there is no online mode, but this isn't necessarily a bad thing. The gameplay is fast-paced and frantic, especially in a tight map, and the various new weapons and features mix it up a bit whilst remaining familiar.
Ships are now able to drop proximity mines and are equipped with homing missiles, which, with good reflexes, can still be outrun. The large exploding towers found in the new Endless Solo mode can also be found in Versus mode, but they function differently. When you're nearby you'll be hit with a lightning bolt that charges up your weapons, making you move and fire quicker. These towers can still be destroyed, however, obliterating anyone floating nearby. The zoom ability has also been changed to give you more control over your boosting.
With Versus mode Housemarque has given Super Stardust HD fans almost an entirely new game to enjoy, and we're always happy to see more multiplayer games with on-the-couch gameplay. SSHD has been one title we've been returning to again and again for the last year and we look forward to doing so even more regularly after the Team Pack drops sometime this Summer.
Click for high-resolution image.
