Frontier Force Brings Fresh Shoot 'Em Up Action to SEGA Master System Homebrew Scene

The SEGA Master System, originally launched in 1985, continues to captivate retro gaming enthusiasts nearly forty years after its debut — in no small part due to an active and passionate homebrew developer community.

Among the standout creators, Badcomputer, best known for titles such as Star Runner and Blast Arena, is once again in the spotlight with a brand-new release designed for the iconic SEGA hardware. Badcomputer's latest project, Frontier Force, is a shoot 'em up title for the SEGA Master System and its Japanese counterpart, the Mark III.

This new fixed shooter offers a vibrant refresh to the genre popularized by classics like Space Invaders, delivering fast-paced action and challenging gameplay that promises to satisfy both longtime fans and newcomers to the console. In Frontier Force, players command a heroic character—distinctively decked out in sunglasses and armed with a powerful laser rifle—as they defend earth's last outpost from relentless waves of alien invaders.

The core gameplay centers around moving left and right to dodge incoming projectiles, while retaliating against hostile forces.

With intuitive controls that utilize the Master System controller's D-Pad for weapon selection, the game offers accessibility as well as depth. The game features five varied stages, two bonus rounds to unlock, and an array of boss encounters, including formidable end-stage foes.

Players can choose from six different weapons to suit their playstyle, confronting over forty unique enemy types in graphically rich, colorful Master System environments.

Frontier Force also boasts dynamic difficulty settings, a host of scoring mechanics to master, and an energetic soundtrack composed by Crisp, further heightening the game's retro appeal. Additional highlights of Frontier Force include: - Colorful, authentic SEGA Master System graphics - Six toggleable weapons for strategic gameplay - More than 40 uniquely designed enemies - Dynamic, adjustable difficulty to accommodate all skill levels - Engaging scoring systems for replayability Frontier Force is priced at $4.99 and is currently available through itch.io, complete with a downloadable manual for players who appreciate classic presentation.

Badcomputer's return to the platform underscores the enduring creativity within the SEGA Master System scene and affirms the community's commitment to celebrating the console's legacy with inventive new experiences. For those eager to revisit or discover the thrill of homebrew on the SEGA Master System, Frontier Force stands out as a must-play addition, demonstrating both technical prowess and inventive game design for retro hardware in 2024.

SEGA Homebrew