Black Tiger

Black Tiger on Wii is a Virtual Console Arcade presentation of Capcom’s original game, not a motion-controlled remake. Across eight stages, the hero swings an extending chain weapon, fires diagonal shots, climbs pillars and makes exacting leaps. Rescuing petrified elders can yield hints, cash or a briefly opened shop, so early investment in longer weapons and tougher armour matters greatly later. Chests may also contain traps. These systems give the journey more resource texture than a simple run to the exit. The difficulty is less consistently earned: enemies spawn ahead, behind and overhead, leaving some hits nearly impossible to avoid. Jump timing is similarly unforgiving. Wii Virtual Console makes another credit easy to insert, but repeated continue screens interrupt the route instead of solving its underlying pressure. Early levels repeat colour schemes, while later locations become more distinct; music is serviceable rather than memorable. It suits players willing to practice a demanding arcade route and manage purchases. The direct source reviews the European Wii VC availability in 2011; the frozen 2010 year may denote Japan and is not silently treated as the same regional launch.

Who it is for: Arcade-action players willing to practise and budget.

Play notes: Wii arcade emulation; European review 2011 versus frozen 2010.