• Publisher: SCEA
  • Release Date: May 5, 1998
Metascore
89 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 14 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 14 out of 14
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 14
  3. Negative: 0 out of 14
  1. A masterful game. It is a game with non-stop action and can be pretty tough at times. All of this is combined with just enough of a brainwork requirement to make this game more interactive, hence more enjoyable.
  2. Einhander is one of those games you never want to get rid of, because no matter how good you think you are, it's always a challenge. Combined with the audio and visual elements of this game, Einhander is nothing short of a great gaming experience!
  3. 95
    The graphics in Einhander are stunning. Before this I'd never seen 3D move so swiftly...Great graphics, high difficulty, lots of secrets, breathtaking CG, variety, and a killer soundtrack. There is honestly nothing more than I want out of a shooter than Einhander gives.
  4. Aside from the high level of difficulty (which let's face it, is pretty common in these sorts of games) there isn't anything I don't like about Einhander. Gameplay based on fast reaction times, weapon choice and nerves of steel can't be a bad thing. This game gets your blood pumping just like "RE2" does, except for different reasons.
  5. Great graphics, tight control, amazing sound.
  6. "Einhander" is German for "awesome 2D shooter that should have sold way more that it did." That, or "one-handed." We're not sure. [Feb 2003, p.97]
  7. 90
    Not only did Square 'rekindle' the side-scrolling genre with Einhander, but it has literally surpassed and set the standard - it's one of the best shooters I have ever played.
  8. This really is classic stuff. Most games of this ilk can be effortlessly breezed through within a couple of goes, but not this monster. Despite having ten continues as standard, you''ll lose them within the first three levels -- leaving vast chunks of unexplored terrain that''ll have you begging for extra credits. [JPN Import]
  9. 90
    The foot-tapping techno music tracks accompany each stage perfectly, and the sound effects shine with a plethora of explosions and other sounds of destruction.
  10. A really top of the line shooter. I haven't had this much fun with a game of this type since "Nanotek Warriors". The graphics are gorgeous, the sound effects effective and the level design and missions a blast to play through.
  11. Bristling with style, Square's space shooter is a classic in the genre. The gameplay is fast and furious, and the background graphics look stunning even today. [Nov 2001, p.43] Einhander's huling bosses will blow your mind.
  12. Hands down the BEST side scrolling shooter to come out in the post 16-bit era of video gaming. It has everything going for it: relentless action, beautiful graphics, tons of highly detailed levels, different ships, awesome weapons and an incredible challenge that will keep you coming back for more.
  13. And while the fruit of its efforts may not be the miracle this genre needs for a complete revival, it's just about as good as shooters get.
User Score

Universal acclaim- based on 10 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 8
  2. Negative: 0 out of 8
  1. WillG.
    10
    I disagree with Roger. Personally, I think this game has great playability and is full of action. Although a little slow, Einhander adds a dimension of gameplay that is not easily utilized. On another note, this game is unique in its own way, so classifying it by genre is already pitting it against games that are almost completely different. Full Review »
  2. AntoineS.
    10
    Wonderful game, by Squaresoft. The graphics, the gameplay, the atmosphere - it has everything good going for it. For shooter fans it is a must have as it is easily one of the best shooters of all time. Full Review »
  3. DarthI.
    10
    Best game ever, second only to SMRPG.