1943

With 1943 Capcom took the solid core that was 1942 and made everything better; the animation in particular received a great-looking overhaul. It also introduces slight RPG elements: your plane has stats (offensive and defensive power, special move power, etc.) that you upgrade by shooting down the red planes. And, eschewing any semblance of historical accuracy you can call down lightning to destroy everything on screen. Not the best shmup on the NES but a great sequel and very good game that holds up twenty years later.








Time played: 15 minutes.
How was it?: Fun. Solid mechanics and great improvements over 1942.
Will you play it again?: If I'm in the mood for a shooter and I'm tired of Ikaruga, sure.