Thexder 2: Firehawk

Thexder 2: Firehawk expands the original transforming-robot formula with larger environments, new enemies and a greater emphasis on combat. The basic trick remains wonderfully simple: your machine can operate as a ground-based robot or a flying craft, and switching between the two is crucial for surviving the increasingly complicated levels. There is plenty of shooting, but success also depends on understanding the environment and choosing the right form at the right moment. The sequel feels more ambitious than its predecessor, with additional weapons and a stronger sense of progression. It still has the slightly manic personality of an arcade game, though, so caution tends to last only until something starts shooting at you. Thexder 2: Firehawk is a fun slice of late-1980s science fiction action, where transforming robots solve problems with approximately zero diplomatic negotiation.