Plasma Sword: Nightmare of Bilstein | December 9, 1999
In March 1998, the sequel to Star Gladiator, Plasma Sword: Nightmare of Bilstein, was released in arcades. This game was developed on the upgraded ZN-2 board based on the PlayStation and was not ported to PS. It was ported to Dreamcast about 1 year and 9 months later, in December 1999.
The international title is Plasma Sword: Nightmare of Bilstein, and unlike the first installment, it switched to a more conventional 3D fighting game. This game marked the conclusion of the series. A unique feature of Plasma Sword is that, with the exception of hidden characters Kaede and Lion (Noeon), most characters share the same basic moves, grabs, and special attacks, with only the Plasma Strike, the super move, being unique to each. The reason for this difference in super moves remains unknown, but it is regarded as a way to give each character their own identity.
To view the true ending, players need to progress through 8 stages and achieve a certain score. In single-round mode, 70,000 points are needed; in 3-round mode, 95,000 points are required; and in 5-round mode, 110,000 points must be accumulated.
Game System: Plasma Sword: Nightmare of Bilstein introduces new features like the removal of the guard button, replaced by a side-move button. The game also includes the Plasma Gauge, which fills up when players attack or defend. This gauge can be used to perform powerful moves like the Plasma Strike or Plasma Field.
Basic Controls:
- A: Slash
- B: Horizontal Slash
- K: Kick
- M: Side Movement
- Start: Taunt
Plasma Gauge and Special Moves:
- A + B: Grab
- A + M: Plasma Revenge (counter against plasma attacks)
- B + M: Plasma Reflect (counter move)
- ↓↘→ + A + B: Plasma Strike (Super Move)
- B + K: Plasma Field (sucks the opponent into the field)
Features: If you win with Plasma Strike, 'S' appears on the victory screen, and with Plasma Field, 'F' appears. Perfect victories show 'P,' and if you win with guard damage KO, the victory text changes from red to gold.
Characters: The game features various characters, each with unique stories and special moves. Some are new to the series, while others return from the previous game.
Main Characters:
- Kanzaki Hayato (Human): Fights to prevent the resurrection of Bilstein.
- Jun Lin William (Human): Fights the Fourth Empire to avenge his father.
- Saturn Dyer (Saturnian): Joins the Star Gladiators to create a circus culture for his homeland.
- Franco Geralt (Human): A former bullfighter turned general of the Fourth Empire, seeking revenge.
Story: Plasma Sword: Nightmare of Bilstein’s story revolves around the resurgence of the Fourth Empire’s ambitions and the main characters' efforts to stop it. The rumor of Bilstein's resurrection spreads across space, and Hayato, Jun, Saturn, and Gamoff take action to prevent it. The war becomes a mix of battles between the Star Gladiators, Plasma users, and independent fighters.
Episodes and Endings: Each character has their own story and ending. By defeating hidden bosses or meeting specific conditions, players can unlock true endings. For example, Hayato celebrates his revenge against Bilstein, while Jun avenges his father and worries about the future with Hayato.
