Silk Worm
System: NES
Release Date: June 1990
Developer: Sammy Japan
Publisher: American Sammy
Genre: Shoot ‘em Up
Artificial Intelligence is the problem this time in Silk Worm. Mankind solved the problem of war when it created the artificial brain “MHC2”. Except, it has overridden its programming and taken over the weapons systems of the world. A two member team has been chosen to save the planet outfitted with an attack helicopter and interceptor Jeep. Team up with a friend or go at it alone through nine levels to save the world!
You can choose which vehicle you want to control to begin with. I started with the helicopter. The B Button shoots forward and down at a 45 degree angle. If you press the A Button, you shoot down at a 45 degree angle and straight down. Your goal is to blow up everything you can. Mines in the ground can be shot and destroyed for a short invincibility period. If you get a second, you can destroy every enemy on screen. After dying on the third wave, I decided to try the Jeep.
The Jeep runs on the ground and can be moved forward and back by pressing right and left. The cannon shoots with the B Button and can be aimed by pressing up and down to rotate your shot. In order to avoid mines, the Jeep is able to jump with a press of the A Button. I felt like the Jeep was able to shoot more rapidly than the helicopter.
At the end of each level is a boss. They alternate between a tank and a helicopter of increasing strength and difficulty. You have to shoot the vulnerable spots to do damage. Once you make it to the end, you have to face off against the AI itself. As with all the other bosses, if you can avoid the missiles it shoots, you can save Earth for a later disaster. Enjoy the great graphics you’ve been rewarded with.
Graphics: 2.0
Everything looks fine. I feel like there are more colors than usual on screen.
Sound: 1.5
The music was forgettable, but the sound effects were too overpowering for me.
Gameplay: 2.0
The game plays decent enough. Levels don’t drag on for too long. The Jeep felt stronger than the helicopter.
Difficulty: 2.5
Once you understand what the enemies can do to you, it’s easy to prioritize.
Fun Factor: 2.0
I had an enjoyable time and wouldn’t mind trying it with a partner some day.
Overall Grade: 2.0
Silk Worm earns a C. It’s a pretty decent game. Not my favorite, not anything I hate. Give it a shot.