Tokio / Scramble Formation (newer)

Tokio, also known as Scramble Formation, is a classic vertical scrolling shooter developed by Taito and released in 1986. In the game, players pilot a military helicopter with the primary mission of destroying enemy air and ground units, while also rescuing hostages held captive across the city of Tokyo and surrounding areas.

The gameplay of Tokio focuses on reflexes and evasive tactics. Your helicopter is equipped with two main types of weapons: forward-firing shots to take down airborne targets like enemy planes and helicopters, and bombs that are dropped to destroy ground targets such as tanks, turrets, and structures. Players must constantly move to dodge enemy fire while simultaneously aiming precisely at them.

A unique aspect of Tokio is its hostage rescue mechanic. Hostages are found on the ground, and to rescue them, players must carefully land their helicopter precisely on the hostage's position. Once rescued, hostages will attach themselves in a line behind your helicopter. This not only grants bonus points, but sometimes hostages also carry power-up items. If your helicopter is hit, instead of being immediately destroyed, a hostage might be lost, extending the player's survival time.

The game offers various power-up items, appearing as letters:

• P (Power): Enhances your gun's firepower, allowing for more shots or stronger projectiles.
• B (Bomb): Increases the quantity of bombs you can carry.
• S (Speed): Boosts your helicopter's movement speed, aiding in evasion.

The stages in Tokio vary from the urban landscapes of Tokyo with its skyscrapers, to secret military bases and sea regions. Each stage presents unique challenges and culminates in an intense boss battle, requiring players to master their control skills and effective weapon usage. With its characteristic 2D pixel art graphics of the arcade era and vibrant sound, Tokio created an engaging and challenging shooting experience for players.