The Final Word game review

Steel Talons -- Atari

Based on the arcade cabinet title, Steel Talons is a helicopter flight game for play on the Atari Lynx. Players must strategically take out enemies in order to fullfill ammunition, time, and fuel restictions. A variety of different style missions challenge both player's evasive techniques, as well as their dexterity and flying skill.

Ferrari Man
Steel Talons is another example of how powerful portable units can be. As for the basic game, everything from the arcade is intact. However, one of the highpoints in the arcade is the simulator setup, and here the Lynx falls short. I found it akward and often difficult to control. Not to mention, passing through several screens to find enemy type and location detracted from the fun of this cart. Other than these short comings, it was very well executed. Although the FX come close to the arcade version, they lack the luster to make them outstanding. While Steel Talons may not be the best translation ever, it does represent a giant step forward in the portable market.

????
Very much like the arcade hit! The only things missing are the full set of pilot controls, and cabinet feedback. This is one of the best Lynx games I have played. The graphics are clear and fun to watch. The sound effects are cool. The playability took a little while to get used to, but it was well worth it. With many scenarios to fly through, this game is a great simulator. A must by for those who own a Lynx.

R.I.P.
While very close to its arcade couterpart, I found Steel Talons to be infinitly easier in a number of respects. A case in point is the canyon stage, I was able to dust it cold in 1:20. Now, this doesn't make the game bad; I enjoyed playing it and the graphics, sound, and control are fantastic, but I was hoping for a tad higher difficulty. Definently a game to buy. Check it out today!

Salamander
Steel Talons is another excellent arcade translation. Both the sound and graphics are very similar to the coin-op. The control is not bad, but I miss the cabinet. A very solid translation.

>>>>> 78.5/100 <<<<<		Ferrari Man	????	R.I.P.	Salamander
Graphics		4.0	4.5	4.5	4.0
Sound		2.5	4.0	5.0	3.0
Gameplay/Control		2.5	5.0	5.0	4.0
Longevity/Playability		3.5	4.0	4.0	3.5
Overall		3.5	4.5	4.5	3.0
Total		16.0	22.0	23.0	17.5

Originally appeared Vol 1, Iss 4 (10-11/92)