Panzer Dragoon Orta defines the word "difficulty". Its kid sister, "GunValkyrie" is another game that makes you hurt inside. Making you beg for mercy. But you get that notion "im not backing out.. fuck." and thus you bite your tongue until no more. And the controller goes down, and you take a break.

To tell the truth, I have never seen so many "Retry" screens before. This game is really kicking my butt. Let alone I'm @ Level 4's bosses' (the dragon army) where it takes place after a fight with a cycloptic buddha figure. Frantic. Yes. Frustrating, yeah a lil. But its a welcome challenge I havent had in a long while.

Although I am getting used to the controls.. aw fudge I need to level up Heavy Wing (*one of the tougher dragon modes to use) I'm actually loving the "Glide Mode", not because of its healing factor, but its an "ace" type of playing card. Being able to handle automatic fire against frantic loads of ammo "kissing the sky".

I questioned alot of times "am i gonna make it!?" especially with the Battlefleet in the sky within Level 4. Its insane just how many enemies you take on, and the ship itself (i felt like I was playing Super Mario Bros. 3 all over again, i nearly cried). This is that one time I ever admit that.

Honestly I hope that this series will make a comeback someday. And could possibly make the systems actually test their limits. Whatever these other titles have as "fights in the sky", they have nothing on Panzer Dragoon, period.

And if anyone else passed on Orta, do yourself a favor. Take a weekend and immerse yourself into a fantastic roller coaster ride. Test yourself. And you'll see what pure gaming is really like.