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Apparently, putting an unnecessary letter at the end of your game title means it’s cool. However, it doesn’t help Gyrostarr that much. This unique, somewhat bland shooter borrows from classic titles Tempest and F-Zero for its gameplay, but the addition of four-player co-op is certainly its finest feature.

Players control a ship barreling down a tunnel at ridiculous speeds, fending off incoming enemy forces and snagging power-ups. While the initial levels may seem slow and sluggish, Gyrostarr wastes no time in picking up the pace. While not graphically spectacular (in fact, it’s quite bland), there’s a nauseating sense of speed when speed hits full thrust.

With the behind-the-ship viewpoint and targeting zone, Tempest players will feel right at home. However, Gyrostarr also has its simplistic style. The levels are limited in that the tunnel is always the same, except for some twists and turns that for the most part have little purpose other than to block the view of incoming objects. This is a title that feels space constrained.

When four players are tacking this challenge, this High Voltage Software developed title takes on new life. While overly hectic and almost impossible to tell what’s going on most of the time, fighting not only enemies but for power-ups creates a secondary level of challenge along with additional intensity. A grappling hook can grab bonuses down the track, and with that much ammo being dispersed, that may be the only way to get what you need.

With F-Zero’s classic racing speed and the timeless shooting mechanics of Tempest, WiiWare fans have a winner on their hands. There may not be much replay value, and the concept does become tiring due a severe lack of variety, but any game that can cause this level of stomach sickness along with solid shooting mechanics deserves a purchase.

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