Salamander

Game Details:

Salamander was first released in arcades in 1986 and is a spin-off of the Gradius series. Unlike its predecessor, this game combines horizontal and vertical levels and supports two-player cooperative gameplay. Players will control the Vic Viper and Lord British fighters, progressing through levels filled with alien enemies and organic-style mechanisms. Along the way, you can collect items to enhance attack power, speed, or shields. The game is highly acclaimed for its high difficulty, distinctive boss battles, and bio-style enemies, and was later ported to multiple platforms, including the FC and MSX.

Editor's Recommendation:

If you're a fan of shooting games, Salamander is definitely worth a try. It combines horizontal and vertical levels, supports two-player cooperation, and features Konami's iconic music, injecting new ideas into 80s shooting games. The alien creature-themed level design and unique boss battles immerse players in the experience. The high-difficulty levels are extremely challenging, making it a top choice for nostalgic players and arcade game fans.

Game Walkthrough:

• Choose items wisely: Initially, prioritize speed, followed by firepower, but be aware that excessive speed can lead to loss of control.
• Two-player cooperation is more effective: If playing with two people, you can cover each other, with one person focusing on attack and the other on controlling the field for better results.
• Remember enemy appearance patterns: Enemy waves are fixed; familiarizing yourself with their order of appearance will help you effectively dodge and counterattack.
• Boss tactics: Bosses usually have obvious weaknesses (such as eyes or cores); keep moving to dodge tracking bullets.
• Stay in the center in vertical levels: Enemies often come from all directions; being in the middle allows for more flexible reactions.
• Save shield items: Don't greedily collect all items; it's more beneficial to save shields for boss battles.