Parasquad ~ Zaxxon's Motherbase 2000 (Japan, USA)
About Parasquad ~ Zaxxon's Motherbase 2000 (Japan, USA)
Parasquad, known in North America as Zaxxon's Motherbase 2000, is an isometric shoot-'em-up released for the SEGA 32X during the add-on's short lifespan around 1995. It's a direct sequel to the arcade classic Zaxxon, bringing the signature angled perspective and fast-paced shooting to Sega's last 16-bit era upgrade. The game saw release in both Japan and the USA, with the Japanese title Parasquad appearing on the same cartridge as the US version in many cases.
You control a hovercraft-like ship through a series of side-scrolling isometric levels. The core loop involves blasting enemy turrets, tanks, and aircraft while navigating narrow pathways and avoiding obstacles. Power-ups for weapons and shields appear occasionally, and each stage ends with a boss encounter requiring pattern recognition. The isometric viewpoint means depth perception is key; you have to lead your shots and watch for enemies that blend into the background.
For fans of classic arcade shooters, this is a solid if not revolutionary entry in the 32X library. It does not reinvent the wheel but stays true to the Zaxxon formula with polished graphics and a decent challenge. The dual name can confuse collectors, but the game itself is a straightforward, enjoyable run-and-gun experience that holds up well today if you appreciate the isometric perspective. It's a niche title worth trying for anyone curious about the 32X's small catalog or the Zaxxon lineage.
How to Play Parasquad ~ Zaxxon's Motherbase 2000 (Japan, USA) Online
Getting Started
After the title screen, press Start to begin. You'll see a brief intro or level select menu depending on the version. Your craft automatically moves forward through the isometric stages. Use the D-Pad to steer left and right, and to move up and down relative to the playfield. The B button fires your primary weapon; hold it for rapid fire. The A button might activate a special attack or jump, but not every version uses it the same way.
The main goal is to survive each level by destroying all enemy units and avoiding collisions with walls and projectiles. Red power-up capsules drop from destroyed enemies; collect them to upgrade your weapon or restore shields. Each stage has a specific boss at the end that appears after a certain number of enemies are eliminated. Study the boss's attack pattern - most have weak points you can hit when they flash.
If you are playing the Japanese version, menus are in Japanese but the gameplay is identical. The only difference is the title screen text. There is no continue or save system; you must beat the game in one sitting. Dying costs a life and you restart at the beginning of the stage. Practice the first level to get a feel for the isometric aim - leading shots is more important than twitch reflexes.
Parasquad ~ Zaxxon's Motherbase 2000 (Japan, USA) Keyboard Controls
Controls
- Arrow Keys: D-Pad / Movement
- X: A button
- S: B button
- Z: C button
- A: X button (6-button pad)
- Q: Y button (6-button pad)
- E: Z button (6-button pad)
- Enter: Start / Mode
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