Wild Western (set 1)

Defend a vulnerable train from relentless bandit attacks in Taito’s Wild Western, released in 1982. Players control a horseback sheriff, working cooperatively with a second player to navigate an increasingly perilous landscape filled with obstacles like cacti and rocks. The central focus of each stage is the train itself; allowing three bandits to board results in immediate game over. Unique gameplay mechanics require players to occasionally hop aboard the train to dispatch close-range threats, utilizing a dedicated action button for both attacking and dodging hazards while on board. Successful completion of stages is rewarded with a bonus round and an opportunity for extra points – catch the airborne coin! Wild Western utilizes Taito’s SJ System hardware and features straightforward controls: a joystick guides movement, while a rotary knob manages shooting, with a single button used for jumping and special actions on the train. While originally released in arcades, Wild Western has seen various ports to home computers and consoles over the years, including appearances in compilation titles like "Taito Legends 2."