It doesn't have much going for the story, but the excellent action makes up for nearly everything.
One problem I do have to address is the game's story. The plot in Star Successor is, in short, lackluster. The story is simple and easy to follow, but it is riddled with some ridiculous moments that wouldn't make a whole lot of sense from a common-sense point of view. For example, there is a part when the main character decides to follow a train because he believes it will lead to an important location. He then lands on the train, which is filled to the brim with enemies and is also being followed by a giant, horned beast. Considering the main character can fly, why not follow it from the air at a safe distance? Also, the dialogue is incredibly cliché, as it repeats some of the most spoken lines of video game history. Luckily, the main focus of the game is directed elsewhere.
That would be the gameplay itself. Star Successor packs intense, shoot-'em-up arcade action and you'll almost never stop firing. Your T.V. screen is going to be coated in enemies and explosions. To boost the on-edge-of-your-seat gameplay comes an excellent control scheme that is simple and responsive. You can use shoot anywhere using the Wii's sensor to aim, you can use melee attacks, dodge enemy fire and obstacles, and lock on to enemies. Also, while this game is classified as a rail-shooter, you're allowed to move around on the screen horizontally and vertically, making it more reminiscent of scrolling shooters such as Ikaruga, Gradius, and 1942.
Another highlight of the game would be the varied level design. Each stage is intelligently crafted and it certainly keeps the action from ever becoming stale. While you'll be flying around quite a bit, you will also encounter portions of gameplay that remind you of a 2D shooter, a driving stage, and even a scene which you can't help but to think of a 2D fighting game. It keeps you guessing what will come next, and all of the variations are very well done.
While this game may feature arcade-style gameplay, be thankful that it doesn't chew up quarters as well. You will probably die, and by probably I mean quite a lot. Sin and Punishment will challenge your reflexes and put your hand-eye coordination to the test. It can certainly become discouraging from time-to-time, but frustration is kept to a minimum, as the enemies and bosses are almost never cheap. Each time you continue is an opportunity to observe the patterns of enemy attacks and master the art of dodging them, and it can definitely feel gratifying to overcome the many gargantuan bosses. It should also be noted that this level of challenge does help lengthen an otherwise short game.
If you are looking for a compelling tale, you will be disappointed. Otherwise, if you're looking for a complete thrill-ride, Star Successor will not disappoint. It is quality, shoot-'em-up action that will keep you on your toes for the whole trip and throw a load of refreshing variety at you all the while. It's difficult to describe the actual gameplay with only words, so it is highly recommended that you witness it first-hand. If you are into arcade shooters, you will be glad you did.
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