Excelsior (set 1)

Playmark’s Excelsior is a cooperative two-player shooter released in 1996 that combines action and puzzle elements within an adult theme. Players select from three characters before embarking on stages where their primary task involves using a specialized tool to drill through blocks. Successfully clearing these obstructions reveals images hidden behind them, progressing the player toward completing each level. Enemies appear periodically, requiring players to utilize gunfire or bombs while managing their health. Regular gameplay is interspersed with bonus stages presenting a brick-clearing challenge free of enemies, where collecting hidden items and point bonuses adds to the score. A unique feature allows players to choose between five female characters—and one male—to be featured within these bonus rounds, influencing the imagery encountered. Completing a bonus stage returns the player to the character selection screen for another attempt. Each stage requires clearing 81% of the obstructing blocks to finish, with a visual shift occurring once 65% are removed. Collecting all letters in the bonus stage spells "Excelsior" and grants an extra life.