Collection essentials #254: Sunset Riders (SNES)

Boy do I love Konami or what? Making this list has made me appreciate even more just what an incredible run they had in the early days of gaming. 

Anyways, Sunset Riders is another game that originated in arcades. It’s a run ‘n’ gun much like Konami’s own Contra, only as you can see there’s a wild west theme to everything as you play as cowboys shootin’ up a whole bunch of outlaws. This SNES version translates pretty well. There are some compromises, such as the removal of four-player cooperative play (down to only 2) and some changes to the stages, but for the most part the original experience is preserved quite well. 

I don’t have a ton to say about this game other than it’s just really good. It has great controls, good variety in level design, an excellent soundtrack, and cheesy memorable voice clips from the bosses that add some extra charm. It walks the line well between providing a good challenge and not feeling too unfair or insurmountable. The “slide” maneuver was introduced in this game before it was ever implemented in Contra, and I really appreciate that because I think quick evasive moves are fun and useful in these types of games. I wish there were a way to stand still in place and aim in any direction, but alas.

The Native American boss Chief Wigwam certainly comes off as a problematic stereotype, which is unfortunate. But I think a little slack ought to be cut in this case, mostly because the game was made by Japanese people who couldn’t be expected to know any better. The developers were certainly inspired by cultural American depictions of the Wild West with whatever baggage they came with. The John Wayne influence seems clear when one of the bosses greets you with the line, “Draw, pilgrim!”

In modern times, it might be a better choice to go with the “Arcade Archives” available digitally on modern platforms, as you’ll get the original arcade release in all its glory complete with four-player co-op. I still find myself fond of this quality SNES port to the point where I consider it a collection essential.