Out Zone

Out Zone is a cooperative shooter released in 1990 by Toaplan, tasking two players with navigating seven increasingly challenging vertical stages. Controlling armed soldiers, you advance through each level while battling numerous enemies and ultimately confronting a unique boss at the end of each area. The gameplay blends run-and-gun action with precise movement as you utilize an eight-way joystick to dodge projectiles and strategically engage foes. A hallmark of Out Zone is its surprising number of cameos from other Toaplan titles, appearing as helpful powerups or bonuses. Familiar elements such as aircraft formations from Flying Shark, a ship from Truxton, and even the mascot Pipiru—summoned in the first level—add playful nods to the developer’s broader catalog. Successfully guiding Pipiru to the boss grants a substantial score bonus, though it remains vulnerable while doing so. Later versions of Out Zone introduced subtle changes, including altered enemy patterns, new bonuses, and rearranged music sequences compared to earlier releases. A soundtrack album featuring the game's music was released shortly after its debut, demonstrating an early appreciation for its memorable sound design crafted by Tatsuya Uemura.