Silpheed

Silpheed is a 1988 DOS shoot-'em-up originally known for its impressive use of polygonal enemy designs and fast-paced space combat. Players pilot a futuristic fighter through a series of increasingly dangerous missions, facing waves of enemy ships, large bosses, and a steady stream of projectiles. The game's weapon system provides useful variety, allowing players to select different armaments suited to different situations. The action is intense without becoming completely chaotic, although later stages are quite happy to test your reflexes to their limits. Silpheed has a distinctive visual identity for its era, especially in its use of wireframe-style graphics and cinematic presentation. It is a classic example of the period when developers were eager to make home computers look like futuristic machines. The result is an entertaining space shooter where the scenery is impressive, the enemies are numerous, and survival remains a surprisingly difficult career option.