Changeable Guardian Estique

Changeable Guardian Estique is a side-scrolling shooter with six stages themed around cities around the world. You pilot the transformable robot ESTIQUE, switching between two forms and two types of equipment to fight through the stages.

Story

In 2413, the space pirates Van-De-Raus invade Earth and dominate five major economic cities, taking control of the world economy. The friendly planet Petelgeuse sends reinforcements: ace pilots Mary and Kanon ride ESTIQUE to Earth to fight the pirates.

Forms and combat

ESTIQUE can change form at any time. Fighter Form has a small vertical hitbox, while Robot Form nullifies terrain damage and is suited to recovery. Choosing when to switch forms and between the two equipment types is central to clearing the game. Rapidly firing the shot button activates the Super Weapon, a special attack that also contributes to the scoring system.

A regenerating life system and the absence of power-ups shape the game’s accessible design. Rewind functions are also included.

Versions and gallery

The game includes both the Japanese version, 超翼戦騎エスティーク, and the North American version, Changeable Guardian Estique. They have different stories and some different graphics. Gallery Mode contains the instruction manual, box art and cartridge visuals, and a CRT filter recreates the look of a CRT television. The Japanese and North American Score Attack versions are not included.