The Irritating Maze / Ultra Denryu Iraira Bou

Developed by Saurus and released in Japan in 1997, The Irritating Maze is a two-player maze game published by SNK for their Neo-Geo MVS arcade system. The title, which translates to “Uchan Nanchan's Flame of the Challenger - Ultra Irritating Electric Stick,” draws inspiration from a Japanese game show and comedy team. Players control their characters using trackballs, guiding them through increasingly complex maze layouts. The objective is straightforward: navigate your character to collect points while avoiding obstacles. Two players compete simultaneously, adding a layer of playful rivalry to the experience as you attempt to outmaneuver each other on the screen. The game’s design marks the first instance of SNK utilizing a trackball control method within their Neo-Geo MVS hardware. The Irritating Maze offers a simple yet engaging gameplay loop, relying on player skill and quick reflexes for success. While never released as a home console title, its unique control scheme and competitive nature made it a distinct addition to the arcade landscape.