Play Ristar – The Shooting Star Online

Ristar – The Shooting Star is one of those Genesis games that never got the love it deserved. You play as this stretchy little star dude who grabs enemies instead of jumping on them—which feels weirdly satisfying, like popping bubble wrap. The first level throws you into a jungle full of bouncing fruits and goofy-looking bad guys, and within minutes, you're swinging from vines and yeeting enemies into the background.

The art style holds up surprisingly well—bright colors, silly animations, and these weirdly catchy tunes that stick in your head. Every planet has its own vibe, from icy slides to lava-filled factories, and the controls just feel... right. It's slower than Sonic, but in a good way—more about timing and exploration than speedrunning.

Honestly, it's a crime this game isn't more famous. If you missed it back in the '90s, now's your chance to see what the fuss should've been about.