After Burner II

Game Details:

As an enhanced version of the original, *After Burner II* introduces a throttle control system, allowing players to freely adjust their speed to dodge missiles or quickly close in on targets. The game features 21 stages set across forests, deserts, polar regions, and more, utilizing Sega's powerful Super Scaler hardware technology to achieve smooth scaling effects. The player's primary weapons are an unlimited vulcan cannon and a limited but powerful supply of lock-on missiles. Its most impressive feature was the variety of dynamic motion cabinets with strong physical feedback, which, combined with the 360-degree barrel roll controls, provided players with an ultimate sense of immersion at the time.

Strategy Guide:

• Mastering Missile Lock-On: Don't try to take out every enemy with your vulcan cannon. When an enemy aircraft appears on screen and is locked on by the red reticle, you'll hear a short audio cue. Firing a missile at this moment guarantees a hit. Learn to "sweep-lock" by quickly moving the joystick to pass the reticle over multiple enemies, then rapidly press the missile button to achieve multi-kills.
• Using Speed to Dodge Missiles: When a warning appears at the edge of the screen, it means an enemy missile is approaching. Do not maintain a constant speed. Immediately pull the joystick diagonally and engage the Afterburner to accelerate, combining it with a wide barrel roll. If a missile gets too close, instantly cutting your speed followed by a sharp maneuver in the opposite direction is an advanced evasion technique.
• Utilizing the Barrel Roll: Quickly tapping the joystick left or right twice will trigger a 360-degree barrel roll. This isn't just for show; it's an effective defensive maneuver. During the roll, your jet's hitbox changes slightly. Use these invincibility frames (I-frames) to pass through dense barrages of fire.
• Taking Advantage of Supply Stages: Every few stages, a friendly supply plane will appear. At this point, avoid unnecessary movements. Keep your jet steady as you approach the plane, and the system will automatically replenish your missile stock. This is your only guarantee for survival in the difficult later stages, as the durability of late-game enemies makes them impossible to take down with the vulcan cannon alone.