While Astron Belt uses some of the technical advancements of the time to create a visually engaging shooter, that's all it sadly is able to do. The gameplay itself is simply too basic, with the stage progression only resulting in more obstacles to dodge. The core gameplay is painfully simple, being reminiscence of Super Buster Bros. without any of the versatility or gameplay evolution. Before shooting the planets which follow you after falling, your required to shoot the various satellites that orbit said celestial. Oh How they shimmer, changing color along with the various stars which give off the illusion of depth. The look of the game does really help give the title a small bit of uniqueness along with the fact your shooting planets instead of traditional alien fodder. A catchy tune and something to push the gameplay just a bit further would have saved this one from being completely forgettable. The only other element of note beyond the increasing number of denizens of the heavens you must avoid, is a ten second bonus stage every few rounds. It's quite easy and is really just a means to rack up some more points in hopes of a life. Just pick up the spinning astronauts while avoiding whatever gets thrown at you. Being able to switch between the background and foreground like the planets do at the beginning of each stage would have been great. Some kind of weapon pickup, or a boss of sorts. Something that gives way for some kind of strategy beyond move and shoot. sigh Sadly, it just wasn't meant to be I guess.