Summary

• Release Year: 1986
• Genres: Arcade, Hack and slash/Beat ’em up, Shooter
• Platforms: Amstrad CPC, Arcade, Commodore C64/128/MAX, ZX Spectrum
• Developers: Data East
• Publishers: U.S. Gold

Express Raider: A Data East Arcade Classic

Released in 1986 by Data East, Express Raider is a vertically scrolling shooter arcade game that puts players in the conductor’s seat of a train under attack by enemy forces. The game is known for its fast-paced gameplay, challenging difficulty, and impressive graphics and sound.

Gameplay

Express Raider is a vertically scrolling shooter in which the player controls a train that is constantly moving forward. The player’s goal is to shoot down enemy forces while avoiding obstacles and collecting power-ups. The game features a variety of enemy types, including ground troops, tanks, helicopters, and airplanes.

The player’s train is equipped with a variety of weapons, including a machine gun, a cannon, and a homing missile launcher. The player can also collect power-ups to upgrade their weapons and abilities.

Graphics and Sound

Express Raider’s graphics are impressive for an arcade game of its time. The game features detailed sprites and backgrounds, and the animation is smooth and fluid. The game’s sound is also top-notch, with catchy music and realistic sound effects.

Difficulty

Express Raider is a challenging game, even for experienced shooter fans. The enemy forces are relentless, and the player must constantly be on their toes to avoid being hit. The game also features a number of difficult bosses, each with their own unique attack patterns.

Legacy

Express Raider was a critical and commercial success, and it remains a popular arcade game today. The game has been ported to a number of home platforms, including the NES, Sega Genesis, and PlayStation 2.

Critical Reception

Express Raider was praised for its fast-paced gameplay, challenging difficulty, and impressive graphics and sound. The game was also praised for its innovative use of the train setting.

Awards

Express Raider won a number of awards, including the Arcade Game of the Year award from the Amusement & Music Operators Association (AMOA).

Influence

Express Raider has been cited as an influence on a number of other vertically scrolling shooters, including the popular Raiden series.

Overall

Express Raider is a classic arcade game that offers fast-paced gameplay, challenging difficulty, and impressive graphics and sound. The game is a must-play for fans of vertically scrolling shooters and arcade games in general.

Tips for Playing Express Raider

• Use the homing missile launcher to take out enemy helicopters and airplanes.
• Collect the power-ups to upgrade your weapons and abilities.
• Be careful to avoid the obstacles, as they can damage your train.
• Don’t be afraid to use your special moves, such as the bomb attack and the shield.
• Practice makes perfect! The more you play Express Raider, the better you will become at it.

Fun Facts about Express Raider

• The game was originally released in Japan under the title “Train Heart”.
• The game was ported to the NES in 1988 under the title “Cabal”.
• The game was also ported to the Sega Genesis in 1989 under the title “Express Raider”.
• The game was included in the Data East Arcade Classics compilation for the PlayStation 2 in 2006.

Review Score

8/10

Art

Cover Art

Screenshots