Back in 1997, I was desperate for new Saturn games, so I watched import coverage like a hawk. A fighting game that dared to feature real-time shadows, transparencies, and light-sourcing caught my watchful eye.

Do you long for tales of adventure? Does your heart race at the thought of clashing swords and sorcery? If so, then hear my story of battles fought long ago, deep in the dark wizard’s tower . . .

“And we remembered their innocent youth, the days when all were impressed by their beauty and grace and dignity . . .”

From the very first episode of 1978′s Space Pirate Captain Harlock, it’s obvious that this is Leiji Matsumoto’s original badass. Whether you know him as Harlock or Albator, this is the anime legend that never falters in reminding us what it means to be a man.

If you’re thinking of dropping $400, there are certainly worse things to spend that money on than Sapphire — it’s a great shooter, and I’ll gladly tell you why. But have you considered purchasing it on PSP for only $50, instead?

Some games simply aim to ROCK . . . and with spotlight effects, smooth rotation, spinning polygons, lightning storms, and an unforgettable soundtrack by T’s Music, Sapphire proves itself to be one of those games.