Master of Weapon
Taito
1989
1–2 Players
Arcade
Arcade
Shooter
Not Rated
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Description
An entire week of nuclear war on Earth destroys its global environment. The survivors of the war gather their strength and resources in an attempt to bring Earth back to the way it was. Using a super computer called God System, the survivors start their first step in rebuilding Earth by having the God System create machines capable cleaning and reconstructing much of what has been lost from the war. However, without warning, a mysterious mutant entity known as “N” takes over the God System; creating three strange guardian statues based on Greek mythological figures, N manipulates the God System’s machines and programs in order to attack mankind. The survivors create an artificial human called Yukiwo – built to harness perfect dexterity and strength – as well as a super-powered jet for him to pilot in order to reclaim Earth from N.
Master of Weapon
Overview & History
Released by Taito in 1989, Master of Weapon is a cult-classic, post-apocalyptic arcade vertical scrolling shooter that swaps traditional starships for a jetpack-wearing, heavily armed infantryman. Set in a desolate 21st-century wasteland ravaged by nuclear fallout and mutant bioweapons, players control a lone commando on a suicidal mission to infiltrate the inner sanctum of the sinister automated regime, "NOAH," and prevent the total annihilation of what remains of humanity. Distinguished by its rare blend of shoot-'em-up mechanics and an isometric-leaning pseudo-3D perspective, this coin-op cabinet stands out for its oppressive, industrial aesthetic, thunderous FM synthesizer soundtrack, and relentless difficulty curve that challenged the quarter-dropping habits of late-80s arcade patrons.
Gameplay Features & Mechanics
Unlike standard horizontal or vertical shmup titles, Master of Weapon employs a unique layered perspective that grants players the ability to alter their altitude slightly, dodging incoming ground fire while raining down ballistic devastation on both terrestrial and aerial targets. The game features six grueling stages crawling with biomechanical monstrosities, heavily armored tanks, and screen-filling robotic bosses. Players begin armed with a standard rapid-fire plasma rifle, but can collect scattered power-up crates to unleash devastating alternate payloads, including wide-spread lasers, homing missiles, and devastating smart-bombs that clear the playfield. The game also introduces a strategic melee overhead slash for enemies that manage to close the distance, adding a visceral edge to the frantic bullet-hell chaos.
Keyboard Controls
- Arrow Keys / D-Pad: Move
- Action Keys: Attack / Jump
- Enter: Start / Pause
Video
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★ 3.7 / 5 · 55 votes
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