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3 versions · same console

Choose an original release, regional version, revision, bootleg or clearly labelled ROM hack/mod, then press Play. Hacks may change the gameplay. Switching versions restarts the player.

Default · Original
Arian Mission
ASO - Armored Scrum Object

Selected: Default · Original · Japan, USA

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Alpha Mission

85 plays

Alpha Mission on arcade

Arcade
Shooter
5· 0 votes

Alpha Mission, also known as ASO: Armored Scrum Object in Japan, is a vertically scrolling shooter that hit Japanese arcades in 1985. SNK developed and published it, with Tradewest handling the North American release. This is an official arcade title, not a hack or prototype, and it later appeared on the Famicom and NES. You control a fighter ship moving upward through scrolling stages, blasting enemy craft and ground targets. The core mechanic revolves around collecting lettered power-up pods that upgrade your main weapon, modify your secondary shot, or grant temporary shields. A special amulet item lets you unleash a screen-clearing bomb when you gather enough of the same letter. Bosses appear at the end of each stage, requiring you to dodge patterns while dealing damage. Alpha Mission is a solid example of mid-80s arcade shooters, but it doesn't break new ground. The power-up system is its main draw, giving you choices in how to build your ship. It's worth a look if you enjoy classic vertical shooters and want to see SNK's early work before they became famous for fighting games. The difficulty ramps up quickly, so be prepared for a challenge.

GAME INFO

Platform: Arcade
Genre: Shooter
Publisher: SNK
Developer: SNK
Released: 1985
Region: Japan, USA

How to play Alpha Mission online

Start by pressing Enter to insert credits, then press V to select the number of players (if applicable) and Enter to begin. Your ship automatically scrolls upward, and you must dodge enemy fire while shooting everything. The first few seconds are a good time to grab a power-up pod - they appear as floating letters and change color, so prioritize collecting them to strengthen your weapon. As you progress, enemies get faster and more aggressive. Pay attention to the letter you collect most - when you have enough of the same letter, you can press the bomb button (usually mapped to the Y button or shoulder button) to clear the screen. If you die, you lose your current power-ups, so conserving extra lives matters. The game loops, but the challenge ramps up significantly after round three.

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

Alpha Mission FAQ

Which regions was Alpha Mission released in?

The arcade version first appeared in Japan in 1985, then Tradewest brought it to North American arcades shortly after. A European release may have occurred, but documentation is sparse.

Is Alpha Mission an official release, a fan hack, a prototype, or another kind of build?

Alpha Mission is an official commercial arcade release from SNK. It was not a hack, prototype, or fan project.

In what year was Alpha Mission originally released?

The original Japanese arcade release was in 1985. North American arcades picked it up the same year or early 1986, and the Famicom port arrived in 1986.

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