Re: Arcade Archives STG List [15/05/25: NebulasRay]

[BIL]

Howdy. Here is a quick reference of STGs in Hamster's ongoing Arcade Archives project, using current Hi Score forum eligibility. For further discussions, please see cave hermit's ACA General Thread.

✔ = Nominated for the 20th Annual Top 25! ❤ = Placed in the Top 25 / Hon. Mentions! (CTRL+F symbol to quick search )

Arcade Archives STGs:

Spoiler

• Currently supported platforms are PlayStation 4 and Switch.
• Asian (AS) region releases are presently PS4-only.
• Jaleco-published games are currently unavailable in Asia region.

A
A-JAX, aka Typhoon	Konami	1987	JP / NA / EU / AS	Both regions included. Xevious-type heli stages with After Burner 3D dogfights interspersed.
Argus	NMK, via Jaleco	1986	JP / NA / EU, Switch-only / AS	NMK's debut, a notedly tough Xevious-styled vert.
ASO: Armored Scrum Object, aka Alpha Mission	SNK	1985	JP / NA / EU, Switch-only / AS	Includes JP region only. Xevious ground bomber featuring an innovative "Power Armor" system.
Ark Area	UPL	1989	JP / NA & EU, Switch-only / AS	Topdown arena STG with locking strafe. Sequel to Nova 2001. UPL visual effects known to raise false alarms with PCB owners!
Armed F, aka Formation Armed F ✔	Nichibutsu	1988	JP / NA / EU / AS	Terrain-intense, Gunpod-driven vert whose formation mechanics recall Nichibutsu's earlier Crestas.
Assault ✔	Namco	1988	JP / NA / EU / AS	Early & Later revs. Topdown tanking seek/destroy, featuring hardcore twin-stick driving in a rotating battlefield. Optional simple controls.
Assault Plus	Namco	1988	JP / NA / EU / AS	Compiles two arrangements of the rugged tank game: newbie-friendly Easy Assault, and fearsome Super Assault, expressly "for maniacs."
Atomic Robo-Kid	UPL	1988	JP / NA & EU, Switch-only / AS	Uses "Type 2" revision. Push-scrolling jetpack hori with locking strafe and vivid UPL style.

B
Baraduke, aka Alien Sector	Namco	1985	JP / NA / EU / AS	Includes JP region only. 8-way jetpack hori search & rescue, combining furious shooting with tricky hostage escorts. Famously cute/creepy style.
Baraduke 2: Bakutotsu Kijuutei	Namco	1988	JP / NA / EU / AS	Switches to push-scrolling hori format, with the same striking chibi-horror air. Rescued FRIENDOs fight alongside your "Explosive Machinegun Boat."
Black Heart ✔	NMK, via UPL	1991	JP / NA / EU / AS	Includes JP and English versions. Fast-paced NMK hori with dragonrider protagonist. ENG rev differs significantly, dragon now blocks bullets.
Bosconian	Namco	1981	JP / NA / EU / AS	Old and New revs included. Pioneering topdown 8-way seek/destroy.
Blast Off	Namco	1989	JP / NA / EU / AS	Bosconian sibling switches to trad vertical scrolling with a Charge Shot and freely-switchable four way arsenal.
Burning Force	Namco	1989	JP / NA / EU / AS	Space Harrier-style 3D STG. Switches from ground-based bike to full 8-way jetfighter for bosses.

C
Chouji Meiykuu Legion, aka Spinner '87	Nichibutsu	1987	JP / NA / EU / AS	Hectic, inventive vert. Features a time-rewinding bomb, unique ship with autonomous turrets, and mid-air hostage rescues. Adds stage+loop display, and P1/P2 ship select.
City Bomber	Konami	1987	JP / NA / EU / AS	Topdown racing STG, combining Spy Hunter's air-to-ground battle with ramming and jumping elements of Road Fighter and Burnin' Rubber. (latter two on ACA)
Cosmo Gang The Video	Namco	1992	JP / NA / EU / AS	Exuberant spiritual successor to the Galaxian series. Exceptionally characterful style.
Cotton ~ Fantastic Night Dreams ✔	Success	1991	JP / NA / EU / AS	JP & EN revs. Option & Charge Shot-driven hori in whimsical chibi-horror mode, with tricky item juggles and walloping Bombas. Adds specially-tuned 30hz autofire.
Crazy Cop, aka Gang Busters	Konami	1988	JP / NA / EU / AS	Hardcore topdown run/gun with uniquely devious "soccer" scoring. Punt the "ROCK" through all four stages for insane bonus! Optional ammo and ROCK HP display.
Cybattler ✔	Jaleco	1993	JP / NA / EU	Vertical mecha shoot/slash with 8-way locking strafe. Striking anime style. Adds custom Rapid Strafe Shot button, fixes the janky HS name entry.

D
Dangerous Seed ✔	Namco	1989	JP / NA / EU / AS	Vert with unique "Voltron" progression. Clear the opening stages without losing ships, survivors unite for the lategame.
Daioh ✔	Athena	1993	JP / NA / EU / AS	JP 2-button & US 6-button regions included. Well-loved vert with many nods to Toaplan's Tatsujin. Adds Rank gauge, and optional counter-stop fix.
Darius ✔ ❤	Taito	1986	JP / NA / EU / AS	Old, New & Extra revs included. Famous two-screen 2P hori with branching stages and iconic boss roster.
Darius II ✔	Taito	1989	JP / NA & EU, Switch-only / AS	Features the three-screen rev, in its debut home translation. (two-screen rev is available in M2's Darius Cozmic Collection AC)
Darwin 4078	Data East	1986	JP / NA / EU / AS	Fast-moving Xevious-type. Features a unique "mutation" powerup system, with myriad branching forms.
Dead Connection	Taito	1992	JP / NA / EU / AS	Novel beltview arena STG in roaring 20s style. Whack the mob with heavy artillery and cunning traps! JP+EN text, ammo display and P1/2 switch.
Detana!! Twinbee, aka Bells & Whistles ✔	Konami	1991	JP / NA / EU / AS	Both regions included. Gorgeously-produced sequel to the Xevious-styled bell juggler.
Dogosoken, aka Victory Road	SNK	1986	JP / NA / EU / AS	Includes JP region only. Sequel to Ikari, where bullet-deflecting melee is key. Optional simplified controls.
Donkey Kong 3	Nintendo	1983	JP / NA / EU	Gallery STG starring iconic gorilla and many angry bees. Switch exclusive.
Dragon Spirit	Namco	1987	JP / NA / EU / AS	Old & New revs included. Fantasy-themed Xevious successor with massively beefed-up firepower.
Dragon Saber	Namco	1990	JP / NA / EU / AS	Futuristic 2P sequel, introduces immense Charge Shot. Adds P1/P2 dragon select.

E
Earth Defense Force ✔	Jaleco	1991	JP / NA / EU	2P hori with varied loadouts, transformable Options, and score-driven weapon upgrades. Tsukasa Sawada's BGM an eccentric, groovy genre highlight.
Exerion	Jaleco	1983	JP / NA / EU	Hybrid gallery STG / flight sim with ripping machinegun subweapon, and impressive parallax depth-of-field effects.

F
F/A, aka Fighter & Attacker	Namco	1992	JP	Includes JP region only. Masterpiece Xevious-type with acclaimed techno BGM. Features asynchronous A/B autofire, with custom low-frequency options.
Fighting Hawk	Taito	1988	JP / NA / EU / AS	Vertical STG closely modeled on Toaplan's epochal Hishouzame. (available in M2's Toaplan Arcade Garage Vol. 2) Notably self-contained, with just a single loop.
Finalizer: Super Transformation	Konami	1985	JP / NA / EU / AS	Authentic mecha-themed vert, each mighty arm equippable with its own independently-firing weapon. Aggressive body-ramming attack prefigures Compile's Zanac.
Final Star Force	Tecmo	1992	JP / NA / EU / AS	Guns-blazing 2P sequel to the pioneering 80s score attacker. Adds an optional fix for the PCB's infinite boss milks, plus slowdown reduce and 1P/2P ship switch.
Flak Attack, aka MX5000	Konami	1987	JP / NA / EU / AS	Both regions included. (matches to system language) Xevious-styled vert, switches to free 8-way shooting for bosses. Novel score-driven weapon upgrades.
Formation Z	Jaleco	1984	JP / NA / EU	Transforming mecha hybrid of hori STG and run/gun.
Front Line	Taito	1983	JP / NA / EU / AS	Grandpappy of rotary battlefield STGs ala Ikari, complete with stealable tanks. Optional simplified controls.

G
Galaxian	Namco	1979	JP / NA / EU / AS	Namco's STG debut, a crisp competitor to Taito's pioneering titan Space Invaders. Debut 1970s ACA entry!
Galaga ✔	Namco	1981	JP / NA / EU / AS	Early & Final revs included. Legendary gallery sequel, introduces an innovative capture/rescue mechanic.
Gaplus	Namco	1984	JP / NA / EU / AS	Old & New revs included. Third Galaxian entry, marketed as "Galaga 3" in the West. New "tractor beam" mechanic lets you capture hordes of enemies for massive firepower.
Galaga '88 ✔	Namco	1987	JP / NA / EU / AS	Fourth Galaxian title debuts unique multi-layered stages, player navigating via optional "Dimension Warps."
Gemini Wing ✔	Tecmo	1987	JP / NA / EU / AS	Cute yet fierce 2P vert. Pairs charming fantasy to heavy firepower, with an outstanding Metal Yuhki OST. Known for its highly unique "Gunball" item system.
Gradius, aka Nemesis ✔ ❤	Konami	1985	JP / NA / EU / AS	Gradius JP ROM & Bubble System (hidden) + Nemesis US & EU revs included. Legendary hori pioneer, introduces iconic powerup bar and Option weapons.
Gradius II, aka Vulcan Venture ✔ ❤	Konami	1988	JP / NA / EU / AS	Gradius II Old/New/Newer and Vulcan Venture Old/New revs included. Revered sequel introduces multiple weapon loadouts.
Gradius III ✔	Konami	1989	JP / NA / EU / AS	JP Old+New & Asia revs included. Super-tough sequel introduces Weapon Edit. ACA Xmas Special, has training mode with hitbox viewer, stage/weapon select, and myriad options.
Grobda	Namco	1984	JP / NA / EU / AS	Early & Later revs included. Intricately technical, topdown tank battler from Xevious creator Masanobu Endo.
Guevara, aka Guerrilla War	SNK	1987	JP / NA / EU / AS	Includes JP region only. Tough third and final Ikari adds tricky hostage rescues. (canonical Ikari III switches to topdown brawling) Optional simplified controls.
Gun Frontier, aka Gun & Frontier ✔ ❤	Taito	1990	JP / NA / EU / AS	Inc. both regions. Takatsuna Senba's gritty "Space Western" vert, famously influenced Raizing's Battle Garegga. (part of M2's ShotTriggers) Adds Rank-tuned autofire.
Gunnail ✔	NMK	1993	JP / NA / EU / AS	JP & English revs included. Gunpod-driven vert with sharp cyberpunk aesthetic, where less lives = more score. Adds Alarm SFX toggle.

H
Hacha Mecha Fighter ✔	NMK	1991	JP / NA / EU / AS	JP & English revs included. Adorable, uncomplicated, yet ruggedly tough NMK hori, combining Gradius-style Options with an instant bomb.
Halley's Comet ✔	Taito	1986	JP / NA / EU / AS	Early innovator of massive vertical firepower, rivalling 90s titans. Big guns required, as escaping zako chip away your Earth Defense gauge!
Holy Warrior Amaterasu, aka Soldier Girl Amazon	Nichibutsu	1986	JP / NA / EU / AS	Both regions included. Topdown run/gun with emphasis on Galaga-style enemy formations, and POW mode via a stealable, upgradeable hover bike.

I
Ikari, aka Ikari Warriors	SNK	1986	JP / NA / EU / AS	Includes JP region only. Topdown rotary run/gun ala Front Line with intense chain-explosions. Optional simplified controls.
Ikki, aka Farmer's Rebellion	Sunsoft	1985	JP / NA / EU / AS	JP region only. Topdown run & gun / treasure hunt, in charming-yet-hardcore feudal guerrilla style. Unique auto-aiming shot, with aggressive melee powerup.
Image Fight ✔	IREM	1988	JP / NA / EU / AS	Classic tactical vert with fiendish puzzlebox stage design. Preserves the PCB's onboard stage select. Adds asynchronous A/B autofire and Pod Shoot macro.
Itazura Tenshi	Nichibutsu	1984	JP / NA / EU / AS	Whimsical Greek-mythological take on Bosconian. Seek and restore the constellations via free-scrolling, 8-way topdown shooting.

J
Jungler	Konami	1981	JP / NA / EU / AS	Unusual shooting-driven hybrid of topdown maze chaser and Snake.
Juno First	Konami	1983	JP / NA / EU / AS	Unique "scrolling gallery" vert, whose manual seek/destroy recalls Defender. Innovative burst chaining; speedkill enemies during "Fever Mode" for stacking bonuses. Optional score display fix.

K
Kaitei Daisensou, aka In The Hunt ✔	IREM	1993	JP / NA / EU / AS	Both regions included. Manually-scrolling submarine hori with novel surface-to-air battling. Legendary pixel art by the future Nazca.
KiKi KaiKai	Taito	1986	JP / NA / EU, Switch-only / AS	JP & World regions included. Japanese folklore-themed, multi-scrolling topdown run/gun with melee deflect. Popularly revived by Natsume for Super Famicom.
King & Balloon ✔	Namco	1980	JP / NA / EU / AS	Gallery STG with unique premise. Player turret repairs after taking damage, enemies stealing ur King is real threat. "Herupu!"
Koutetsu Yousai Strahl	UPL	1992	JP / NA, Switch-only / EU / AS	Previous & New revs included. Hori featuring extensive custom loadouts and massive, bullet-cancelling explosions.

L
Land, Sea & Air: Front Line	Taito	1986	JP / NA / EU / AS	Topdown run/gun sequel to pioneering Front Line, swapping rotary aim for point n' shoot. Adds marine and aerial combat with accuracy-driven scoring. Optional Hit Rate display.

M
Mad Shark ✔	Moss, via Allumer	1993	JP / NA / EU / AS	Raidenesque straight from ex-Seibu Kaihatsu staff at Moss, developers of Raiden III onward. Adds P1/P2 ship select.
MagMax	Nichibutsu	1985	JP / NA / EU / AS	Beltscrolling horizontal STG with Voltron mecha-building.
Marchen Maze	Namco	1988	JP / NA / EU / AS	Isometric run/gun platformer in whimsical style. All about charge-shotting enemies into the void without getting bumped yourself. Optional isometrised movement.
Markham	Sunsoft	1983	JP / NA / EU / AS	Distinctive, little-mentioned early hori. Unusual nose up/down aiming, and an innovative player-guided missile, integral to sniping boss weakpoints.
Master of Weapon	Taito	1989	JP / NA / EU / AS	Fast-paced Xevious-type with memorable apocalyptic theme. Adds a much-needed bullet strobing fix! Autofire tailored for inbuilt rapid shot.
Mazinger Z	Banpresto	1994	JP / NA / EU / AS	Mecha-themed vert with bullet-cancelling melee. Banpresto's ACA debut, based on classic Go Nagai manga. Adds an optional counter-stop fix. "Majiiin!"
Megablast	Taito	1988	JP / NA / EU / AS	Hori STG with unusual and generous four-way firepower.
Metal Black ✔ ❤	Taito	1991	JP / NA / EU / AS	JP & INT revs included. Surreal "science-fantasy" hori with distinctive aura shot, and G-Darius / Border Down-inspiring beam duels. (M2's G-Darius HD on PS4/NSW/PC)
Metal Hawk ✔	Namco	1988	JP / NA / EU / AS	JP & English revs included. Heli-based topdown seek/destroy with twin-stick piloting. Close sibling of Assault. Wide range of control settings.
Mighty Guy	Nichibutsu	1987	JP / NA / EU / AS	Topdown run/gun with uncommon martial arts aspect. Punches, flying kicks, and a jumping dodge, plus a unique player-guided beam weapon on meter.
Moon Cresta	Nichibutsu	1980	JP / NA / EU / AS	Fast-paced gallery STG with innovative ship combination mechanic. Runs on Galaxian hardware, well-noted in its own right.
Moon Patrol	IREM	1982	JP / NA / EU / AS	Sidescrolling vehicular STG / time trial, starring a hopping buggy equipped with vertical and horizontal fire. Noted for its innovative parallax BGs.
Moon Shuttle	Nichibutsu	1981	JP / NA / EU / AS	Classically economical scoot/shoot gallery STG gone horizontal.

N
Navarone	Namco	1980	JP / NA / EU / AS	Ancient monochrome gallery STG with unique three-sided playfield, and deceptively finessed scoring. Simulates the kit's colour screen overlays!
NebulasRay	Namco	1994	JP / NA / EU / AS	Namco's arcade STG swan song, a formidably-produced vertical epic. ACA 11th Anniversary release, a long-awaited debut! Adds P1/P2 ship swap.
Nova 2001	UPL	1983	JP / NA / EU / AS	Topdown arena STG with locking strafe. Unusually destructible item drops demand careful shooting. Predecessor of Ark Area.

O
Omega Fighter ✔	UPL	1989	JP / NA / EU, Switch-only / AS	Original & Special revs, plus intriguing "SpecialMode." Innovative vert with proximity multiplier, bullet time, and inbuilt autofire. Incredible game-length "Huge Battleship" raid!
Ordyne ✔	Namco	1988	JP / NA / EU / AS	JP & English revs included. Beautifully-produced 2P hori cute 'em up with customisable loadouts via in-stage shops.

P
P47: The Phantom Fighter, aka P47 Thunderbolt ✔	NMK, via Jaleco	1988	JP / NA / EU	Includes JP region only. NMK's debut hori, an austere military STG recalling Scramble, with smooth Sizzla "Viewpoint" Okamura OST.
Phelios ✔	Namco	1989	JP / NA / EU / AS	Epic fantasy vert whose Options and Charge Shot recall both Salamander and R-Type. Includes custom charge shot autofire.
Phozon	Namco	1983	JP / NA / EU / AS	Unique topdown "build 'em up." Assemble a mighty ship via skilled ramming attacks, then unleash its power in special rounds.
Pistol Daimyo no Bouken	Namco	1990	JP / NA / EU / AS	Uniquely ballistic hori in vivid gag manga style, featuring a lobbing Charge Shot. Includes custom charge shot autofire.
Plus Alpha	Jaleco	1989	JP / NA / EU	Charming vert cute 'em up, featuring three-in-one transforming ship. Uniquely militant style with legions of windup baddies.
Pooyan	Konami	1982	JP / NA / EU / AS	Super-inventive "tower defense" gallery STG, by future Capcom legend Tokuro Fujiwara.
Pop Flamer	Jaleco	1982	JP / NA / EU	Topdown vertically-scrolling run-gun / collect 'em up.

Q
Quarth, aka Block Hole ✔	Konami	1989	JP / NA / EU / AS	Both regions included. Gallery STG / puzzle hybrid in charming Victorian whimsy. Use precise shots to save Earth from falling blocks.

R
Rabio Lepus, aka Rabbit Punch	Video System	1987	JP / NA / EU / AS	Includes JP region only. Video System's debut STG, a comedic-yet-tough hori with proximity-based melee.
Radical Radial	Nichibutsu	1982	JP / NA / EU / AS	Vertical STG/racing hybrid starring a heavily-armed tyre.
Raiden ✔ ❤	Seibu Kaihatsu	1990	JP / NA / EU / AS	JP & International revs included. Iconic Toaplanesque vert and storied name. Adds coin-in RNG control, starting Loop select, and P1/P2 ship select.
Raiga, aka Strato Fighter	Tecmo	1991	JP / NA / EU / AS	Customarily fine-made Tecmo hori, with integral pivot mechanic, and several unique support mechs. Adds P1/P2 ship select.
Rezon	Allumer	1991	JP / NA / EU / AS	Notedly overt R-Type copycat. Adds its own spin with locking "bayonet" module.
Riot	Tecmo	1992	JP / NA / EU / AS	Clever scrolling riff on Cabal's carnival shooter. Adds third lane, player battling enemies in fore/background. Little-seen in Japan! NMK published overseas.

S
Salamander + Life Force ✔ ❤	Konami	1986/87	JP / NA / EU / AS	Includes Salamander, plus Life Force US & JP. Classic 2P hori/vert hybrid and Gradius sibling. Saw many changes across its three incarnations.
Sasuke vs. Commander	SNK	1980	JP / NA / EU / AS	Formative gallery STG, known for its innovative boss rounds.
Scramble	Konami	1981	JP / NA / AS	Landmark early hori, pairing intense terrain to precision bombing. Named by Gradius Generation as the Konami's flagship's origin.
Scramble Formation aka Tokio	Taito	1986	JP / NA / EU / AS	Xevious-style vert with efficient shooter/bomber formation control, and a crisp Tokyo-metropolitan aesthetic.
Sea Fighter Poseidon	Taito	1984	JP / NA / EU / AS	Subnautical vehicle-stealing hori, featuring impressively finessed hijack mechanics amidst treacherous terrain.
Sector Zone aka Seicross	Nichibutsu	1984	JP / NA / EU / AS	Both regions included. Beltscrolling vehicular STG with hostage rescue scoring, and violent "bumper car" clashes.
Senjyo	Tecmo	1983	JP / NA / EU / AS	Cabal-prefiguring carnival STG, set on a uniquely intense 360' battlefield. Fast pace makes for an excellent Caravan game!
Silkworm	Tecmo	1988	JP / NA / EU / AS	2P hori with unique heli and jeep duo, designed around hyper-aggressive ramming and bombing. Adds vehicle select.
Sky Kid ✔	Namco	1985	JP / NA / EU / AS	Unusually left-scrolling hori in cute Mappy style, centered on precision bombing. Features uncommon nose up/down aim, and acrobatic loop.
Sky Kid DX	Namco	1986	JP / NA / EU / AS	Next-year update adds several new stages, and hazardous weather conditions.
Sky Skipper	Nintendo	1981	JP / NA / EU	Switch exclusive. Unique single-screen STG. A "lost game" for many decades, resurrected via ACA.
Sonic Wings, aka Aero Fighters ✔	Video System	1992	JP / NA / EU / AS	Both regions included. Shin Nakamura's streamlined, intense vert with wide range of ships. Dawn of Psikyo! Adds P1/P2 ship select.
Space Cruiser	Taito	1981	JP / NA / EU / AS	Unique, strikingly well-presented "thrill ride" STG. Features a number of unique scenarios deployed in rapid succession.
Space Seeker	Taito	1981	JP / NA / EU / AS	Unique hybrid of hori STG and Gun Shooting turret scenes.
Star Force ✔	Tecmo	1984	JP / NA & EU, Switch-only	Legendary adrenaliser of early vert scrolling, with blistering-fast waves. Inspired a generation of Carnival STGs via Hudson's smash FC port.
Strike Gunner S.T.G.	Athena	1991	JP / NA / EU / AS	Athena's STG debut, a subweapons-laden vert recalling Compile's Aleste. Adds P1/P2 ship select.
Super Cobra	Konami	1981	JP / NA / EU / AS	Sequel to Scramble. Continues the intense terrain focus, adding treasure-stealing BOOTY mechanic.
Super Dimension Fortress Macross ✔	NMK, via Banpresto	1992	JP	Fiery vert tribute to the iconic anime, built upon NMK's intense Thunder Dragon. Adds Medal+Rank HUD, Loop 2 start, and P1/P2 switch.
Super Xevious	Namco	1984	JP / NA / EU / AS	Upgrade kit sequel to Masanobu Endo's genre-defining icon. Expressly designed for Xevious veterans craving a tougher challenge!

T
TANK, aka TNK III	SNK	1985	JP / NA / EU / AS	JP rev only. Pioneering topdown tanker from Koji "Ikari" Obada. Rotary turret versus epic multi-scrolling map. Optional simple controls.
Tank Battalion	Namco	1980	JP / NA / EU / AS	Topdown tank arena with tactical map destruction. "BANZAI" enemies for bonus! Sequel Battle City is on M2's Namco Museum Archives Vol 2.
Tank Force	Namco	1991	JP / NA / EU / AS	Includes JP 2P & EN 2P+4P revs. Third Tank Battle massively ups its range of weapons and foes. Cooperate and compete to save the base!
Task Force Harrier	NMK, via UPL	1989	JP / NA / EU / AS	Gritty Cold War vert. Adds bullet-blocking Gunpods to a Xevious base. Only accurate emulation - MAME lacks its unique slowdown routine.
Tatakae! Big Fighter	Nichibutsu	1989	JP / NA / EU / AS	Nichibutsu's STG/ACT swan song, a mecha hori with the innovative transformation attacks that became their signature.
Tenseiryuu, aka Saint Dragon ✔	NMK, via Jaleco	1989	JP / NA / EU	Includes JP region only. Techno/mythic hori in tactical IREM mode, with great Sizzla Okamura BGM. Bullet-blocking tail recalls Dragon Breed.
Terra Cresta ✔	Nichibutsu	1985	JP / NA / EU / AS	Well-regarded vert, known for its innovative formation mechanics. Includes PSG, YM22023 & YM3526 soundtracks.
Terra Force	Nichibutsu	1987	JP / NA & EU, Switch-only / AS	Cresta sibling, an innovatively player-switchable vert/hori hybrid. Titanic firepower, correspondingly forgiving difficulty.
Thunder Ceptor	Namco	1986	JP / NA, NSW / EU, NSW / AS	Galaxy Force II-prefiguring 3D STG/flight sim. Extensive control settings. Optional new BGM from original composer!
3D Thunder Ceptor II	Namco	1986	JP / NA / EU / AS	Sequel features even trickier courses to negotiate. Doesn't emulate the board's eponymous 3D effects, sadly.
Thunder Cross ✔	Konami	1988	JP / NA / EU / AS	Includes JP Old + New, NA & EU revs. Hori with distinctive Option controls, referenced by Gradius V's Type 3 ship. Adds P1/P2 ship select.
Thunder Cross II	Konami	1991	JP / NA / EU / AS	Sequel brings bigger guns, and a notably storming OST from Metal Yuhki. Adds P1/P2 ship select.
Thunder Dragon ✔	NMK, via Tecmo	1991	JP / NA / EU / AS	Intensely bomb-driven vert set to storming punk/metal BGM. Prelude of SDF Macross and its own acclaimed sequel TD2. Latency reduce option.
Thunder Dragon 2 ✔ ❤	NMK, via Tecmo	1993	JP / NA / EU / AS	Renowned sequel with Bonus Waves prefiguring Dangun Feveron. (on M2's ShotTriggers) More kills = more waves = more kills. P1/P2 ship select.
Time Pilot	Konami	1982	JP / NA / EU / AS	Free-scrolling topdown arena STG in whimsical style. Impressive 32-way firepower!
Time Pilot '84	Konami	1984	JP / NA / EU / AS	Harder-edged sequel adds ground enemies, and lockon homing missiles to deal with them.
Tin Star, The	Taito	1983	JP / NA / EU / AS	Unique gallery shooter. Rotary-aimed belt-view gunfighting. Optional simplified controls.
Tokushu Butai Jackal, aka Top Gunner	Konami	1986	JP / NA / EU / AS	Includes Jackal JP & EN revs, latter with locked vertical machinegun. Topdown drive n' gun, all about rescuing POWs under heavy fire.
Toy Pop	Namco	1986	JP / NA / EU / AS	Maze-based topdown run & gun / collect 'em up. Unique "element shot" system adds tactical pressure.
Trigon, aka Lightning Fighters	Konami	1990	JP / NA / EU / AS	Both regions included. Konami's tough Toaplan-esque vert. Adds optional hitbox reduce.
Tube Panic	Nichibutsu	1984	JP / NA / EU / AS	3D STG with innovative 360' radial playfield.
Turbo Force	Video System	1991	JP / NA / EU / AS	Includes Old, New & North American revs. Video System's rookie vert, infamously RNG-driven. Adds P1/P2/P3 car select.
Tutankham	Konami	1982	JP / NA / EU / AS	Maze-based topdown run/gun, featuring a unique two-way fire system.
Twinbee	Konami	1985	JP / NA / EU / AS	Includes Bubble System & ROM revs. Smash hit vertical cute 'em up. Augments its Xevious base with tricky bell-juggle scoring.

U
Uchuu Senkan Gomorrah, aka Bio-Ship Paladin	UPL	1990	JP / NA / EU / AS	Both regions included. Hori STG with notoriously beefy ship, balanced by unique crosshair-driven bullet cancelling.
USAAF Mustang ✔	NMK, via UPL	1990	JP / NA / EU / AS	Aggressive sequel to P47, trades terrain for relentless speed. Adds P1/P2 ship select.

V
Vandyke	UPL	1990	JP / NA / EU / AS	Fantasy-themed topdown shooter/slasher, featuring a bullet-cancelling sword, a selection of shot types, and a jump mechanic for platforming and dodging alike.
Viper Phase 1 ✔	Seibu Kaihatsu	1995	JP / NA / EU / AS	Includes both Old and New revisions. Hardcore vertical STG ala Toaplan, with spectacular aesthetics and fiendish score potential. A long-awaited home debut!
VS. Battle City	Namco	1985	JP / NA / EU / AS	Superbly-balanced middle entry of Namco's Tank Battalion trilogy. Debut home release of its arcade VS System port! (FC original is on M2's Namco Museum Archives Vol.2)
VS. Gradius	Konami	1986	JP / NA / EU / AS	Port of Konami's solid, ultra-popular Famicom Gradius to arcade VS System.
VS. Star Luster	Namco	1985	JP / NA / EU / AS	Space dogfighter sim with ambitious realtime navigation. A cult hit in its day, since widely revered. Port of the Famicom original to arcade VS System.
VS. Super Xevious: GAMP no Nazo	Namco	1986	JP / NA / EU / AS	Not to be confused with the arcade Super Xevious, also on ACA. Port of the Famicom "Mystery of GAMP" to VS System. Unique STG with "riddle-based" stage progression.

W
War of Aero	Allumer	1993	JP / NA / EU / AS	Quality tribute to IREM's classic Image Fight. Preserves the PCB's onboard stage & weapon select options. Adds Pod Flip priority switch, and P1/P2 ship select.
Warp & Warp	Namco	1981	JP / NA / EU / AS	Topdown arena hybrid of conventional run/gun and Bomberman-prefiguring maze action. Adds optional aim-assisting grid.
Wild Western	Taito	1982	JP / NA / EU, Switch-only / AS	Topdown rotary STG with unique horseback concept. Blast train robbers, dodge their runaway steeds. Interesting ricochet and train-boarding mechanics.

X
X-Multiply ✔	Allumer	1989	JP / NA / EU / AS	Hori with iconic tentacle weapons and demonic biohorror theme. Known as an ideal first IREM clear, accessible yet authentically devious. Approximates the PCB's crazy 60hz autofire.
Xevious ✔ ❤	Namco	1982	JP / NA / EU / AS	Legendary innovator of scrolling verts. Known for its pioneering air-to-ground shot. Adds many performance tweaks, plus optional logo burn-in simulation. :O
XEXEX, aka Orius ✔	Konami	1991	JP / NA / EU / AS	Includes XEXEX JP & EU revs, plus Orius. (NA) Konami's celebrated hori IREMesque, featuring an innovative autonomous Force Pod, and walloping Charge Shots.
XX Mission	UPL	1986	JP / NA / EU / AS	Xevious-style vert with straitlaced military theme. Player jet's odd transform mechanic presages UPL's wild late 80s run.

Y
Youjyuden, aka Heroic Episode	IREM	1985	JP / NA / EU, Switch-only / AS	Includes JP region only. Greek mythology-themed hybrid of Senjou no Okami run/gun and Xevious STG.
Youma Ninpou Chou, aka Ninja Emaki	Nichibutsu	1986	JP / NA / EU / AS	Includes JP and INT revs. Japanese folklore-themed run/gun with an impressive eight weapon arsenal, freely-selectable during POW mode.

Z
Zing Zing Zip	Allumer	1992	JP / NA / EU / AS	Vertical STG with juxtaposition of madcap character art and rugged military aesthetic. Novel command input for its i-framed, shot-boosting barrel roll.

Arcade Archives NeoGeo STGs:

Spoiler

• Currently supported platforms are PlayStation 4, Switch, Xbox One, Windows PC, Android, and iOS.
• All include JP and English revisions.
• Twinkle Star Sprites is currently unavailable on non-Japanese PSN; however, the Japan release still includes the English ROM.
• Strikers 1945 Plus is currently unavailable on Android and iOS.

ACA NeoGeo
ASO II: Last Guardian, aka Alpha Mission II	SNK	1991	Topdown vert sequel. Builds on ASO's unique "Power Armor" concept with intricate upgrade system.
Blazing Star ✔ ❤	Yumekobo, formerly Aicom	1998	Action-packed hori with large ship roster. Acclaimed for involved scoring and legendary Engrish.
Ghost Pilots	SNK	1991	Straitlaced Toaplan-style vert. Unusual choice of seaplane player craft.
Last Resort	SNK	1992	Force Pod and Charge Shot-driven R-Typesque by former IREM staff.
NAM-1975	SNK	1990	Cabal-style carnival shooter. Known for its intense dodge roll-driven action and raucous cod-Kubrickisms.
Ninja Commando	ADK	1992	Topdown run/gun with FTG-style command moves.
Operation Ragnarok, aka Zed Blade ✔	NMK	1994	Fast-moving, bomb-happy hori with intense Manabu Namiki BGM.
Prehistoric Isle 2 ✔	Yumekobo, formerly Aicom	1999	Includes both the 3 life and healthbar revisions. Latter-day sequel to SNK's 1989 hori, featuring rescue-based scoring.
Pulstar ✔ ❤	Yumekobo, formerly Aicom	1995	Quality R-Type tribute, actually not by ex-IREM staff. ;3
Shock Troopers ✔	Saurus	1997	Uses the "three lifebars" revision. Revered 2P topdown run/gun with strafe lock, proximity melee, and dodge roll. Features "Lonly Wolf" and "Team Battle" modes.
Shock Troopers 2nd Squad	Saurus	1998	Sequel swaps the dodge roll for a similarly i-framed, steerable jump, adding vehicle hijacking complete with Charge Shots.
Sonic Wings 2, aka Aero Fighters 2 ✔	Video System	1994	Iconic vertical series moves to 4:3.
Sonic Wings 3, aka Aero Fighters 3 ✔	Video System	1995	Sprint-paced series finale, featuring a branching stage structure.
Strikers 1945 Plus ✔	Psikyo	1999	Comprehensive Strikers 1945 II remake, formatted for yoko by Psikyo themselves.
Twinkle Star Sprites ✔ ❤	ADK	1996	2P head-to-head vert. As cute as it is deadly-competitive!

174 Titles Total. Newest three are NebulasRay, Super Xevious, and Tatakae! Big Fighter.



Mostly based on the invaluable Wikipedia page. Apologies if anything is off; grateful for corrections and contributions!

[mirkvid]

Awesome reference, great job! This should be stickied!

[BIL]

Cheers bud. I'm sure it'll always be around one way or another, with Hamster's STG coverage.

[Steven]

This probably deserves a sticky.

[Sumez]

oh noes! now ur post iz all sticky UwU

[BEAMLORD]

Ah, the true triple A we've all been waiting for: the Arcade Archives Almanac. Good man, BIL.

[locoBro1196]

cannot thank you enough for this post, straight to favorites!

[pablumatic]

Guess the Hi Score forum isn't including the likes of Contra/Super Contra and the Metal Slugs, but I like the list.

[EmperorIng]

Extremely useful compiling. Sometimes it is a bit tough to browse the larger thread and see what's there. Thanks BIL!

[hamfighterx]

Just chiming in to echo the well deserved praise. Thanks, BIL - this is a fantastic reference!

[BIL]

Cheers all.

Guess the Hi Score forum isn't including the likes of Contra/Super Contra and the Metal Slugs, but I like the list.

Thanks! Yeah, decided to leave it at HS eligibility for now. Run/Guns are my jam too.

[Steven]

Well if you really wanted to do it, Horror Story apparently counts!

[BIL]

Haha. Autoscrolling opens many doors in notoriously shadowy Shumps Town. ACA Wolf Fang will be a shoe-in for sure!

EDIT: Bampu! Latest title is Vs. Star Luster. I hate writing that prefix, nothing looks right. Versus? VS? "Vs." seems the most orthodox, ah well.

[Nahar]

Great thread BIL. Definitely needs a sticky.

[BIL]

Ta bud! I'll ask the high command about a sticky, strictly by popular demand. ;3

EDIT: Bump! Latest title is Special Forces Jackal. As mentioned in ACA General, I'm gonna assume it'll have all three regions, as Konami releases almost always do. Will confirm once it's out.

[Lemnear]

It's neater than the official Hamster site

[jehu]

I'm in favor of a sticky for this, too.

And Jackal! It wasn't so long ago Konami's participation in ACA made me doubt it would come. Let's hope IREM gets back on the gravy train, too.

[Air Master Burst]

Arcade Jackal is an inteteresting beast. I probably haven't given it enough of a chance over the years since the NES version is so vastly superior. This will be a good chance to remedy that.

Does Jackal count as a shmup? I don't even know anymore.

[BIL]

Does Jackal count as a shmup? I don't even know anymore.

Granada and SFC KiKi et al have been HS forum eligible for like fifteen years now, so I award an official verdict of Yeah I Guess. Out now in Japan, time to see what regions it has.

EDIT: includes the JP board, and the World board. No Top Gunner, sadly; I wonder if they were avoiding possible political slapfighting, re: its MURICAAA decals. Still though, I'm really happy to have the World rev; I'd no idea until now that the JP machinegun is free-way, versus the US/World's locked vertical, which I'm used to from the NES cart.

It's neater than the official Hamster site

They port 'em, we catalogue 'em, just like the old days.

[Steven]

This has nothing to do with anything, but Granada is a really cool game. I'd love to try the original X68000 version someday.

[BIL]

This has nothing to do with anything, but Granada is a really cool game. I'd love to try the original X68000 version someday.

Indeed! Can't say it better than the Genesis print tagline: This game is profound and will always be new.

Enhasa's runs are some of my favourite content ever on this forum. Good reminder to back 'em up with YTDLP, phew! Hope he's doing ok out there, man this takes me back.

Toshio Toyota is the man. Putting quality time on ACA Grobda and Assault made me appreciate his expert channelings into Granada and Ex-Ranza even more.

[emphatic]

Maximum effort here, BIL.

[BIL]

Ta emph

Boof! Next up is Ninja Emaki. Or rather its JP incarnation, Youma Ninja Scroll. Are there differences, I wonder? To be on the safe side, and avoid causing disappointment, I'll use its region-appropriate title in the header.

Been waiting on this one ever since I got into ACA five years back. It's always looked so cool.



---

TOTSUGEKI! 28/08/24 sees Konami's Finalizer. I wonder if this was the origin of Compile's famous "body ram" mechanic? Invigorating physicality.

[jehu]

I’d like to see this as a sticky, too.

Great resource to regulars, lurkers, and newcomers alike.

Thank you kindly, BIL. If you keep this up, I’ll start thinking of you as Beautifully Indexed Listmaker rather than Big Idiot Loser or whatever your name stands for

[BIL]

Most welcome, jehu! I'm always a big guy for you ;3

EDIT: An ominous rumbling crunch of treads over rubble, then BLAOW! Latest is VS Battle City.



Always loved this game, it's Bomberman ADD label. Or maybe Pac-Man for TIRED OF ALL THE BULLSHIT The original FC version is well-covered by M2's Namco Museum Archive Vol.2, so the VS port is especially welcome. Now the trilogy is properly arcade once again.

[BurlyHeart]

Amazing write-up BIL. Much obliged! Will be referring to this for years to come.

[BIL]

Amazing write-up BIL. Much obliged! Will be referring to this for years to come.

Always welcome bud

Bampu! Latest is Namco's Bosconian followup Blast Off, which I just learned is part of a trilogy with Final Blaster (PCE). Longtime gap in my Namco STG trivia, this one. Always wished it'd been on the PS1 Namco Museums BITD.



---



Boof! Next up is Nichibutsu's oddball Moon Shuttle. I wonder if it's any relation to Moon Cresta, their Galaxian-modelled hit of the previous year. Seems classically austere with the old scoot n' snipe. Rad sound effects, that vintage grainy Space Ultraviolence.

[Steven]

What am I, a doctor or a moon shuttle conductor?

[BIL]

He's not a magician! He's MOON SHATONA~

[Lemnear]

why doesn't this topic become the new official topic for ACA?