Elemental Gearbolt is one of the few gun games available for the PlayStation game console. 

What did I like about this game?

• The soundtrack is absolutely amazing

• Movement through the game (you need not worry about movement, just shooting) matches the soundtrack perfectly, creating a majestic atmosphere

• There are three different game modes (training, normal and master)

• A new piece of the story is told between each level

• The gun configuration screen allows for accurate shots

• Graphics (both during game-play and the anime sequences between levels)

What did I NOT like about this game?

• Allowing for two players isn't practical if there is the ability to play with only one gun

• The voice acting is difficult to hear/understand at times

• In order to better understand the story, you must refer to research documentation (available after training mode is complete)

The game is two-player, but I wouldn't recommend playing this way because one player is forced to use a regular game controller while the other wields the gun (Namco Guncon or compatible).  There are three different types of gun 'ammunition' that can be used:  blaze phoenix, thunder tiger and water snake.  Blaze phoenix is the easiest to use because of response time.  The other two are difficult to use (despite each separate so-called benefit).  It should be noted that quick, uneven shooting will cause the gun to 'skip'.  Even, calculated shots are important.     

There are six acts to be played, each having their own 'feel' in atmosphere and purpose.  Enemies appear in the same places every time, so challenge decreases the more you play.  It should be noted that special features (e.g. out-takes) are available if you beat the game while in master mode.

What about female characters and degrading material?

You play the game as Nell (first player) or Seana (second player).  The cover art shows a rather revealing depiction of Nell.  In the game, there is one scene with brief nudity (although it's washed out so any detail is hidden).  Game-play is strictly in the first person perspective, so view of the characters isn't an issue except during anime sequences.  Despite the cover art and scene mentioned, there is no other indication of nudity or degrading material.        

- M.A.R.