Syvalion (Japan)

Control the mechanical dragon Syvalion in this unique 1988 horizontal shooter from Taito. Players navigate a shifting, magical dungeon environment as they progress through the game, encountering various obstacles and enemies along the way. The storyline connects to the popular Darius series; at one point during your journey, you assist the people of the planet Darius. Gameplay relies on precise control utilizing a trackball for movement and a single button for firing. Two players can cooperate in their quest to traverse the challenging levels, each experiencing distinct stage designs depending on whether they select Training or Expert mode at the start of a new game. The soundtrack, composed by Yasuhisa Watanabe and produced by Hisayoshi Ogura of Taito’s Sound Team Zuntata, is notable for its distinctive soundscape. Syvalion has seen several ports to other platforms over the years, including releases on the Super Famicom and PlayStation 2. The character Syvalion also later appeared in Darius Brust for the PSP.