Nectaris experts, what is the definitive version of Neo Nectaris?

[SuperGrafx16]

I really need to know what the definitive version of Neo Nectaris is, and what the main differences are between the 3 versions released.

1.) Neo Nectaris on PC-Engine Duo/Super CD-ROM (1994)
2.) Military Madness 2 (Android/Mobile)
3.) Military Madness Neo Nectaris (iOS/iPhone/iPod Touch/iPad)



Do the mobile versions have much different graphics?  Do they have the same A.I./gameplay engine as the PC-Engine Duo version?


What version is best, what do you Nectaris experts/fans recommend ?

I really want to sink my teeth into this game, but cannot decide which version to get.

I need your help, thanks in advance.

[MotherGunner]

Forgot Nectaris on Playstation.  =)

[SuperGrafx16]

The PlayStation Nectaris was more like the original but with different maps. The 3D polygonal battle scenes were God awful, as were the loading times. Still, worth owning I'd say.

 I think it contained the original game, too.

[Black Tiger]

Neo Nectaris PCE is the definitive version and contains both Nectaris and Neo Nectaris. Neo Nectaris also has one of the greatest soundtracks evAR in CD quality. All other versions are novelties that compliment the PCE games.

To find out the details of the misc ports, check out this site:

http://nectaris.tg-16.com/

[SuperGrafx16]

Neo Nectaris PCE is the definitive version and contains both Nectaris and Neo Nectaris. Neo Nectaris also has one of the greatest soundtracks evAR in CD quality. All other versions are novelties that compliment the PCE games.

To find out the details of the misc ports, check out this site:

http://nectaris.tg-16.com/

Thanks Black Tiger!


Anyone else wish to further discuss this subject?  I really want to know the differences between the PCE version and the mobile versions.

BTW, which mobile version is better, Android or iOS?

[arromdee]

Don't forget the Gameboy version.  It is in Japanese but it has been fan translated.

[SuperGrafx16]

Don't forget the Gameboy version.  It is in Japanese but it has been fan translated.

Don't forget the Gameboy version.  It is in Japanese but it has been fan translated.

Cool. thanks, forgot about that one.

[Black Tiger]

If you get PCE.emu for Android, you can play Neo Nectaris flawlessly on your phone/tablet. It's the kind of game that isn't ruined by touch screen controls.

[hoobs88]

I'm not a fan of the touch screen controls on the iPod version. I prefer the cursor on Military Madness for the Turbob.

[SuperGrafx16]

If you get PCE.emu for Android, you can play Neo Nectaris flawlessly on your phone/tablet. It's the kind of game that isn't ruined by touch screen controls.

So the Android one is better than the iPhone version?

[RegalSin]

virtual game systems and emulators do not count.

[SuperGrafx16]

I still want a comparison between Android Military Madness 2 and iOS Military Madness Neo Nectaris.

[Duo_R]

did anyone add the PSN version?

[SuperGrafx16]

did anyone add the PSN version?

No, because that's based on the original maps and units.  It's called Military Madness: Nectaris, it's not Neo Necaris / Military Madness 2.

[esteban]

I still want a comparison between Android Military Madness 2 and iOS Military Madness Neo Nectaris.

I have not played the Android version, but I'll try to post a review that someone emailed me. I wanted to play the Android version to verify the review, but at this point...

Here are my thoughts on the iOS version:

First, Black_Tiger is absolutely correct: the PCE SuperCD version of Neo Nectaris is the best. If folks can afford it (or emulate it), it is the most satisfying experience. However, the graphically updated ports (iOS and Xbox) are still fun, and some folks might actually prefer the new aesthetics (all the weapon designs are "heftier" and more substantial than the original).  

Second, the touch controls work great! Moving units on the hex grid is so much more pleasurable than using a controller. Some folks won't care either way, but touch controls really increase the immediacy of the handheld experience (you are literally touching the units and the map). For handheld games (iPad included), this is awesome. What's funny is that the touch controls are NOT exceptionally implemented in the iOS version. It is a standard implementation. I wish the developers had actually taken the time to FULLY EXPLOIT the touch UI possibilities. Nonetheless, the iOS touch controls are a BENEFIT to the game.

TRIVIAL: The iOS version takes the cinemas directly from the PCE SuperCD version, which is nice, but does not display it full screen   and provides text as a substitute for the original voice acting. This is trivial, but I don't mind getting pedantic

TRIVIAL: Gone is the gorgeous Red Book soundtrack. iOS does allow you to play your own music, so, technically if you ripped mp3's you'd have a fun time mixing the old with the new (I can't believe I never thought of doing this before!) I was listening to the Valis II soundtrack (one of my faves of all platforms) and it actually worked really well with Neo Nectaris.

BOTTOM LINE: the iOS version is certainly worth getting and does not possess any flaws. From a purists perspective (such as myself) it would have been awesome if they provided the option to play with the original sprites in addition to the updated ones...a small nod to the game's roots).