Description

"Thunder Storm & Road Blaster" is a compilation released for the Sega Saturn that showcases two classic arcade titles from the 1980s, both renowned for their pioneering use of laserdisc technology. "Thunder Storm," also known as "Cobra Command" outside of Japan, is a helicopter-based shooting game where players navigate a series of dynamic combat scenarios from a first-person perspective. The aim is to pilot the helicopter through various global locations, avoiding obstacles and neutralizing enemy threats using precise timing and sharp shooting skills. "Road Blaster," known in some regions as "Road Avenger," puts players behind the wheel of a high-powered vengeance-seeking sports car. The gameplay focuses on fast-paced, reactive driving through dense traffic and hazardous environments, with cinematic cutscenes advancing a revenge-driven storyline.

Both games are distinct for their use of full-motion video (FMV) to create an immersive arcade experience, blending animated sequences with interactive gameplay that was revolutionary at the time. When ported to the Sega Saturn in 1995, these games were packaged together to offer fans a nostalgic slice of arcade history, leveraging the Saturn's capability to handle video playback to maintain the visual and auditory fidelity of the original laserdisc format. This compilation not only provided an authentic arcade experience from the comfort of home but also preserved the distinctive art and animation style unique to each game, which had captivated a generation of gamers with its cutting-edge technology and engaging narratives.