DonPachi (US)

DonPachi is a fast-paced, vertically scrolling shooter released by Cave in 1995. Players take on the role of a fighter pilot embroiled in a bizarre conflict where squadrons battle former allies to bolster military power. Choose from three distinct aircraft – a rapid-firing Type A, a helicopter with rotating side guns (Type B), or a spread-shot Type C – and navigate five increasingly challenging stages filled with land, sea, and air enemies. The ship’s primary weapon can be fired in short bursts or held down for a concentrated beam that slows movement, adding a layer of tactical decision-making to each encounter. A unique scoring system, the Get Point System (GPS), rewards players for chaining enemy destructions together, encouraging skillful play and strategic route planning. Hidden throughout the stages are bee medals, offering substantial point bonuses when collected in sequence; finding all thirteen in a single stage can yield an enormous reward. The US version of DonPachi notably includes a "Winners Don't Use Drugs" screen upon startup, making it a rare and sought-after arcade title for collectors. The game’s name is a clever pun referencing both the sound of gunfire and Japanese terminology for “leader bee,” with subtle bee imagery woven throughout the visuals and gameplay. With cooperative two-player support, DonPachi delivers intense action and rewarding precision to players seeking a true test of skill in the classic arcade shooter style.