Thunder Dragon (9th Jan. 1992)

In Thunder Dragon, players control a futuristic fighter jet, soaring through vertically scrolling stages filled with enemies. The primary objective is to destroy all obstacles in the way, from small enemy units to massive war machines, and ultimately confront powerful bosses at the end of each stage.

The weapon system in Thunder Dragon is quite diverse and upgradeable. Players can collect power-up icons dropped by destroyed enemies or special objects. The main weapon types include:

• Shot: The basic attack. Can be upgraded to increase firepower and firing angle, from single straight shots to wide-spread attacks.
• Laser: A powerful laser beam that pierces through enemies. Can be upgraded to increase its width and damage.
• Missile: Homing or directional missiles that provide additional damage support.

Collecting the same type of power-up will upgrade the current weapon to a higher level, making it easier for players to deal with the increasing number of enemies. However, if hit, the weapon level will degrade, adding an extra layer of challenge for the player.

In addition to primary weapons, players also have a limited supply of bombs. Bombs are screen-clearing weapons; when activated, they cause a large explosion, wiping out most small enemies on screen and dealing significant damage to larger foes or bosses. Strategic use of bombs is key to overcoming difficult situations.

The game features various stages, each with its unique setting and enemy types. The difficulty gradually increases through each stage, requiring players to have quick reflexes and effective resource management (bombs and power-ups). End-of-stage boss battles are a highlight, where players must identify weaknesses and evade complex attack patterns. Thunder Dragon is known for its high difficulty, offering a challenging yet captivating experience for fans of arcade shooters.