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The hostile outer space locales, sci-fi strongholds, and military bases that make up these romps are chock-full of ominous flying foes and countless projectiles from all sides. Even an unfortunate run-in with a wall or obstacle can trigger a lethal explosion. Despite the fairly accessible gameplay, many can be deterred by this often grueling difficulty. As it happens, though, there are a number of great shmups that prove simple enough for newcomers of the genre, while not sacrificing fun and excitement.
10 Xenoraid
Studio 10tons successfully fuses retro and modern traits in this appealing space shooter for mobile, Switch, and eighth-gen consoles. The game innovates by offering a unique system of upgrades and swapping between four unique fighter ships, tossing in subtle-yet-effective tactical elements. At the same time, the game offers a constant stream of fun action that’s easy to get into, as players fly through over 40 stages and clash with a handful of bosses.
Being able to sift through multiple ships adds a new dimension to this straightforward genre, and it also makes for easier, more forgiving gameplay that grants second chances. Added to this are the thrilling, addictive survival stages, online leaderboards, and co-op with up to three other pilots.
9 Strike Gunner S.T.G.
This arcade-hit-turned-SNES-game quietly flew under the radar as one of the console’s more underrated games following its 1992 release. Despite its swift campaign, studio Athena cleverly injects depth with loads of unique selectable weapons at the startup that somewhat alter the experience.
While some have pointed to the game’s more dull, monotonous qualities, newcomers should appreciate the solid mechanics and straightforward-yet-satisfying gameplay. Even if it’s not a mind-blowing shmup, it proves a great introduction to the genre.
8 Space Megaforce
Much of the appeal of shoot ’em ups lie in their rapid-fire, arcade-style chaos — and this is amped up with vertical scrollers like Compile’s Space Megaforce, which emulates that vibe. Described by some as a simpler alternative to the tough UN Squadron, this classic soars as one of the best shmups of the SNES’ library.
Space Megaforce superbly balances frantic action and palatable gameplay thanks to tight controls, vibrant visuals, and great level design. Subtle depth is included by way of collectible chips, which allow players to power up the eight unique weapons that can be used during this outer space odyssey. Multi-hit deaths, powerups, ample checkpoints, and a truncated “Short Game” make this one a great entry-level pick.
7 Tyrian 2000
While it’s fairly common to find solid shmups on consoles — especially of the retro variety — PC gamers have plenty to choose from as well. There are few options more appealing than this classic from Eclipse Software, which proves enjoyable for newbies and veterans alike. Originally a DOS release from 1995, this gem was re-released as an appealing freeware game.
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Set thousands of years in the future, players assume the role of pilot Trent Hawkins, who seeks to avenge his good friend, slain by an enemy drone. The game offers impressive of depth and versatility with many distinct foes and weapons, along with an Arcade mode and a three-tiered difficulty system. The game’s easy mode — coupled with sharp, reliable mechanics — make it a must-play for genre newcomers.
6 Jamestown: Legend Of The Lost Colony
This colorful romp from Final Form Games is part homage to classic shmups, part steampunk ride. The game takes place in a 17th-century alternate history, which sees a British-colonized Mars under threat from Spaniards and indigenous Martians alike.
This satisfying shooter encourages the collection of goodies as much as rapid-fire shooting, as the unique “Vaunt Mode” allows players to use a protective force field when gathering enough gold. This fan-favorite stands out with its well-crafted gameplay, creative premise, and a chaotic multiplayer mode which allows for up to four players.
5 Raiden Trad
Initially an arcade title, Seibu Kaihatsu’s Raiden was given the “Trad” tag with Genesis and Super NES ports shortly following its 1990 release. This classic would serve as the solid foundation that spurred one of the most iconic series in the genre; one whose releases span well into the current decade.
While grueling moments are plentiful, Raiden rides that line nicely when it comes to difficulty, keeping players on their toes while bringing accessibility. Smooth, straightforward gameplay and potent offensive attacks make for an hour-long campaign that doesn’t require a miracle or cheat codes to complete.
4 Crimzon Clover: World Explosion
Often regarded as one of Switch’s best shmups, this title from Yotsubane — a remaster of the Japanese-only game — proves that a frenzied space shooter can also be accessible. While newcomers may want to stray from the punishing “Unlimited” difficulty, “Simple” offers an entry-level option that’s just as intense and chaotic.
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With hypnotic visuals, a super-powered “Break Mode,” and absurd amounts of projectiles and foes, this game excels in blowing the hair back of amateur pilots and shmup vets alike.
3 Natsuki Chronicles
After spending years in game development limbo, Qute Corporation’s Natsuki Chronicles finally made its explosive debut in late 2019 on the Xbox One, filling a shmup-shaded void in the console’s library. Serving as a prequel of the Ginga Force universe, this shooter sets the stage for the celestial sci-fi premise of the Xbox 360 romp by the same name.
Players take charge of an AI-laced ship and assume the role of Natsuki, an officer and protector of her home planet. Though there are ample targets to shoot here, the game’s slower pacing, rechargeable shields, and a block ability make it ideal for shoot ’em up newbies.
2 Super Hydorah
Super Hydorah shines as a more-than-worthy homage to 16-bit shmups. It demonstrates to Switch, PS4, and Xbox One players why this genre was so renowned in this era.
The game channels its inner R-Type with a slew of dark side-scrolling levels, which keep the action and intensity going throughout the 3-hour flight. Atmospheric locales, satisfying weapons, and colorful foes round out this overlooked shmup from 2017. This is topped off with an addictive co-op mode, which alleviates some of the game’s moderately high difficulty.
1 Raging Blasters
Action-packed, well crafted, and charmingly retro — Terarin Games’ Raging Blasters feels like a celebration of the genre as much as a standalone game. Rapid vertically-scrolling stages and multi-directional projectiles make for a thrilling sense of speed and pacing that rarely lets up.
The game stresses frantic two player co-op, though a single player can also choose to up the ante by controlling two ships at once, adding a new dimension of chaos to the experience. While the core game is addictive as is, online leaderboards, multiple difficulties, and the score attack “Caravan Mode” further amp up the replayability.
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