Classic Games Database
ClassicGames DB

Hellfire

Review
Also known as
Hellfire S Hellfire S: The Another Story ヘルファイアー

A horizontal shooter where you control shot direction to defeat a robotic dictator.

Hellfire is a 1989 arcade game by Toaplan. The Sega Genesis/Mega Drive port was released in 1990, not 1989. The legacy year 1989 corresponds to the arcade original.

About Hellfire

Hellfire is a horizontal space shooter set in a future where a robotic dictator threatens human colonies. The player controls a pilot navigating a specialized aircraft through hostile environments filled with enemy forces.

Its primary distinguishing mechanic is the ability to freely aim shots in eight directions, including diagonals. This allows for tactical positioning to engage targets from angles that avoid their fire, such as stationary defenses that must be approached from specific positions. The aircraft can also deploy a bomb to clear groups of enemies.

Progression is aided by collecting items that enhance weapon power, increase movement speed, or provide additional bombs. The gameplay involves navigating and destroying numerous fast-moving enemies, which creates a challenging experience. The narrative context involves a mission to stop the spread of a destructive cosmic phenomenon.

Hellfire Screenshots

7 images
Title screen
Using the up/down shots
Using the diagonal shot
Using the forward shot
Leaving the drop ship at the start of the game
At beginning of the first level
The backwards shot