Phantom 2040 Video Game

The Phantom 2040 video game is a side-scrolling platformer, employing [Metroidvania]-style gameplay. As is common with games of this style, exploration of the various locations the player visits in Phantom 2040 is encouraged, and in some cases needed for completion. The game also offers a host of additional weapons and weapon upgrades for the player to collect. Unlike in other Metroidvania-style games where such upgrades are needed to progress, in Phantom 2040 they are entirely optional, although they do make the game a lot easier to complete, especially as levels grow harder the further the player progresses into the game.

Gameplay

Phantom 2040 is divided up into several chapters, each with three “sections;” a brief introduction to the chapter and then two branching paths. Which of these paths is visited depends on choices players make, usually via dialogue options in cutscenes. Regardless of which choice is made, the player will almost always arrive at the same place at the beginning of the next chapter, however their choice may have caused them to miss items or information that would have led to a “good” ending.

Which bosses, secondary characters and locations are encountered is also affected by the players’ choice, with some events not occurring at all if the incorrect choice is made. This encourages experimentation and re-playability as players try to achieve a “perfect” run through the game.

While the game boasts 20 different endings, some of these only have very slight variations. In truth, there are four endings; perfect, good, bad and very bad. If the player earns any ending apart from perfect, they will be greeted with the message “Try Again” on the game’s end screen.

The action in Phantom 2040 takes the form of the then-common 2D platforming style. The player, as the Phantom, must navigate many varied locations jumping between platforms and environmental objects while avoiding enemies, pitfalls and traps. To help him in his quest against Maddison Inc. the Phantom has many abilities and weapons at his disposal. All physical attacks such as punches and kicks are available at the start of the game, however only a basic Blast Gun and short Inductance Rope can be used at this point. Throughout the game the player can uncover various other weapons, weapon upgrades and extensions for the Rope, to help them in their adventure. Which of these they come across depends on what choices are made throughout the game.

The Phantom has two power bars; his Spirit Meter, which represents health, and an Ammo meter, which is self explanatory. Skulls and Ammo cartridges can be collected to refill these in increments respectively, or First Aid Kits and Ammo Packs can be found to fully replenish them. As with weapons, these bars can also be upgraded so that they last longer.

If the Phantom’s Spirit Meter runs out, he will loose a life. If all lives run out it is game over. Extra lives can be found throughout the game to give players and extra try. Rare items that increase the power of the Phantom’s physical attacks, halve the amount of ammo weapons use, and increase the amount of spirit-energy Skulls provide can also be found, but these appear only particular levels and if missed can not be found elsewhere.