Shoot ’em up games, also known as shmups, are some of the most exhilarating and enduring game genres in the gaming space. In fact, the origin of the ‘Shmup’ genre dates back to 1962, and new titles are still coming out in modern times. From dodging complex bullet patterns to blasting waves of enemies to setting a new high score, shmups test reflexes, strategy, and timing. It delivers simple but challenging gameplay.
In addition, their appeal is timeless. Specifically, the thrill of perfecting a one-credit clear (1CC) or the nostalgia of classic arcades continue to attract both newbies and seasoned gamers in the scene. Geometry Wars is the perfect example of what gamers and developers refer to as a shoot ‘em up. It is you, your weapons, and countless enemies all bent on seeing you dead.
Considering almost 50 years of its existence, there is no doubt that there is a shoot ’em up game for every playstyle. Whether you are chasing leaderboard supremacy, exploring diver ship load outs, or casually enjoying colorful projectiles, you will surely find a shmup that will challenge and entertain you.
However, with tons of classics and modern options, deciding where to start can be a problem. To help you, this guide provides a walkthrough of the history, sub-genres, essential titles, and tips regarding shoot ‘em up games.
What is a Shoot ’Em Up Game?
Okay, what is a shoot ’em up game? By definition, a shoot-’em-up is a video game genre in which players defeat as many enemies as possible using a single character. Basically, it’s when a player is tasked with defending themselves from an ungodly barrage of enemy fire. In most cases, shmup players control a ship to avoid endless waves of opponents. At its core, the challenge is to survive as long as possible by mastering patterns, chaining attacks, and managing weapons. The enemies in these titles are hellbent on destroying the player, and you have to move and fire fast. Shmups are known for their simple controls, but with intense gameplay that tests both your hand-eye coordination and reaction times.
The Evolution of Shmups
Shoot ’em up titles have evolved since 1962’s Spacewar! As one of the earliest competitive shooters, it was a competitive multiplayer shoot ‘em up, with two players dogfighting each other on-screen.
I was surprised to learn that we had been so far advanced with multiplayer in the early sixties. Spacewar! Paved the way for emerging titles that would come along in a decade or so, in the form of Asteroids and Space Invaders, cementing the genre’s popularity. In Asteroids, the player is constantly bombarded by the titular asteroids, and you’re frantically shooting and flying around to avoid them. Meanwhile, Space Invaders was a ‘fixed shooter’; the player was confined to the bottom of the screen while the imposing wall of alien invaders kept speeding up and looming over the player. The player is tasked with shooting up and timing their cannon fire just right to win.
Not only were these games breaking new ground, but they were easy to control and had simple, yet captivating visuals. These early classics emphasized reflexes, tight, responsive controls, and high-score chasing elements, still central to modern shooters.
You can thank shoot ’em ups for making video games a pop culture phenomenon they are today. What would the world of gaming be like without the invention of the shoot ’em up? I dare not even imagine such a world. Not only that, but older shoot ‘em ups have held up pretty well. You can easily play Asteroids and Space Invaders from an Internet browser.
My fellow classmates and I would often get in trouble for accessing such games in class when we were supposed to be ‘learning’ and ‘bettering ourselves.’ Psh! This is the essence of the shoot ‘em up genre. It’s all about survival and defending yourself for as long as you can.
Types of Shoot ‘Em Up Games
As technology progressed, shmups branched into multiple sub-genres. In line with this, modern hits have expanded mechanics with hyper mode systems, break mechanics, and auto-tracking systems, creating more strategic depth than ever before. Today, there are several shoot ‘em up games that offer unique experiences.
- Bullet Hell (Danmaku)
- Horizontal Scrolling
- Rail Shooters
- Roguelike/Modern Hybrid
- Twin-Stick/Multidirectional
- Vertical Scrolling
Top 10 Shoot-Em-Up Games of All Time
Ikaruga
Ikaruga is not just a game; it’s a testament to the golden era of arcade shooters. With its intricate enemy patterns, the game demands perfection and memorization, offering a challenge that keeps players hooked. Its unique polarity system adds depth, requiring players to masterfully switch between two colors to absorb or deflect bullets.
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Dreamcast, and GameCube,
R-Type Final 2
R-Type Final 2 is a visual spectacle, blending nostalgic side-scrolling action with modern graphics. Its challenging gameplay, vast arsenal of 100 unlockable ships, and intricate power-up systems make it a thrilling experience. It offers both hardcore and casual gamers a journey worth embarking on.
Platforms: PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and PC
Gradius V
Gradius V brilliantly revives the essence of classic arcade shoot-’em-ups, blending nostalgia with modern gameplay. Its intricate power-up system and intense action sequences challenge both reflexes and strategy. Developed by the renowned Treasure, this game is a testament to the timeless allure of side-scrolling space battles, proving that some gaming styles are truly evergreen.
Platform: PlayStation 2
Touhou 6: Embodiment of Scarlet Devil
Touhou 6: Embodiment of Scarlet Devil is a mesmerizing blend of intense bullet-hell gameplay and captivating lore. Crafted by the solo genius, ZUN, it revitalized the shoot-’em-up genre with its intricate bullet patterns and compelling characters. Dive into Gensokyo’s mystique, challenge formidable bosses, and lose yourself in its entrancing soundtrack.
Platforms: PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, and PC
DoDonPachi
Dodonpachi Resurrection masterfully brings the thrill of arcade shoot ’em ups. With its vibrant visuals, intricate bullet patterns, and dynamic bosses, it offers a mesmerizing experience. While tailored for touch controls, its essence remains true to the genre, making it a must-play for shmup enthusiasts.
Platform: Arcade, Xbox 360, iOS, PC
Thunder Force IV
SEGA AGES Thunder Force IV on Switch rekindles the magic of classic shooters. With its detailed graphics, intense gameplay, and vertical scrolling that remains unparalleled, it’s a timeless gem. Enhanced with features like ‘Kids Mode’ and online rankings, it’s the definitive way to experience this Mega Drive masterpiece.
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Sega Genesis, and Sega Saturn
Radiant Silvergun
Radiant Silvergun stands as a testament to timeless game mechanics, blending relentless challenge with a unique, persistent upgrade system. Its precise controls and diverse weaponry offer a deeply rewarding experience, while modern additions like leaderboards amplify its allure. A classic shooter that demands dedication but delivers unmatched satisfaction.
Platforms: Arcade, Sega Saturn, Xbox 360, Nintendo Switch, PC
Mushihimesama Futari
Mushihimesama, a Cave masterpiece, immerses players in a vibrant world of colossal insects. This shoot-em-up offers a unique blend of intense bullet-hell action and a rich, colorful aesthetic. With diverse gameplay modes catering to both novices and veterans, it’s a captivating experience that stands out in its genre.
Platforms: iOS, Arcade, and Xbox 360
Cygni: All Guns Blazing
Cygni: All Guns Blazing is a modern option that makes players go through projectiles and unleash power against enemies. You will still get the old-school action experience, but this time, with modern graphics and more cinematic visuals.
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S, and PlayStation 4
Espgaluda II
Espgaluda II, a masterpiece by Cave, offers a visually spectacular shmup experience that feels both fresh and well-designed. With its flexible risk/reward scoring system, it caters to both long-time fans and newcomers, ensuring an intense gameplay journey.
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Android, iOS, Arcade, Xbox 360, and i-mode
How to Get Better at Shmups
Here is an easy guide to improve your skills at shoot ’em up games:
- Practice Patterns
- Start Easy
- Focus on Survival
- Use ‘Continues’ Wisely
- Study Advanced Mechanics
- Watch Replays & Score Attack Modes
The Future of Shmups
Shmups have been around since video games were basically invented. They have been there every step of the way: through countless births and deaths of great franchises, genres, and game gimmicks.
What does the future hold for it? Mobile platforms have been a great boon for the shmup genre, with some addictive titles easily available. You can find some great ones here.
I believe that releases like Geometry Wars give a glimpse of a bright gaming future that includes tons of great new shmup titles.
Game developers are constantly getting new ideas, so I’m confident that we could see any number of successful smash hits that could rival the success of Space Invaders and Asteroids.
