Carrier Air Wing

Game Details:

In this title, players do not change their firepower by picking up random weapon drops. Instead, you start with four preset weapon systems from the very beginning. These four weapons include: a balanced forward-firing weapon, an up-and-down spread shot for vertical coverage and defense, a powerful piercing rear-firing weapon, and an auto-targeting homing weapon. By collecting Power Orbs, each of these four weapons can be upgraded independently, up to a maximum of six levels. Additionally, the game features a "Charge Attack" mechanic. Holding down the fire button unleashes a powerful burst skill, but using it will temporarily downgrade the weapon's level and trigger a cooldown. This risk-reward design heavily tests the player's resource management and their grasp of the stage's pacing.

Strategy Guide:

• Switch Between the Four Weapons Strategically:
• Weapon 1 (Wide Shot): Ideal for clearing large groups of fodder enemies. It provides the most coverage throughout the stages.
• Weapon 2 (Anti-Air/Ground): When numerous turrets appear at the top or bottom of the screen, you must switch to this weapon quickly to cover your blind spots.
• Weapon 3 (Piercing/Rear): A unique feature of this game. Many stages feature enemies that ambush from behind or require you to penetrate multiple layers of armor. In these situations, Weapon 3 is your only option.
• Weapon 4 (Homing): Best used when you need to focus on dodging bullet patterns. Although its damage per shot is slightly lower, it ensures consistent damage output.
• Timing Your Charge Attacks: While Charge Attacks are incredibly powerful (e.g., screen-clearing bombs or high-damage beams), they cause a temporary weapon "downgrade." It's recommended to use them only against specific boss phases or as a last resort when the screen is completely filled with projectiles and you can't evade through movement.
• Power Orb Upgrade Priority: In the early game, focus on upgrading Weapon 1 or 4 to ensure you have stable DPS for clearing weaker enemies. In the mid-to-late game, start leveling up Weapons 2 and 3 as you enter tighter spaces.
• Observe Bullet Patterns: Although this is a title from the 90s, some of its stages have bullet hell characteristics. Staying within the left third of the screen and using small movements to bait enemy fire is key to survival.