Ginga Fukei Densetsu Sapphire

About

Ginga Fukei Densetsu Sapphire is a 1995 shooter set in a future where time travel fuels crime. You control one of four female pilots in the Burning Rabbits, a police unit hunting lawbreakers across eras. The game mixes fast shooting with strategic ship choices each with distinct strengths in speed, agility, or firepower. Play through five levels spanning futuristic cities, medieval castles, ancient pyramids, and space. Co-op or solo options let you tackle missions as a team or solo. The game stands out for its quirky time-hopping levels and all-female cast. Community reviews highlight the varied settings and tight controls despite aging visuals. While the story is straightforward, the chance to blast enemies in samurai-era Japan or outer space gives it charm. Fans of retro shooters looking for something a little offbeat might find it rewarding. The Turbografx-16 version remains the most accessible release.

Storyline

The story takes place in 2092, when time travel is common across society. Terrorists have taken to stashing weapons and other contraband in the past, which leads to the formation of a police force (composed only of women) to counter the threat. The game follows the chase of one particularly elusive enemy through time. The game is split across five levels, each taking place in a different times and locations: A futuristic city, the Middle Ages, ancient Egypt and Japan, and finally outer space.