The Video Game Critic

I just took another look at Thunder Spirits (SNES) and it's actually much different from (and inferior to) the Genesis version. Might need to update the review.

Agreed, although it has been too many years to remember all the reasons why. Thunder Spirits is a SNES version, but TF3 is far far better. I remember finding Thunder Spirits and thinking how sucky it was compared to TF3.

Thunder Spirits plays fine... until you enable rapid-fire in the options menu, then it becomes the embodiment of every SNES-too-slow meme.

Retro STrife wrote:I'm only a casual shooter fan at best, but your high praise for Thunder Force III made me add it to my to-buy list. Loose copies go for about $30 though, so I'll wait for a deal (like $20) since I don't play shooters much. Thanks for the review.

I found it even interesting that the Videogamecritic gave Thunder Force III a higher rating than Thunder Force IV; I find the latter better than the former in every aspect - playability, controls, music (this department alone is absolutely stunning, with the best distorted guitars you'll ever find on the Genesis) and graphics. I find TF IV one of the best shooters ever, for whatever system.

I would actually have to agree with the critic that I think tf3 is better than its sequel. The gameplay and stages just seem tighter. I do like the sequel just not as much.