1941 - Counter Attack (900227 USA)
1941 - Counter Attack (900227 USA) on arcade
1941: Counter Attack is a vertically scrolling shooter that Capcom released for arcades in 1991. It serves as a prequel to the more famous 1942 and is the third entry in the 194X series. This USA version (ROM set 900227) brings the same coin-op action that defined Capcom's military-themed shooters of the era.
You control a fighter plane flying upward through stages, dodging enemy fire and shooting down waves of enemy aircraft. The gameplay relies on memorizing enemy patterns and using a limited number of bombs to clear the screen when things get too hectic. Collectible power-ups enhance your weaponry, and the game throws increasingly tough formations of fighters, bombers, and mid-bosses your way.
While 1941 doesn't have the lasting fame of its predecessors, it's a solid entry that refines the series' formula with improved graphics and tighter stage design. It's a worthwhile pick for anyone who enjoys classic vertical shooters or wants to see where the series evolved before reaching the later installments. The arcade difficulty is high, but that's part of the charm for purists.
How to Play 1941 - Counter Attack (900227 USA) Online
Insert a coin (press Enter on the emulator) to begin. Your objective is to fly through each stage, shooting down enemy aircraft while avoiding their bullets. Use the arrow keys to move your plane around the screen. Hold S to fire your main weapon continuously; tapping it works too.
Pay attention to the power-up icons that appear after destroying certain enemies. They usually improve your shot, add extra speed, or give you a bomb. Bombs are deployed with the X button and clear the screen of all enemies - use them sparingly, especially against boss fights. The game loops through several stages, each ending with a large boss that requires pattern recognition to defeat.
If you're new to the series, expect a steep difficulty curve. Focus on staying alive rather than shooting everything, and learn which enemy formations are most dangerous. The game offers continues, so don't hesitate to insert more credits (press Enter again) if you run out of lives.
1941 - Counter Attack (900227 USA) Keyboard Controls
Controls
- Arrow Keys: Joystick / Movement
- X: Button 1
- S: Button 2
- Z: Button 3
- A: Button 4
- Q: Button 5
- E: Button 6
- Enter: Start / 1P
- V: Coin / Insert
Comments (0)