Although a cool idea, the sand storm effect results
in rather grainy and pixellated graphics. No transparencies here :)
the 1st boss is simply incredible. He hoovers over
the water at a terrific speed! Very nice
Shoot your way around in and out of the water
This guy doesn't seem to appreciate your intrusion
The mind shattering lava effect squeezes all of the
power of the MD chips to create the ultimate possible visuals
Review-Considered by many fans as being the best of the series.
Personally, I prefer the third episode. simply because Thunder Force IV feels a little overdone, in the sense that many spectacular effetcs end up being no so spectacular because of hardware limitations. I am specifically thinking about sand storms. Cool idea but the lack of transparencies make the effect look awkward.
Other than that, the rest of the game is certainly up there with the top shmupping action on the system.
Bottom line: Another exclellent chapter in this glorious saga and a little gem in the mega drive catalogue. 8/10
from retro to modern gaming 
