Thunder Force II

Thunder Force II is a shooter that alternates between two distinct visual perspectives. The player pilots a ship through stages that are either viewed from the side or from a top down angle.

Its arsenal offers a choice between a single forward facing shot of greater strength or a dual weapon that fires both ahead and behind with less power. Collectible items are available to enhance this firepower further. The control scheme in the side scrolling sections will feel familiar to players of similar games from that period, though the weapon options here are more fundamental.

Movement in the overhead stages is restricted to four primary directions, making navigation around barriers challenging as the ship maintains a constant speed. This particular style of stage would not appear in later series entries.