For those who were around to see it, the Dreamcast remains something of a legendary console, too beautiful for this world. Part of that is undoubtedly just a case of rooting for the underdog, but its reputation also comes from how packed the console was with bizarre experiments that immediately won players over. One of those titles hit North America 25 years ago this month, and while it may not be the best game on the Dreamcast, it’s one that deserved better than it got after the console’s end.
Space Channel 5 was first released in Japan in December 1999 before making its way to North America on June 6, 2000. A strikingly original rhythm game, Space Channel 5 was like nothing else on the Dreamcast or any other console at the time, briefly becoming a Sega poster child. The game stars Ulala, a broadcast journalist turned dancer decked out in a ‘60s miniskirt and clutching a microphone. In a future where TV news stations are locked in a fierce battle for ratings, an alien invasion sees Ulala fighting against the invaders with the power of dance and laser guns while continuing to report on the alien threat — a true professional.
