Strike Force (rev 1 02/25/91)

In Strike Force, players take on the role of spaceship pilots in a desperate fight to liberate the New Earth Solar System from an alien invasion. Lizard-like creatures have enslaved human colonists and are using them as labor while constructing a massive stronghold known as the Mega-Star Apocalypse. As you navigate across the surfaces of various planets, your mission is to destroy enemy forces, rescue captive humans – who cling to your ship’s underside for bonus points – and ultimately confront the alien menace at its source. This side-scrolling shooter builds on the legacy of Midway's classic Defender series with several new additions. Two players can cooperate in a shared cockpit view, and planets are scattered with powerful weapons to discover and utilize. Rescued humans may even mutate into small, combat-ready creatures who fight alongside you, or be used as point multipliers when collected. Strategic choices abound, allowing players to prioritize rescue missions, upgrade firepower, or head straight for the ultimate confrontation. Strike Force’s gameplay combines fast-paced action with tactical decision-making, offering a unique cooperative experience. The game's high score screen subtly nods to its predecessor with a hidden message revealing itself through the initials displayed alongside top player names. With its challenging gameplay and distinctive visual style, Strike Force provides an engaging arcade adventure for both seasoned shooter fans and newcomers alike.