Air Buster: A Classic Arcade Shooter with a Twist
The History of Air Buster
Air Buster, developed by Kaneko and published by Namco in Japan, made its debut in arcades in 1990. This horizontally scrolling shooter quickly gained popularity for its impressive graphics and engaging sound effects. In North America, it was brought to players by Sharp Image Electronics, and it was later ported to home consoles like the TurboGrafx-16 and Sega Genesis.
Gameplay Features
In Air Buster, players take control of the “Blaster Fighter” starships in a mission to thwart a mysterious mechanical fortress orbiting Earth. The game stands out with its unique selection of seven different weapons, each adding a distinct flair to the gameplay. Players can choose from weapons like the Striker, which enhances firepower with vertically aligned Options, or the Homing Shot, which intelligently tracks enemies.
The game spans six scrolling stages, providing a variety of challenges and requiring strategic weapon choices. Despite its innovative mechanics, some players felt that the difficulty level was not as challenging as they hoped.
Development and Ports
The Sega Genesis version of Air Buster offers a full-screen experience with enhanced graphics, closely mirroring the arcade version’s parallax effects. Meanwhile, the TurboGrafx-16 version, known internationally as Aero Blasters, includes an expanded ending and a unique music track on the second stage.
Reception and Legacy
Upon release, Air Buster was well-received for its visual and auditory appeal. It was ranked as the third most popular arcade game in Japan in March 1990. Despite its popularity, critics noted its relatively low difficulty. Nonetheless, it remains a beloved classic, ranking #13 in Mega magazine’s Top Mega Drive Games of All Time.
Conclusion
Air Buster is a testament to the creativity and innovation of early 1990s arcade games. Its blend of engaging gameplay and impressive audiovisuals makes it a must-play for fans of the genre. Whether you’re revisiting it on a Sega Genesis or exploring it for the first time through retro game platforms, Air Buster offers a nostalgic journey worth experiencing.