Angel Kids (Japan)

In Angel Kids, two players work cooperatively to launch children skyward using a rope system. Players control two characters who manipulate a shared rope with dual joysticks; pulling outwards creates tension that propels a third child towards floating balloons positioned high above the screen. The game presents seven distinct scrolling screens, each requiring precise timing and coordination between the players to successfully send the airborne character onward. As a child is launched into the air, gameplay shifts to a split-screen view, allowing both characters to advance simultaneously across the distance. Players use an up directional input to move their rope-holding characters forward, navigating them through the environment while maintaining control of the rising child. The game was produced in 1988 and features graphics by Buta-Kun and others, with sound design from Nikojiroh Itaya. Notably, characters resembling those found in Angel Kids appeared in the 2012 animated film Wreck-It Ralph, suggesting a lasting impact on popular culture. The game utilizes Zilog Z80 processors for both main gameplay and audio, complemented by Yamaha YM2203 sound chips to create its unique auditory experience.