Nova 9: The Return of Gir Draxon
| Industry | Video game development |
|---|---|
| Headquarters | United States |
| Products | Nova 9: The Return of Gir Draxon |
Nova 9: The Return of Gir Draxon is a science fiction shooter created by Dynamix and released by Sierra On-Line in 1991 for IBM PC compatibles and the Amiga platform. It serves as the second follow-up to Stellar 7.
Gameplay
In this title, players operate the Raven II, a futuristic armored tank featuring a forward-firing cannon with infinite ammunition, energy shields, and enhanced armor—marking a significant improvement over the previous installment's unprotected vehicle. Damage sustained impacts various tank systems, especially mobility, while players can gather and hold up to nine power-ups; however, some damage can permanently disable these power-up slots. Hidden asteroid bases accessible through warp portals on roughly every alternate planet allow for repairs and permanent enhancements, with certain upgrades necessary to continue the storyline.
Enemy types differ according to themed environments—ranging from dinosaur-inhabited worlds to insectoid territories—with distinctive bosses demanding tactical approaches. The climax involves a three-stage final adversary, Gir Draxon, who commands a formidable super-tank resembling a horned skull. This multi-phase boss encounter was considered advanced for its era.
The game’s worlds consist of looping plains decorated with simple 3D models such as rocks and extraterrestrial flora, set against artistically rendered alien skies. Notably, the game does not include a save function; players have access to two "Continues" before having to restart. Severe damage can critically impair tank performance, sometimes rendering levels impossible to complete due to reduced maneuverability affecting both offense and defense. Nonetheless, the armored Raven II withstands more punishment than the original Stellar 7 tank, which was destroyed once its shields failed.
Plot
Following his defeat in Stellar 7, Gir Draxon crash-lands on an alien planet where he discovers a potent mind-control device. He begins reconstructing his galactic dominion by subjugating various planets. Distress signals transform into broadcasts featuring brainwashed victims. Meanwhile, the protagonist from the previous game has established a covert base within an asteroid belt to develop advanced weaponry against Draxon. Central to this effort is the Raven II heavy tank—a robust successor to the fragile Raven I—accompanied by a robotic repair unit and an AI embodying the personality of his deceased wife, lost during Draxon’s initial assault on Earth.
As the hero progresses through successive worlds dismantling Draxon's forces, enemy agents advance toward the hidden base. Nearing the conclusion, the AI sacrifices the base by destroying it to safeguard Raven II’s technology. After defeating Draxon—who is electrocuted by his own super-tank—the protagonist returns to discover indications that the AI containing his wife’s consciousness might still be active.
Reception
Dragon magazine awarded the game 4.5 out of 5 stars. Computer Gaming World commended its "stunning graphics," demanding gameplay, and smart AI-controlled foes, mentioning only the lack of a save feature as a minor flaw. The publication described it as "an outstanding title for arcade enthusiasts ... a highly professional production."
Reviews
- Amiga Games - October 1992
- Amiga Joker - September 1992