Pulstar

It is actually believed that some ex-Irem employees left the company to join Aicom, which used to be a subcontractor for various coin-op manufacturers like Jaleco or SNK.

Despite the familiarities, Pulstar is not without innovations.

There is the option of using the weapon power bar, which consists of two halves.

The right-hand side of the bar turns blue when the fire button is depressed.

When fully charged the ship delivers a devastating emission of energy.

The left-hand side turns red when it is continually pressed, shooting out a barrage of smaller, rapid blasts.

The in-game visuals are mostly pre-rendered 3D graphics, which gives the interactive elements a far more realistic appearance.

Great care was taken to really place the player into the world of the game, with cinematic style cut scenes and pre-rendered movies.

There is a hefty reliance on strategy and not just blasting everything in sight.

Using the charged weapon is key, and requires careful precision.

Also, once a power up is obtained, a small orb appears at the posterior end of the ship.

This can be used as an advantage by deflecting/absorbing oncoming enemy fire and taking out small enemies that run into it.