ARCADE WATCH
Keeping an eye on the coin-op gaming scene
Time Crisis 5 made its western debut at January’s European Amusement And Gaming Expo, some nine years after the previous entry in the series and after a spate of Japanese location tests.
The enormous deluxe cabinet features twin 55-inch displays to accommodate its co-op campaign, and new takes on the series’ famous handgun controllers. Each delivers a thumping kickback every time you fire thanks to an improved recoil mechanism, while a small orange button just above the trigger allows you to toggle which weapon you’re using.
The cover system has been freshened up, too, with a double foot pedal setup replacing TC4’ s single, larger plate. Stepping on either will shift you to the left or right of your target, while releasing both whips you back into cover. The idea is amply demonstrated early on during the first stage, a tropical resort, when rows of aggressors hide behind riot shields but neglect their soft, kidney-packed flanks.
Two more stages make up the rest of the game: one’s set in an assault helicopter and another takes in a high-speed battle on motorcycles. Bandai Namco is working on a True Mastermind Edition as well, which will feature another three stages. No precise date has been set for either version, but expect to see deluxe cabinets later this year with a single-screen version to follow.