*Now in 2D

This week’s Arcade Archives entry is one other Namco oddity, as Hamster has prepped and readied little-seen sequel 3D Thunder Ceptor II, now obtainable to obtain on PS4 and Nintendo Swap.

Launched in 1986 as a pseudo-sequel to the unique Thunder Ceptor, (which solely launched earlier that very same yr), 3D Thunder Ceptor II ii an into-the-screen shmup/rail shooter, which sees the participant pilot the titular vessel is fast-blasting sci-fi motion. Devised as Namco’s reply to Sega’s massively profitable House Harrier, Thunder Ceptor II options related gameplay, (although nowhere close to as quick), though it does embrace a rudimentary HUD, providing up info corresponding to weapon choice and enemy place.

Try the motion within the video under, courtesy of YouTuber Replay Burners.

Within the arcades, 3D Thunder Ceptor II turned heads resulting from its groundbreaking use of stereoscopic 3D. The cupboard itself utilized quite a lot of layered home windows with a view to create false depth, making the enemies seemingly leap off the display screen and towards the participant. Whereas the sport itself wasn’t widespread, its utilization of 3D know-how was praised, with different builders following with their very own 3D titles within the following years, together with Namco’s personal Starblade. In fact, it goes with out saying that the Arcade Archives launch doesn’t embrace 3D help, sort of eradicating a key ingredient of recreation’s idea.

3D Thunder Ceptor II is out there to obtain now on PS4 and Nintendo Swap, priced at round $8.