Undefined Fantastic Object
Undefined Fantastic Object (Japanese: 東方星蓮船 ～ Undefined Fantastic Object.) is the twelfth main game in the Touhou Project series, a collection of scrolling shooter games. Developed by the dōjin game circle Team Shanghai Alice, it was released at the 76th Comiket on August 15, 2009, followed by a retail release on September 11, 2009.
Gameplay Mechanics
This installment of the Touhou Project introduces several new gameplay mechanics that would be employed in the series' subsequent entries. Most notably, it was the first to feature colored power-ups, which reward players with extra lives, points, and bombs when collected. Players must navigate through a total of six stages, defeating enemies and bosses while dodging intricate patterns of projectiles, a hallmark of the danmaku genre.
Plot
The plot of Undefined Fantastic Object revolves around a mysterious flying object, the "Star-Lotus Ship," which appears over the land of Gensokyo. Characters in the game, including Reimu Hakurei and Marisa Kirisame, embark on an adventure to investigate the object, leading to encounters with new and returning characters.
Characters
The game features several notable characters, such as:
- Nue Houjuu: A mythological creature known as a Nue, who presents a mysterious and chaotic presence.
- Byakuren Hijiri: A character central to the game's story, depicted as a monk with powerful abilities.
- Ichirin Kumoi: A character who appears alongside her cloud companion, Unzan.
Development and Legacy
Created by ZUN, Undefined Fantastic Object was developed using the same resources and style as its predecessors, making it instantly recognizable to fans of the series. Its mechanics and narrative elements have influenced subsequent games, cementing its place in the broader Touhou Project.
Continuations and Related Games
Following its release, Undefined Fantastic Object influenced the design and mechanics of later Touhou games, such as Ten Desires and Hopeless Masquerade. It continues to be celebrated within the community for its innovative mechanics and engaging story.