Burning Force (Japan, new version (Rev C))

Burning Force is a fast-paced, cooperative shooting game released by Namco in 1989 for two players. Players pilot futuristic motor scooters through four distinct zones within each of the game’s worlds, battling waves of high-tech enemies as they race across the screen. Gameplay evokes the feel of classics like Space Harrier, but with a unique chase-view perspective and limited vertical movement. As Hiromi Tengenji, players control their airbike by maneuvering left and right while accelerating or braking to avoid obstacles and target adversaries with both standard bullets and powerful missiles. The third zone in each world introduces a transformative shift as the airbike becomes a fully maneuverable flying ship, allowing for more dynamic movement. A bonus stage awaits at the end of each world where collecting spheres awards extra points. Running on Namco System 2 hardware, Burning Force features detailed graphics and an energetic soundtrack composed using C140 and YM2151 sound chips. The game’s protagonist, Hiromi, would later appear in other Namco titles, cementing her place within the company's history.