Console Archives Touki Denshou Angel Eyes brings a 1997 PlayStation port of the Tecmo fighting game to modern hardware. Originally released in arcades in 1996, the title is a one-on-one action fighter where players select from an all-female roster known as the Eight Angels and compete to claim the title of Archangel. The re-release preserves the original Japanese ROM while adding modern conveniences such as adjustable screen settings and button configurations.
Gameplay
The core loop revolves around standard fighting game rules with best-of-three rounds in versus matches. Combat mixes hand-drawn sprites for most characters with occasional polygonal models, creating a distinctive visual style common to mid-1990s titles. Movement includes ground dashes, high jumps, and several aerial options that allow extended air time and pursuit of opponents. A special mechanic called Angel Synchro provides additional abilities during fights. These systems emphasize vertical mobility more than many contemporaries, leading to matches that frequently shift between ground and air exchanges. Button inputs follow classic layouts with specials executed through directional combinations plus attack buttons.
Game Modes
Arcade Mode delivers the original cabinet experience with a ladder of opponents. Story Mode expands on the home console version with fully voiced character intros, endings, and illustrated dialogue sequences that advance after each victory. Training Mode lets players practice moves, timing, and combos against a stationary or recording opponent. Additional unlockables include a CG Gallery of artwork that becomes available after clearing Arcade Mode. The Console Archives edition supports local multiplayer alongside these single-player options and includes save and load functions at any point in a match or menu.
Character Selection and Roster
Players begin by choosing one of the eight primary fighters. Each character features unique normal attacks, special moves, and aerial maneuvers tailored to different play styles. Defeating the arcade ladder unlocks alternate versions of the roster with modified move sets. The emphasis remains on learning individual toolkits rather than broad customization, keeping focus on match-up knowledge and execution.
Technical Presentation and Features
The re-release maintains the original sprite work and sound design while offering quality-of-life adjustments unavailable in the 1997 version. Screen filters, aspect ratio options, and button remapping help adapt the experience to current displays and controllers. Language support for menus and the manual covers English along with several European languages, though the in-game text and voice remain in Japanese. These additions make the title more accessible without altering core balance or content.
Is It Worth Playing?
This archival release suits players interested in 1990s fighting games that experimented with aerial combat mechanics. The inclusion of Story Mode and Training Mode provides structured ways to engage with the roster beyond quick matches. Reception at the time was modest, with critics noting the innovative vertical elements alongside some execution quirks. Modern players who enjoy retro fighters or Tecmo's early output will find value in the preserved gameplay and added conveniences. Those seeking polished contemporary netcode or extensive online features should look elsewhere, as the focus stays on faithful single-player and local play reproduction.
