Gyruss

Gyruss caught you off guard from the very first quarter. Instead of sliding side to side like every other space shooter, your ship orbited the edge of the screen and fired toward the center while stars streaked past like you were hurtling through space. And behind it all, a synthesized classical piece that got stuck in your head for days.

Gyruss isn't on UsuArcade yet, but it's on our wishlist. If you want it in the lobby, vote with “I want to play it.”

History

Konami released Gyruss in 1983. It was designed by Yoshiki Okamoto, who went on to big things at Capcom. The idea was to take the classic formation shooter and give it a whole new angle with a real sense of depth.

Its soundtrack is one of the most memorable of the era: a take on the Toccata and Fugue in D minor attributed to Johann Sebastian Bach, set to an electronic beat that fits the action perfectly.

How to play

Your ship circles the edge of the screen and shoots toward the center, where enemies pour out in swirling formations. They loop around before settling in, and that's your best chance to pick them off for bonus points.

The trip is divided into planets: after a few stages you reach a new one on your way to Earth. Take out the satellites that appear in the middle, since one of them can power up your shot. Between planets there are bonus rounds where enemies don't attack and all that counts is your aim.

Fun facts

• Yoshiki Okamoto designed it before his years at Capcom.
• The music is a version of the Toccata and Fugue in D minor attributed to Bach.
• Your ship moves around the screen instead of just left and right.

In the arcade

Coming soon to UsuArcade. Once it's here, you'll be able to play in your browser, let others watch your game live and compete for the high score. Until then, if you're in the mood for ships and enemy formations, sit down at Galaxian, Phoenix or Asteroids: they're already in the lobby and free to play.

FAQ