The Best Shoot ‘Em Ups On Switch To Play in 2024 – Cave, M2 STG, Taito, and More Shmups – TouchArcade

Welcome to the primary SwitchArcade Particular of 2024. It has been virtually two years since Shaun wrote in regards to the best shoot ’em ups (or shmups) on Switch, and rather a lot has modified since then, principally for the higher. With a number of improbable collections, standalone releases, boutique gourmand (I’ll get to this) standalone titles from M2, indie video games, and extra, the Change is in a improbable place for shmups of many sorts. I’ve been having fun with a great deal of them over the past two years particularly, and have put collectively an inventory of the very best ones which I maintain going again to, and a few bonus ones which can be price contemplating as standard.

Ever since I received into shmups years in the past by Dariusburst and the Psikyo releases, I’ve been studying extra in regards to the style and making an attempt out the various video games veteran gamers advocate throughout platforms. I additionally began taking part in a lot of them with the 8BitDo Arcade Stick on Change, and have loved taking part in in handheld mode with the Hori Break up Pad Compact not too long ago. Taking part in shmups from completely different platforms ported to Change has additionally been eye opening with studying about how input lag varies and in addition discovering how wonderful M2 ShotTriggers is since I purchased ESP Ra.De. Psi. on Change.

I initially wished to maintain this to only 10 video games because the “prime 10″ listing for 2024 up to now, however similar to an M2 ShotTriggers launch, I’ve determined to incorporate greater than I ought to, along with bonus video games and issues to provide you sufficient shmup video games so as to add to your wishlist or purchase and play for years to come back. I’ve performed all of the video games beneath on Change and in addition play them on different platforms when attainable. As standard, this listing is in no explicit order.

Mushihimesama ($19.99)

Let’s begin this factor out sturdy we could? Cave’s 2004 arcade traditional Mushihimesama is an superior recreation by itself that occurs to even be one of many developer’s extra beginner-friendly titles. This launch on Change from Stay Wire feels nice to play, and features a plethora of modes. I’ve loved taking part in this on each Change and Steam Deck, and it actually shines on the nice OLED show if in case you have one. Mushihimesama can be a really influential recreation with its distinctive insect-themed setting, and it occurs to look beautiful. I’ll be overlaying extra of Stay Wire’s Change ports right here, however I believe Mushihimesama is the proper entry level right into a improbable developer’s library, and one that’s important for any Change shmup fanatic or newcomer.

Deathsmiles (Deathsmiles I + II) ($39.99)

Whereas this isn’t obtainable by itself on the Change, I’ve included solely Cave’s 2007-released Deathsmiles right here. Deathsmiles, obtainable as part of the Deathsmiles I + II assortment on Change, is without doubt one of the finest horizontal shmups of all time. Horizontal shmups often swimsuit the Change higher for moveable play, and whereas Deathsmiles isn’t as responsive as the very best ports to the system in terms of enter lag, it’s improbable with its plethora of content material included, and remains to be price getting. Deathsmiles is considered one of my favourite horizontal shmups ever, and I’ve loved it fairly a bit on Change. This bundled launch is a little more costly in comparison with different shmups on this listing, however there’s no denying the worth supplied even with out taking Deathsmiles II into the equation. Deathsmiles is a good shmup to replay annually as we get into the vacation season and Halloween.

DoDonPachi DaiOuJou Re:Incarnation (Import)

Already an import recreation? Nicely, doing a finest shmups listing and never together with DOJ (DoDonPachi DaiOuJou) could be doing a disservice. This recreation by itself would’ve been price making a Japanese eShop account for, however having it delivered to Change by M2 ShotTriggers is sort of a dream come true. It’s a improbable launch of among the finest shmups of all time. DOJ AKA DoDonPachi Blissful Loss of life, is taken into account almost excellent, and barring one menu problem on Change, I’ve no complaints with it. The hyper system, chaining rating system, bees (for rating), and issue rank system all come collectively to provide you a recreation that’s price your money and time on any day.

G Darius HD ($29.99)

ININ’s launch of G Darius HD within the West (printed by Taito in Japan and developed by M2) was really my first style of this recreation. Initially launched in 1997 by Taito in arcades, G Darius hit trendy programs within the West by ININ Video games and was priced at $29.99. I questioned why this was priced so excessive in comparison with the Darius collections since this was a single recreation. I ate my phrases quickly after as a result of G Darius HD ended up being a recreation I favored sufficient to the purpose the place I’d pay $60 for it. M2 even went again and patched an enormous 2.0 model as a free replace making it even higher. Whereas not an M2 ShotTriggers launch in identify, that is mainly as shut as one can get. The horizontal shmup with its wonderful music, seize ball mechanic, twists on traditional Darius taste, and extra actually is a superb launch.

Darius Gaiden (Darius Cozmic Assortment Arcade) ($44.99)

One other Darius M2 launch, the Darius Cozmic Assortment Arcade, contains many Darius video games, however the standout is Darius Gaiden (1994). One other recreation I hadn’t heard of (I want I had gotten into shmups earlier!) till the Change assortment was introduced, Darius Gaiden is rapidly climbing up my prime video games of all time listing, not simply shmups. It has a legendary soundtrack, very good gameplay (that we see constructed on in G Darius), and is precisely the type of creativity I like seeing from Taito. In the event you’ve by no means performed a Darius recreation, this assortment is certainly well worth the asking value, however Darius Gaiden is pure bliss with its branching paths and replay worth.

Espgaluda II ($19.99)

I haven’t performed the primary Espgaluda, however Espgaluda II (2005 arcade recreation) with its beautiful gameplay that includes threat reward mechanics and plethora of options included makes for a simple advice. It’s one other nice Cave Change launch from Stay Wire, and one which isn’t on every other trendy platform as of this writing. I favored Espgaluda II a lot that I imported the Japanese restricted version bodily on Change. If the look of this one appeals to you, it even has a novice mode that eases you into issues, and is price its low asking value. I like the look, music, and gameplay. There’s no draw back to this launch actually.

Radiant Silvergun ($19.99)

Most shmup followers or newcomers appear to know of Treasure’s Radiant Silvergun. The 1998-released arcade recreation was ported to Sega Saturn and Xbox 360 earlier than seeing a Nintendo Change port. I performed this on Xbox initially, however have loved Stay Wire’s Change launch much more. In the event you’ve by no means heard of it, Radiant Silvergun isn’t the same old shmup mechanically. It blends a number of genres collectively and makes for a extra participating expertise than you’d count on. It’s undoubtedly one of many extra distinctive shmups I’ve ever performed, and I’m glad to see it obtainable on a transportable with such an excellent conversion (after patches).

Crimzon Clover World Explosion ($19.99)

I first heard of Crimzon Clover by its PC launch from developer Yotsubane and writer Komodo (beforehand Degica), however when it was launched on Change as Crimzon Clover – World EXplosion, it felt like good insanity distilled right into a shmup. I performed an hour non cease and was in love after I received it. Whereas it has a number of small points with its technical aspect on Change in comparison with Steam, it stays among the finest shmups on the platform and among the finest of all time within the style. Crimzon Clover – World EXplosion additionally occurs to be a terrific entry level into the style regardless of its daunting screenshots. Some think about this a biggest hits of the very best shmup mechanics, however Crimzon Clover – World EXplosion does sufficient to be its personal factor. The builders undoubtedly love the style and perceive what makes a terrific shmup right here.

Danmaku Limitless 3 ($14.99)

TouchArcade readers will likely be acquainted with this one, and I first performed it on iOS as nicely. Danmaku Unlimited 3 debuted on iOS over half a decade in the past with its kickass soundtrack and wonderful bullet grazing mechanics. Doragon Leisure’s shmup is one other improbable entry level into the style, and it was one of many first few video games I performed in TATE mode on Change. There are a number of issue choices and an excellent curve that ramps issues up with out being unfair. The visuals may really feel a bit missing to some, however I like every part about Danmaku Limitless 3, and was glad it lastly received a bodily launch because of the Change port. I play this often on iOS, Change, Steam Deck, and even PS5 now. It’s particular, and I can’t look forward to the developer’s subsequent recreation.

Ray’z Arcade Chronology ($49.99)

Thus far, the video games I’ve included listed below are all prime tier video games that I’d advocate at full value. Ray’z Arcade Chronology, alternatively, is a improbable assortment I like to recommend at full value, however the video games aren’t nearly as good on their very own. This set contains RayForce (1994), RayCrisis (1998), and RayStorm (1996) collectively. I’d say 2/3 of this trilogy is price it, however the entire bundle is greater than the sum of its components because of M2’s wonderful work bringing three distinctive Taito video games to trendy programs. RayForce itself is well worth the lion’s share of the asking value for me, however I do get pleasure from dipping into RayStorm & RayCrisis as nicely. Simply ensure you don’t purchase the mistaken assortment right here as a result of there’s one other one which has solely two video games priced at $39.99, and in addition one other launch titled Layer Part & Galactic Assault which can be not price shopping for. The one to purchase is Ray’Z Arcade Chronology ($49.99) with three video games included by Taito, M2, and ININ Video games.

Drainus ($19.99)

Drainus gained a number of awards in our TouchArcade GOTY 2023 options on Change, and it’s Crew Ladybug’s masterpiece. The shmup blends in a number of mechanics from the shmup greats, however delivers superlative visuals within the Crew Ladybug fashion and even has an fascinating story. I like the power-up system and the way accessible it’s, however veteran gamers may be turned off by the problem not being as constant. I’ve adored Drainus on Steam Deck and Change, and it’s considered one of my favourite horizontal shmups of all time. The weapon system makes replaying it much more enjoyable regardless of it being a bit straightforward.

Rolling Gunner + Overpower ($19.99 + $9.99)

Rolling Gunner with its Overpower DLC makes for a improbable shmup bundle, albeit one that could be a bit missing visually. Barring the visuals feeling generic in sure elements, it has an incredible soundtrack, good gameplay mechanics, and is tremendous addictive. Whereas the Change model presents Rolling Gunner by itself, I’d actually think about the Overpower DLC as part of the principle recreation to provide it much more meat. The mixed bundle and the distinctive gameplay motion system with assaults makes this a simple advice at full value. It additionally is without doubt one of the uncommon video games I can advocate on Change with no caveats. In reality, I’m sure you’ll seize it on different platforms as nicely as a result of Rolling Gunner + Overpower is price proudly owning in every single place.

Eschatos ($26.99)

Qute’s Eschatos by itself is a superb shmup packed stuffed with nice modes and options, however the Change model additionally ships with Judgement Silversword and Cardinal Sins making it even higher. It’s an incredible addition to the Change’s library, and one more nice entry level primarily based on how I discovered it after I first performed it. It undoubtedly excels for its scoring and weapon programs, however the Eschatos soundtrack is known. I additionally love how the angle modifications throughout the gameplay in Eschatos.

DoDonPachi Resurrection ($19.99)

DoDonPachi Resurrection AKA DoDonPachi DaiFukkatsu debuted again in 2008 in arcades by Cave. It noticed its Change debut by Stay Wire, and was a content-packed launch that I beloved entering into after taking part in it on different platforms earlier than. DoDonPachi Resurrection was one of many first few shmups I fell in love with, and I’m glad it has such a terrific bundle on Change. Along with the conventional recreation, there are arranges, black label, and extra all with wonderful music included. Novice modes are additionally obtainable to make issues simpler for newcomers. Whereas most individuals think about DoDonPachi DOJ (featured above) as the very best recreation in Cave’s DoDonPachi collection, DoDonPachi Resurrection remains to be a necessary.

ESP Ra.De. Psi (Import)

ESP Ra.De. Psi is definitely what received me to interrupt away from doing a prime 10 Change shmups and simply drift and embody all of the video games I think about price full value and value taking part in. Once I found the M2 ShotTriggers lineup of releases on-line, I ended up shopping for ESP Ra.De. Psi on Change as the primary style of the collection. I fell in love with not solely ESP Ra.De. from Cave by ESP Ra.De. Psi, but additionally M2 as a developer with this. I used to be acquainted with M2 by SEGA Ages and SEGA 3D Classics, however ESP Ra.De. Psi by M2 ShotTriggers is wonderful. ESP Ra.De. Psi’s music, visuals, and energy gauge mechanic all mix for a refreshing shmup that I solely want had extra recognition locally. I’ve no regrets shopping for ESP Ra.De. Psi twice at full value, and hope to get into it on PS5 quickly as nicely the place I’ve a greater arcade stick.

Raiden IV X Mikado Remix ($29.99)

Regardless of proudly owning developer MOSS’ Raiden IV on Steam, I by no means actually spent an excessive amount of time with it till Raiden IV X Mikado Remix hit Change and ultimately got here to extra platforms. Raiden IV X Mikado Remix, Raiden IV’s latest model, doesn’t provide a lot over the prevailing launch, however remains to be a improbable launch for newcomers and essentially the most accessible model of the sport obtainable right now. It’s my favourite Raiden recreation by far with its sturdy design, new modes, soundtrack and glorious Change launch. I don’t see it in lots of shmup lists for some purpose, nevertheless it deserves extra consideration. In the event you have been turned off by Raiden V, Raiden IV is the one to get.

Raging Blasters ($14.99)

Terarin Video games is certainly one of the vital underrated builders within the shmup scene right now. I’ve performed most of their releases on each Steam and Change, however have spent much more time with the Change releases. Out of the video games obtainable, I flip flopped between going with Raging Blasters or Moon Dancer right here. I made a decision to go along with Raging Blasters as a result of I’ve put extra time into it, and assume it’s a improbable shmup. You actually ought to play each of them although. Terarin Video games manages to make Raging Blasters really feel like a mix of a throwback shmup and a brand new expertise with some high quality of life enhancements and a better issue curve. The PC Engine aesthetic shines, nevertheless it even has a stunning soundtrack.

Sophstar ($12.99)

Again in 2022, Shaun said that Sophstar may need been among the finest worth propositions for a shmup on Change. I purchased it quickly after and undoubtedly agreed. It’s packed stuffed with nice phases, modes, and beautiful visuals. It has some good unlockable content material and on-line leaderboards as nicely. I nonetheless can’t recover from the standard content material right here at its low asking value. Sophstar is without doubt one of the finest latest releases within the style. Go purchase it now.

Progear (Capcom Arcade Stadium DLC) ($1.99)

In the event you like horizontal shmups, Progear (obtainable as Capcom Arcade Stadium DLC) is the very best shmup in that assortment, and a improbable expertise for followers of Cave. It was Cave’s solely horizontal shmup till Deathsmiles, and whereas it doesn’t have the visible aptitude because the developer’s later releases, it’s a improbable and difficult expertise. It’s completely price getting at its low asking value. The accessibility choices within the Capcom Arcade Stadium may also assist make it extra playable for newcomers. I’m glad Capcom lastly allowed me to play this on each trendy platform by the Arcade Stadium launch.

Cotton Reboot ($39.99)

Cotton Reboot was my first style of the Cotton franchise of cute ’em ups. It contains two variations of the unique recreation (the X68000 port of the arcade recreation and a remake of the primary recreation with upgraded visuals and mechanics). I discovered them each price taking part in, and the colourful visuals and nice music come collectively to make fairly an impression right here. The gameplay mechanics are additionally actually good. In the event you’ve by no means heard of Cotton or performed a recreation within the collection, that is price your time. It additionally feels very good on Change.

Bonus

M2 ShotTriggers’ Toaplan Arcade Storage Releases

Whereas lots of the M2 ShotTriggers lineup may be very a lot a gourmand a number of course meal expertise, the three Toaplan Arcade Storage releases are a bit tougher to advocate except what you’re getting. I purchased each the Tiger Heli and the Hishou Similar Similar Similar collections as a result of I belief Shaun, and I ended up liking them. I can’t advocate them as a lot because the video games featured above on this article at full value, however I believe they’re price maintaining a tally of, or grabbing for those who’re all for them. The Zero Hearth launch from this collection might be the one most individuals find out about essentially the most. We would see these hit the West, however I don’t like ready too lengthy so I simply grabbed them from the Japanese eShop.

Hamster’s ACA NeoGeo and Arcade Archives Releases ($7.99 every)

Hamster’s glorious Arcade Archives and ACA NeoGeo collection have introduced a mixed a number of tons of of video games to Change and PlayStation over time. On Change, there are some notable shmups on this collection, however not all of them are price your time. From the various shmups within the Arcade Archives and ACA NeoGeo collection, video games like Terra Cresta, Metallic BLack (Additionally in Taito Milestones 2), and Blazing Star have stood out for me, along with others just like the Darius and Gradius video games included. I’m together with these as a bonus so that you just take a look at the plethora of games available.

The Future and Video games I Missed

There are nonetheless some shmups I need to see hit Change like M2 ShotTriggers’ Battle Garegga and Ketsui that I get pleasure from taking part in on PS5. I’d even get Dangun Feveron from M2 if it makes its method right here, however barring these, I’d like to see Zero Ranger and Blue Revolver (spoilers for my Steam listing) make their technique to Change. Past the video games I’d like to see ported, there are additionally video games I haven’t performed but on Change, however have performed on different platforms like Hazelnut Hex, or video games I haven’t performed in any respect on any platform like Gunvein.

I’ll be making time for them this yr for certain, alongside the Aleste Assortment from M2 that’s most likely the largest blind spot in my shmup library on Change proper now. Hopefully the subsequent time I do that characteristic on Change, I even have one other arcade stick for the system with a Seimitsu lever, however I’ll save that dialogue for one more time.

There you have got it. My goal with this characteristic is that can assist you uncover a shmup you hadn’t heard of that’s price your money and time, or to remind you to get again to a traditional you’ve loved earlier than. In the event you assume I missed one thing notable right here, please let me know within the feedback beneath. Be sure that to test Shaun’s older list from 2021 as well. Thanks for studying.