Raiden (World set 1)

In 1990, Earth faced an alien invasion, and humanity’s last hope rested on the Raiden Supersonic Attack Fighter. This intense vertical scrolling shooter puts players in the cockpit of this cutting-edge craft as they battle waves of relentless enemies across a series of increasingly challenging stages. Two players can team up to tackle the onslaught, coordinating their attacks to overcome massive bosses and navigate treacherous environments. Gameplay revolves around blasting through enemy formations while collecting power-ups like enhanced lasers, homing missiles, and protective shields. Scattered throughout each level are valuable items that boost firepower or grant extra lives, encouraging skillful navigation amidst the chaos. The game’s vibrant visuals and energetic soundtrack create a pulse-pounding experience as players strive to push back against the invading forces. Raiden marked the beginning of a long-running series known for its fast-paced action and distinctive dragon mascot, Miclus, who occasionally appears to reward skillful play with bonus points. This early installment set the stage for future installments and introduced core gameplay elements that would become hallmarks of the franchise.