Space Shuttle Project (1991). Play online

Summary

Space Shuttle Project drops you into the role of a NASA shuttle commander on the NES, where every mission is broken into bite‑size mini‑games. You start by racing against a clock to fire oxygen and hydrogen pumps, load crew members, and ferry them via an elevator while dodging moving bumpers. A quick‑time launch sequence follows, letting you separate boosters and thrust the shuttle into orbit.
Once in space you steer an astronaut through hazards, replenish his air supply, and install components for the ambitious Space Station Freedom, even rescuing a stranded Soviet cosmonaut along the way. After a series of six missions the game pushes you into a final landing sequence at Edwards Air Force Base, culminating in a congratulatory screen with President George H. W. Bush. The oversized instruction manual even contains a full shuttle guidance chart, a rarity for console titles. Although the concept felt novel, AllGame only awarded the title a modest 2.5 out of 5.

Storyline

In Space Shuttle Project (often just called Space Shuttle), you step into the shoes of a shuttle commander charged with launching a NASA Space Shuttle. The game walks you through every pre‑flight step: checking systems, loading the crew, and fueling the vehicle before the countdown.

Once in orbit, you must navigate a series of hazards, perform a daring rescue of a stranded Soviet cosmonaut, and deliver critical components for the construction of Space Station Freedom. Each task is timed and requires precise button inputs to succeed.

The final phase brings the shuttle home, guiding it to a safe landing at Edwards Air Force Base. The mission ends on a celebratory screen where President George H. W. Bush appears to commend your successful flight.