CHOOSE A VERSION
4 versions · same consoleChoose 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.
Selected: Default · set 1
The game loads when you press Play · press “Play Now” inside the game if it asks.
Batsugun (set 1)
Batsugun
About Batsugun
Batsugun (set 1) is a 1993 vertically scrolling shooter, widely recognized as the grandfather of the bullet hell genre. Toaplan developed and published it in Japan, with Taito handling the release in Europe. This was the last shoot 'em up Toaplan ever made before the studio dissolved, and it originally ran on arcade hardware.
The action takes place on a distant Earth-like planet where a global takeover is underway. You pick one of six fighter pilots from the Skull Hornets squadron and pilot a submersible jet. The screen fills with enemy fire and you have to dodge while shooting down waves of enemies. The game introduces dense, patterned bullet spreads that became the trademark of later danmaku shooters.
For retro shooter fans, Batsugun is a crucial piece of history. It bridges the gap between classic shooters and the bullet hell explosion of the mid-90s. If you enjoy games like DoDonPachi or Radiant Silvergun, you will see its influence everywhere. Even today, its challenge and crisp pacing hold up well.
GAME INFO
How to play Batsugun online
When you start Batsugun, press Start (Enter) to get to the title screen. The game is in Japanese, but the menu is simple: press Start again to begin or use the D-pad to highlight options if available. You pick your pilot and ship selection - this choice affects things like shot type and speed, though the game does not explain the differences. Just pick one that feels right.
Your goal is to survive each stage and defeat the boss at the end. The core loop is straightforward: shoot everything that moves, collect power-ups dropped by certain enemies to increase your firepower, and dodge the increasingly dense bullet patterns. There is no save feature, so practice is key to getting further.
Batsugun is a pure arcade experience: score attack and one-credit clears are the norm. If you want to see the ending, you need to beat the game without continuing. Focus on learning enemy patterns and using your rapid fire (B button) wisely. There are no continues in the traditional sense - if you game over, you start over.
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
Batsugun FAQ
Who developed Batsugun?
Toaplan developed Batsugun, and they also published it in Japan. The European version was handled by Taito.
Does Batsugun have a multiplayer or co-op mode?
Batsugun is strictly a single-player game. There is no cooperative or versus mode available.
Is Batsugun exclusive to Arcade or did it appear on other systems?
Batsugun was only released for arcade hardware in 1993. No official home ports were ever produced for consoles or computers.
COMMENTS (0)
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts.