Every Mega Drive Shoot Em Up REVIEWED!

[@maskedbadass6802]

Don't mind me, just marking the S tier games 8:40 Atomic Runner 19:05 Battlemania 2 37:49 Darius Extra 48:08 Elemental Master 51:12 Eliminate Down 01:01:25 Gaiares 01:36:40 Musha Aleste 01:43:38 Panorama Cotton 01:51:29 Ranger X 02:01:09 Slap Fight MD 02:29:59 Thunder Force III 02:32:35 Thunder Force IV

[@ShmupJunkie]

Feel free! Once I finish up my spreadsheet I'll post it as well.

[@chrisw8069]

Anyone have a A Tier games list?

[@ampplays]

Atomic Runner def the surprise hidden gem here!

[@daviddefortier5970]

Oh i needed this thanks.. to the creator of this video.. please do an S & A rank of all arcade shooters (mame)

[@francescosmith7859]

@@ShmupJunkie yes please! That would be very helpful.

[@peace4myheart]

Only a person who lives and breathes Shmups can put something together like this. The passion and dedication can be seen throughout the video. While I also love shmups, I'm just glad there are people like you who I can live vicariously through. Jolly good show, my man. Bravo!

[@ShmupJunkie]

Haha, live on my man. It sure takes every last bit of dedication to power through these massive projects but I still enjoy it a lot. Especially putting it out there for everyone to enjoy and have it be a reference for years to come.

[@Top10WizardReviews]

It takes dedication to talk about video games? You're a true hero. Oh, also a joke.

[@malcolmar]

Agreed!

[@chrisgude1091]

Ich liebe euch 🤗👍

[@tron.44]

@@Top10WizardReviewscan I see your review of anything that won't make me regret?

[@mylifeingaming]

[Coury] This just made the last 3 and a half hours of creating and rendering motion graphics much more tolerable. Amazing work and dedication here. The main one I'm missing here is Battle Mania 2 - I streamed it a couple of months ago and it's absolutely one of the best games on the system. I'd love to own it one day, but there's no way I could afford it.

[@ShmupJunkie]

I’m glad I could make your monotonous task just a little more entertaining lol. If anyone knows the insane amount of time it takes to put together a comprehensive and researched video it’s you guys. I’m a sucker for quirky and unique games, but I wouldn’t be buying it at todays prices either. If anything it’s burning a hole on my shelf knowing it’s value. Had no idea you streamed that one!

[@rockmanfan5104]

It almost costs as much as a brand new special edition switch game

[@CPS2]

@@rockmanfan5104 Brand new special edition switch games cost $2,000?

[@TheElectricUnderground]

It s crazy how massive and detailed this vid is! I shudder at the thought of all of the hours editing all this footage ha. I actually didn't realize how many rail shooters on the genesis! I need to play more space harrier too

[@ShmupJunkie]

I shudder at the thought looking back! lol jk. It's hundreds of hours I don't keep track or it would make it harder. I just enjoy the process and accept it'll take forever, in the hopes that the final result will be something that plays well for a long time and remains useful for a wide variety of people. I was never a huge rail shooter player and the older consoles struggled to do them justice, but Panorama Cotton was a mighty impressive one.

[@TheElectricUnderground]

@@ShmupJunkie yes this will be a great resource for the genre! No doubt about it :-)

[@AlchemistTongueDrums]

Oh HELL YES DUDE!!!! You really got me into the PC Engine library. I've cleared Blazing Lazers, Gate of Thunder, Lords of Thunder, Soldier Blade, Final Soldier, Star Parodier, Override, and Magical Chase last year. This year I'm diving into the Sega library and currently learning Sagaia, which is fun af imo.

[@ShmupJunkie]

That's a killer lineup of games... must've been a blast playing through all of them. Darius Extra that M2 put out on the Mega Drive is fantastic. I give it a good showing in this upcoming video. No doubt you'll find a bunch here too to dive into.

[@ungabungus01]

Same bro, played all of those games except override last year also

[@Evillagomez07]

😊😊 ur your truck keys in 😊😊😊😊😮😊😮😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊uuoô😮

[@AKTANEARCADE]

Having played a few of these games, it is my pleasure to say that even though these reviews are fairly short, they are ON POINT. like everything is spot on, that would take so much time to get them so concise and still accurate, covering all the high points while also getting through so many games... I dont know how this man does it :)

[@ShmupJunkie]

To be fair, many of them have been in development for decades haha. As I played them back as a kid and then again occasionally through the years. But many were new to me too, so it was a ton of work making sure I didn't give those games the short end of the stick. I super appreciate you helping out with some of the gameplay on these and making my work just a little bit easier.

[@usmanchughtai1751]

They have to be short, since we’re covering over 100 games

[@datbo7974]

The genesis shootemup library is just phenomenal. With some of my favorite ports of arcade games and amazing unique originals . Also I respect that you took the time to do all this. Great dedication

[@mwarz1899]

This is honestly the best twist of fate. I get that Sol-Feace review the day before my birthday. Thank you Shump buddy. Peace and love and keep on doing gods work talking about my favorite genre of games.

[@pedroTFP]

Man, you’re a legend! You do a great service to both the STG and Retrogaming community. Thank you!!!

[@ShmupJunkie]

You're welcome. This library is legendary and I did my best to do it justice.

[@elmetz5864]

Can't wait! I hope further down the road we get similar videos for each and every console.

[@ShmupJunkie]

I would love to as I enjoy making them. They’re a massive amount of work so long as they keep doing well and people are interested I’ll keep making them. 👍🏻

[@ryuasobu3333]

@@ShmupJunkie may I suggest the mighty Sega Saturn? Please! Or rather: PLEASEpleasepleasepleasepleaseplease! Please. Please. Please. Please. Please. [making a song out of it] oh-baby please please PLEASE! (That was 'Please' by A Gone VP Yettie with Tarnished on bass.")

[@ShmupJunkie]

@@ryuasobu3333 Saturn is pretty guaranteed at some point soon. Though I’ve also considered doing it as a Saturn vs PSX video comparing all the best exclusive games. Then the arcade ports and which ones are best on each since there are lots with overlap there. Change up the formula a bit but still cover every game worth covering. Rest assured Planet Joker will be in there 🤣

[@ShmupJunkie]

Every MEGA DRIVE Shooter Ranked & Reviewed! Don't miss this 3+ hour epic celebration of the Mega Drive library. Thank you to everyone who joined for the Premiere. If you love my content and want to contribute to my ability to make it as awesome as possible, please ► Join my Patreon! - www.patreon.com/shmupjunkieslushfund

[@vudusid8717]

My fave on the MD is Thunder Force 3. I 1cc it sometimes just for the music. TF4 also.

[@vudusid8717]

@Brian Babin I converted my old PS3 into a retro gaming machine the other day. I'm going to play Fire Shark tonight on your recommendation bud! 😉

[@draskang]

man, love this video. I know you're shmup junkie but I'd love if you did a list like this for all fighting fighting games or brawlers.. heh

[@Skysmeller1]

This is a really good video, your use of the Game Rating faces from early 90s GamePro Magazines is the little easter eggs that make the video that much better.

[@digitalworms]

Love the video!!! This is gonna take me a while to watch but gonna do! And really thanks for the nastagia gamepro rating guy that's sweet! Thank you man!

[@DawnHibiki]

Genesis / Mega Drive has full of fun action-packed shooters, and I have to say that I really love both Thunder Force III and IV, especially IV which has such killer soundtrack and balancing weapon system. I'm so glad you have rated both of those Thunder Force games as S.

[@ShmupJunkie]

I think if I didn’t rate them S people would riot 🤣. But yes they deserve it both fantastic games. Some even like 3 more than 4.

[@DawnHibiki]

I can definitely understand why some like III more than IV since III is more beginner-friendly, and they enjoy using Sever which fires very powerful lasers that can decimate bosses in seconds.

[@brady9592]

Another very epic project from Shmup Junkie, an absolute legend.

[@user98xp]

Can't wait, dude! Thanks in advance for doing every Megadrive shooter! My favorite Megadrive shooter is Vapor Trail. Pew pew!

[@ShmupJunkie]

With the same one bad ass song for the entire game! lol I know it well.

[@shiningphantasy1393]

Glad you're including the Sega CD and 32x shooters as that puts the video in uniformity with the excellent Turbografx/Turbo CD one that you did. Of course MUSHA, Thunder Force III and IV, Lords of Thunder are top-shelf and well known but the Mega Drive also had a lot of upper-tier sleeper games like Wings of Wor and Android Assault too, among plenty of others which all get their day in the sun now.

[@ShmupJunkie]

If I didn't include them it really wouldn't be every Mega Drive shooter but just a pretender to the throne haha. I really tried to get anything in there that would even be considered a shooter even if not traditional. In the end I may have even missed one or two really obscure, somewhat hybrid games I didn't even know existed. But this is about as exhaustive as I could come up with. At the end I even talk about and show some of the more popular games with shooting stages within like Rocket Knight, Batman & Robin, Gunstar etc.

[@shiningphantasy1393]

@@ShmupJunkie Great video so far; I've gotten to Forgotten Worlds and a comment popped into my head; it's fair that the Turbo CD version is the more premium edition however the Genesis version did offer parallax scrolling and did not have the amount of sprite flicker that the PC Engine did even being on a meager 4 megabit cart. The music I like both versions for different reason. Maybe the biggest thing though is that you could actually play the Genesis version in a timely fashion as the Turbo CD version did not come out until 1992. Edit: Finished watching and you did a great job here. Speaking of really hard games I didn't notice Target Earth anywhere; did you miss that one (Or did I miss it while watching?) or do you not find it to fit the genre? I kind of feel like if Ranger X is included that Target Earth is as much of an example within the genre.

[@billranes1214]

Your passion for shmups is infectious,thank you for these videos.

[@ShmupJunkie]

You're welcome!

[@RaydinAE11]

Your passion and enthusiasm really got me into shooters. I just went for it and scored some extra retro consoles and games and dived right in. Thank you man!!!!

[@ShmupJunkie]

You're welcome. That's exactly why I'm doing this as much as any other reason, so I appreciate the comment and letting me know. Thank you

[@lennypena5587]

I was unable to finish this video in one day, I had to watch it an hour here half and hour there, but let me tell you, this was so well done I enjoyed every minute of it. Thank you so much for taking the time and effort to put this all together. Awesome Awesome job man you deserve all the credit in the world, you've also peaked my interest in playing a number of shoot em ups I had never heard of before watching this.. Thanks again!

[@ShmupJunkie]

You’re welcome. And I’ve got more coming and working on one for SNES and Neo Geo next. Plus I already made some others for the PC Engine and even all Konami shooters! Always a huge amount of work but love the way they come out. Really glad it helped you discover new shooters to check out.

[@lennypena5587]

@@ShmupJunkie I will definitely be looking forward to the SENS and Neo Geo vids, and I'm actually watching the PC Engine one now. Thanks again for your amazing content.

[@TheRestartPoint]

Epic as usual. I've played every conventionally known Mega Drive shmup but this video still gave me about 7 games to look up that I hadn't considered before, just like I knew it would. Thanks for keeping the old consoles living !!!

[@Nihilous]

Absolutely awesome! I’ll need to watch this again and again. I also love how you’ve added scanlines without KZbin’s compression wreaking havoc. That footage looks so much better with them. These games just need scanlines. Great job!

[@ShmupJunkie]

It's weird, I had other people mention the scanlines too, but I didn't add them for most of the games. Because of the youtube compression ruining them like you said. A handful of these game clips do have scanlines though because I recorded them long ago using my OSSC. And I love the way they look. It's kind of hit and miss what youtube will do with them so I stopped using them with recordings a while back. So I'm glad to hear some of my older footage translated well and looked good for you while streaming!

[@francescosmith7859]

Holy cow! This was a massive undertaking and I’m going to enjoy soaking this in. Great stuff!

[@ShmupJunkie]

That it was! And please do. Take your time and enjoy it in a way you can get the most out of exploring some new games. At your own pace.

[@francescosmith7859]

@@ShmupJunkie thank you again. I added around 30 games to my playlist with many I’ve never tried before and a whole bunch that I need to replay. You can be guaranteed I will be coming back to this video bunches of times.

[@Chan_Prado]

The only shmup fan who can top Shmup Junkie is the man himself! :D What an incredible undertaking this video was, and what a joy it was to watch every moment of it! There were definitely a few games here and there I overlooked in the past or flat-out underestimated, and I'm so glad you put a spotlight on them. I appreciated the fairness with which you reviewed each one, as well as the context you provided for your ratings. I also appreciate that you mention which games are good for beginners with zero judgment; it's good to have a genre advocate like yourself who remembers what it's like to need entry points without all the superfan gatekeeping. The combination of your narration, true shmup mechanics knowledge, and ability to provide context for these games is unmatched, my friend. Players looking to understand why we love this genre and history need no other starting point than to watch your content. Keep up the great work!

[@TetsuoIronMan]

I’ve said this on previous videos of yours, but Gaiares, Thunder Force II/III, and Super/R-Type III exposed me to SHMUPS in the late 90s, and I still in my early 30s now listen to the Gaiares OST. Can’t wait to watch this.

[@ShmupJunkie]

I hope you enjoy it! Those are all top tier games and some of my favorites. I am guessing a SNES video may be next. It had some seriously high quality shooters despite getting a lot of slack, and even a lot more than people realize.

[@megavolt67]

​@@ShmupJunkie The slack comes from the old 16-bit wars rivalry that leads some diehard Sega fans in particular to pretend every SNES shmup was a worthless mess of slowdown. However, as someone who was fortunate enough to grow up with both consoles, you are correct. Though fewer and farther in-between compared to Genesis and especially PC Engine (the king of shmups), the SNES had some great shmups (Super Aleste and R-Type III ftw) as well as a fair number of solid ones.

[@karajoe2822]

One of the best videos that I saw on youtube! I’m 45 and the Mega Drive is my favorite console hands down and watching your video was a trip down memory lane :) Thanks and greetings from Brazil!

[@Chinopolis]

FINALLY made it through this beast, huge thanks for putting videos like this together. As always my free time takes a hit with the must play shmups I find out about after watching one of these. Android Assault, Elemental Master, Elminate Down, and Undeadline are the damage this time, that music is just too good to pass up.

[@ShmupJunkie]

It’s always good to know I can help somehow in your search for good new games to clear you may not have considered. Elemental Master will be a breeze for your skill but you’ll enjoy how cool it is while it lasts. My best guess is you’ll enjoy Eliminate Down the most, it’s the best pure shooter and the most technically accomplished. Really a game that any fan of horizontal shooters should play. Undeadline will test your patience because of the “why” it’s difficult. I simply find the frantic pace of the game very replayable despite its issues. But I’ll be curious which you find your favorite in the end.

[@Rick_Ibbott]

Opening up with Metal Squad from Thunderforce IV. You legend. The Megadrive sound is awesome in the correct hands.

[@evilashxero]

It's really wild to learn that the team that made Thunder Force III left and made Gate and Lords of Thunder. Makes sense, especially with Gate. But then, somehow, Technosoft were able to make IV without them. Just wild. Things just panned out for the best for shooting fans, on that one.

[@ShmupJunkie]

If you haven’t already seen it I did a very in-depth segment on that team in a history of Technosoft video including the other games they worked on and company they founded. Which is still around! Technosoft went on a hiring spree without them and took double the time, two years to make part 4 as good as possible. Some still say the third game was better in terms of gameplay but nobody could ever argue that IV wasn’t one of the most incredible looking and sounding games ever.

[@j-morecoffeepls]

Love Eliminate Down, Musha, Thunder Force IV, Gaiares, and Ranger X!!

[@st1ka]

Oh man! I've been waiting for this. Gonna have to watch it in parts though :D

[@ShmupJunkie]

Us content creators don't have much free time to watch other videos so I know how it goes. I'm glad you found time to watch even some of it and at least see the couple segments with your contribution.

[@silentfanatic]

Nothing like being thorough. Thanks for this exhaustively comprehensive video!

[@ShmupJunkie]

You're welcome. I just hope it has long legs and helps people get into the library more and discover new games for a long time.

[@chriscalvert4609]

Thanks for this amazing video, Junkie. I’ve been waiting on this one ever since you graced us with the PC Engine catalog. The Mega Drive is the only system that gives the PCE a run for its money in the shmups genre.

[@ShmupJunkie]

The PCE video was so popular it was only a matter of time before I made this. I’d still love to make more down the line, but if this had to be the last, it’s certainly the console I would’ve picked.

[@SolBuster]

Hey man. Just wanted to say. I beat Raging Blasters on Switch while playing this video in the background. The credits rolled, last credit came up and I saw "Special Thanks: Shmup Junkie" That's amazing dude. You've truly made your mark in this scene I'll be a fan forever. Thank you dude.

[@ShmupJunkie]

Oh yeah! That was super cool of Terarin to put me into the credits. Along with the great butt shot haha. We did a caravan contest for the game and really helped promote it, so he added me in the credits. Really a fantastic game, so easy to pick up and play for anyone.

[@bobbus_74]

Well after watching this from start to finish, all I can say is wow! The effort put into making something this comprehensive is nothing short of amazing. I'll be saving this and referring to it every time I feel like playing a Megadrive Shmup. Great stuff mate 👍

[@ShmupJunkie]

You certainly know your MD shmups too my friend, so I'm glad it could still throw a handful of new and interesting ones your way to try. At least when I do the SNES video it won't be nearly as massive, though I am finding that it has a lot more than I originally thought. People will be surprised.

[@bobbus_74]

@@ShmupJunkie I'll look forward to the snes video too for sure. In the meantime I'll try out some of these MD shmups that I'm not familiar with.

[@nolancampbell4451]

I watch these videos over and over. such a gift to any video game fan.

[@sunglasesatnight]

This channel deserves million subscribers.

[@ShmupJunkie]

I wish! That would mean shooters are truly back baby!

[@infamoswordz]

Sega is the shoot em up console king even now to this day. No question. This was a great video thank you!

[@bonesjackson81]

Absolutely a hell of an undertaking. Imo the greatest library of shmups. Random thing, I was pretty jazzed to finally see someone that digs Bio Hazzard Battle music too. One game I always thought demanded a sequel. Woulda loved seeing that on the Saturn. Speaking of, Saturn shmups next?!

[@ShmupJunkie]

Ha! Maybe I could use a breather and go for something like the SNES or Neo Geo. Both had some really high quality games but the libraries were smaller so it won't take quite as long to put one out. The Saturn is a no brainer, I think it's going to be required at some point.

[@francescosmith7859]

@@ShmupJunkie it would be great to get your opinion on the SNES shooters. I can’t even imagine how much time and effort go into monster videos like these so take your time. We will wait and know it’s worth it 😀

[@excessofficialTV]

There is some of the ideas / content, that looks pretty similar on Panzer Dragoon Zwei for Saturn, especially during the jungle stage

[@dariuseviltwin]

Well worth the wait! THE definitive MD shooter list with that trademark ShmupJunkie production quality. Superb 👌

[@BURRITO44]

Excellent video

[@martinevans1206]

Well done, sir! Awesome video.

[@ShmupJunkie]

Thanks man! Glad you enjoyed it as always.

[@DodonEnthusiasticArt]

Incredible work my dude! This is right the BEST shmups special for the MD I've ever seen or read. Thanks for all your efforts man, #SHMUPSARESHOOTERS!!!!

[@ShmupJunkie]

Thank you buddy. So good to see you here and enjoying it too. I definitely did my best, who knows when someone else would try to do something like it again.

[@wizardexemplar5240]

Welcome back! Sega started to announce games for the U.S. Sega Genesis Mini 2, and so far, it's missing quite a few games from the Japanese release. :( I'm glad your contest was not about ranking all 80 shooters, just a small sampling of them. I don't care to guess 80 of them! (Not that I'm going to guess them correctly...)

[@ShmupJunkie]

Ha! Yeah no way that’d be excessive. 30-40 seemed like enough to not get a bunch of tie scores. Over 100 entered so far and the top score is 70%!

[@electronjunkie5697]

We're not worthy! We're not worthy! Can't wait for another epic video!

[@ShmupJunkie]

We are not worthy of this epic shooter library! Can't wait either for Sunday it's gonna be so much fun chatting with everyone.

[@BrandonTweed]

Brandon (supersparkster) here, I'm finally getting around to watching your KZbin stuff and just want to say I LOVE the enthusiasm you put in all your VO. You can instantly believe your passion for this genre. I'm really excited to try out so many of the games featured on your channel. Keep up the amazing work!

[@ShmupJunkie]

Hey man! Good to see you on here and didn’t know you had a YT account. I don’t get to spend much time on IG anymore with videos taking up most of my free time. I’ve really been enjoying it and why I chose to focus my time here. Really appreciate the comment and glad you’re enjoying some of my work. It’s come a really long way since I started just for fun a couple years ago!

[@sonicmania9993]

Sincere thanks for such a great video, just as valuable and on-the-nose as your PCE one! Truthfully, I can't decide between PCE and GenMD shmup libraries -- they're just about even for me, and I'm glad we have both. I include Saturn at that same level, even with its slightly smaller shmup library -- some of my favorite games ever are Saturn games. #1 GenMD game for me is Gaiares! ... with TF IV a close second. I like MUSHA a lot, but for some reason find myself playing Super Aleste more often. I love thinking and talking about these games. I don't know if you delete any comments, but there are so few negative voices in your comments section man! 755 comments as I'm typing this, and I only read a handful of snarky ones, pretty mild really, with only 1 or 2 jerks ... out of 755. How do you do that on KZbin?! Whatever you're doing, keep it up my friend.

[@ShmupJunkie]

Believe it or not, it’s extremely rare for me to get a comment that’s bad enough to delete or a person to block. I can’t recall the last time I had to do it. The comments section and this community is that freaking amazing and a big part of why I enjoy making the videos and interacting as much as I do. And I do my best to respond to as many as I can despite the sheer quantity being overwhelming. I spend hours doing so because it’s an important part of the channel to me. Between here and my discord I couldn’t possibly ask for a better group of people to share with. I can’t do this forever but I’ll continue as long and I’m able and enjoy it. You know where I lean in terms of my favorite console library of shooters but despite that, as you said, it’s impossible to imagine having missed out on any of them. It’s the variety and exclusives that make each so memorable.

[@arronetchells4363]

Just got round to finishing off what I missed yesterday and this video didn’t just meet my expectations, but exceeded them!! It was so great seeing the games of my childhood given the love they deserved by someone with the a infectious passion for this amazing genre!! I hope the support from twitter leading up to the launch of this video was ok. Like the Toaplan Doc, it’s something close to my heart and to support someone with the skills and knowhow to be able to make this happen is a real pleasure. Thanks again man, you’re the dogs bollocks of shmups 🤣👍

[@RobotPlaysGames]

Awesome video, as usual. Damn, you put a lot of work into these vids! One little detail that really elevated the nostalgia factor here was the faces you used to go along with the ratings; GamePro, if I’m remembering correctly? Great touch!🤘

[@ShmupJunkie]

Yep totally Gamepro and not by accident. Those faces are iconic by now and thought it’d be perfect to go with the review scores. Except for the turd on F ratings. That wasn’t Gamepro 🤣.

[@Imaxandco]

So much work and neat presentation. Phenomenal video and content. Thank you

[@atomicskull6405]

It's pretty clear that whoever programmed Curse had no experience on the Megadrive and possibly none on the 68000 either.

[@ShmupJunkie]

Or how to make a good game for that matter haha, it's not very good. But it's also not the worst of them.

[@daniloschein6142]

You are ace!! Keep going on, please! Your content is without any rivals! Greets from Eu/Ger!

[@ShmupJunkie]

Thank you. The every SNES shooter video is just completed and coming this Sunday! Look forward to it. 👍🏻

[@kevindilworthno1]

This video is now everybody reference for MD shmups, job well done junkie

[@ShmupJunkie]

Thank you... I was hoping it would be!

[@francescosmith7859]

I still can't get over what an awesome video this is. I've been getting more and more into shmups and there are plenty of videos that will show a little game footage and some people do some decent individual game reviews but to put all of this together in one? We're truly spoiled. I can't tell you how many times I've watched Joe from Game Sack do his 10 minutes of 60 shooters which was solid but I always wanted an extra 30 to 60 seconds of description for each game. Now I get that and so much more. Grind Stormer and Air Buster are two new personal favorites since watching this and I'm sure I'll continue to find more. Thanks again!

[@ShmupJunkie]

It was Joe’s Turbografx video that finally got me to break down and want to do something similar only for pc engine shooters. Which was the first I made like this. Something I always wanted to do but seemed insurmountable. It did so well I just had to make more and the mega drive was the next logical step. I just wanted to do each game more in depth and really rate each fairly, but still keep it short to under 2min per game. I’m really glad these have been popular so far. That way I can slowly keep making more.

[@francescosmith7859]

@@ShmupJunkie it’s great and your passion and knowledge ooze out of every review. Not to be greedy but can I ask for a quick follow up video? One where you just list the S and A ranked games with a link back to this and also a quick discussion of your personal favorites? Although maybe that’s a bigger video than I realize but I will continue watching. Thanks again.

[@VinuShmup]

Fantastic video! I can't even think how much effort you put into this one, so well done thank you very much. You made me go deep into Pc-Engine last time (my wallet does not thank you haha), even if I know Megadrive better I still discover some amazing titles I wanna try right now or go deeper into some that I only scratch the surface. Thanks again Shmup Junkie, I hope the next video of this kind will be the Saturn so you will cover the 3 best Shmup consoles for me!

[@ezeepeezy]

Shmup Jesus does it again!! This is absolutely epic, my friend! I'm not finished watching yet but I'm savoring every minute and taking notes of all the games that I missed along the way! Thank you so much for your passion and dedication to this genre and this community!

[@rickylovesyou]

Epic. Just epic. You and Gamesack Joe really take it to the extra extra next level. Well done on the video and thankyou for your hard work!

[@pizzabagel3840]

I did it! It took a few days and several sittings, but I finished the video! It's incredible work as always from you. You're absolutely amazing!

[@AlanMedina314]

No idea that you could create such beautiful animation on a Mega Drive. The developers really put love into many of these games by pushing the hardware to its limits.

[@CrawlingPanther]

A lot of these games look way better than the modern "pixel" games coming out on the Switch and PS4. Something about the limited tech in turn pushed creativity.

[@d.r.k565]

Excellent- passionate honest reviews- never thought I’d watch a 3 hour KZbin vid from beginning to end- educational and historical game preservation right here!

[@ShmupJunkie]

Thanks! It was honestly meant to be watched in sections and come back for reference. So if you watched it straight that means I did my job well haha. Thank you. My first like this was for the huge pc engine shooter library. And it did so well I had to make another. I’m enjoying these so you can expect more like it.

[@colinthies3178]

Man, I want a Thunder Force collection SO BAD! Also, nice idea putting little faces next to your rating for each game. It makes it much clearer what being "A Tier" or "C Tier" means for you and does a better job summing up your feelings than just the letter would alone.

[@ShmupJunkie]

Thanks. I thought using those old Gamepro faces from the magazine reviews would be a fun touch. And a lot of people did recognize them and comment on that. It would be cool to have a complete TF collection yeah, but will see if that ever happens. I'm stoked M2 did such a great release for TF4 for Sega Ages though, with those upgrades and even a no slowdown option. A definitive way to play an already sick game.

[@colinthies3178]

@@ShmupJunkie Yes, that Sega Ages version is mega 👌 👌 👌.

[@jotaro21]

Great vid, once again, thank you. Picked up the switch port of Gleylancer while watching the premiere, had no idea it had been ported. Now to fit it in with my current addiction to Saidaioujou and Mushi Futari after finally finding excellent condition 360 copies for a sensible price.

[@ShmupJunkie]

Yes! Both Gleylancer and Gynoug got recent solid Switch ports. I've been wondering which game they may do next as those were both good choices.

[@brazilmugenteam]

The intro song just slaps! One of the best mega drive songs ever made

[@ByGeorge846]

Dude this is amazing. Good work.

[@saudnaajihadam]

My go to channel for shumps!!! This is epic work and hats off for your time. Description time stamp was a nice bonus. 👍

[@flyingfly6744]

Your done a tremendous job. To present the complete MD shmup library is an Herculean task. Amazing !

[@camarguess6456]

This is one heck of a video SJ, well done! Worth the wait for dang sure! Thank you!

[@simonbrookes2348]

Ah man been looking forward to this for weeks.. Shump Junkie is my favourite channel, along with Sega Lord x. I'M READY ...

[@ShmupJunkie]

Thanks! I’m excited to finally release it on Sunday. I would only be so lucky to have as big a following as Sega Lord X. That’d mean shmups are not so niche anymore haha.

[@Godsgood111]

Sega lord x is constantly cranking out content, and he just did an amazing Collab with Gamesack. I'm praying we'll be blessed with a shmup junkie / Gamesack Collab on modern shooters some day.

[@ShmupJunkie]

@@Godsgood111 You know I’d never turn down a collab with Joe. Likely too small time for him but maybe someday. His channel is a classic

[@Godsgood111]

@@ShmupJunkie Gamesack has been my favorite show for years, till I found you a few months ago. Within that short time, you've quickly became my other favorite show. It speaks to the dense quality of your content, that oozes with passion. Size isn't measured in sub count, but in soul, and you are a waking giant. I will continue to drop hints on his channel till my dream is realized. Thanks again for your service the genre.

[@unlimitedretrogaming]

Mega congrats on this fantastic video and review!! It took me 3 sittings to complete it and had to repeat some interesting parts that were totally new to me. You just made me realize I am several US$ away from having the games I would love to so I guess the Everdrive is the only option atm LOL....joking aside, great review once again and I am glad to confirm that I have shmups for the MD that go from the S+ ranking to F ✌

[@arrowviper8882]

Finally watched the whole thing! Loved every minute of it but especially those games than aren't the typical shmups, since I'm not as familiar with those. Like Atomic runner, which I ordered right away. Looks really fun! Thanks for another great and awesome videos. The only thing that could make the video even better, if you plan on making more like this -Saturn perhaps :) - is some small segments spread out across the video where you could comment on the games so far or something like that. Thanks for another great and awesome video!

[@ShmupJunkie]

You're welcome and enjoy Atomic Runner. The controls take getting used to at first but don't get discouraged. Once you get the hang of it the game becomes super fun. Thanks for the feedback as well. I'm always looking to change things up a bit with the video series and improve it, try something fresh etc. So I am always taking all ideas into account. The next one will likely be a little different than what came before.

[@chev9632]

A magnificent work, what impresses me the most in this video is how you manage to attack all the games in-depth. The masterpice video.

[@jessragan6714]

Also, this video is distressingly good. I usually duck out of KZbin videos after twenty minutes, but despite this being three hours long, I just can't pull myself away! Excellent, comprehensive commentary, strong production values... this is probably your magnum opus.

[@heilong79]

Atomic Runner, Sol Dease, Darwin, Wings of Wor, Hellfire and Thunderforce 4 are my fav shooters.

[@yousefslimani99]

To be honest this is the best video I've ever enjoyed on your channel and I keep revisiting it over and over again cause how amazing this video is, I really love your contents SJ keep up the good work 👍

[@ShmupJunkie]

Thanks my friend and I’m always happy to hear I can provide content that brings so much entertainment to everyone. I’m sure you’ll love the Every Saturn shooter video I make too. It’ll take time it’s a ton of work but hopefully in the near future.

[@yousefslimani99]

@@ShmupJunkie Yeah I can't wait for the video you were trying to making it for me I mean for us, It will be a pretty straightforward video and I'll tell you that

[@mikaelandersson1288]

@@ShmupJunkie Will you check out the re-release of Cotton Rainbow?

[@freet7354]

Epic video! Just got a complete and nice copy of Aero Blasters for the Mega Drive. Incredible that you rate it so high. Its really worth playing the Mega Drive Shooters on hard difficulty. A lot of times they are more fun through the challenge. Daisenpuu/Twin Hawk (which is one of my hidden gems when playing for high score) and Same Same Same (Fire Shark) and Musha ALESTE inherit that especially the NTSC versions are highly recommended. I already know I will watch that video again as a reliable reference by an expert.

[@Oxbow33wastaken]

Your videos are really good at recreating that "walk into a game store & pick up something that looks cool, but you know nothing about" vibe I remember experiencing when I was younger! Thanks so much for making this guide :)

[@ShmupJunkie]

You're welcome. And I know what you mean. We didn't always have much to go on unless we knew it from magazines. Being limited to buying games once every handful of months, had to be very selective. Thank god for rentals that came down the pike. Only way I could have played so many.

[@francescosmith7859]

Someone else likes SubTerrania!!! I didn’t expect to see it discussed here but was pleasantly surprised to see your review and to find another person who appreciates its style.

[@lyrand6408]

Must have taken you a lot of time to put all of this together; great editing, great video. Amazing work, keep rocking!

[@SteveNorman]

Beautiful work as always. I really enjoyed that, and finally I’ve found someone else that feels the same way as me about the Mega Drive version of Xenon 2, one of my Amiga and Atari ST favourites!

[@tobjord]

I loved Xenon 2 on Amiga. It was highly praised in VG_Magazines. Cant believe they messed it up. But the criticism from shmup junkie applies to the amiga, st or dos version (PC Speaker Sound) too. The Mecanics are the same.... Maybe he doesnt like "euro" shmups

[@SteveNorman]

@@tobjord I just think it’s a poorly executed port. Lazily presented and a load of glitches. The Amiga and ST versions of the first game were probably the first arcade at home experiences, but this one was a whole other level that somehow ended up average on Mega Drive. Maybe all an acquired taste today though, as you say!

[@Tyrandomdom]

I already know that will be another masterpiece video. Shmup junkie, mega drive and shooters what can we ask more? Thanks for your effort, from Italy

[@ShmupJunkie]

You're welcome! And I can't wait for everyone to finally see it all complete.

[@GeoffreySinkeler1973]

Finally finished your massive video. This and so many other of your video's should be preserved for future shmup generations. Well done and keep up the good work!

[@ShmupJunkie]

Thank you I'm really glad you enjoyed it. Massive indeed and I do hope it can be used as a reference for a long time. And thank you so much for the donation/support it's very much appreciated. I love making these and I'll definitely be making more.

[@nvc.]

Thunder force IV is my favourite game ever made. Its epic!

[@lucasreis2943]

🎉🎉

[@markcollins2704]

That intro music just immediately sets the stage

[@robojokes2274]

And it is the best one on the system. By far. Idiotic list.

[@volvoguy804]

Awesome work! Added many to my backlog of games to complete. This seriously should be archived in the LOC.

[@GustlikRGZ]

Excellent work making another great video! A must-watch for every shmup enthusiast. Btw I just knew that before watching this video that Thunder Force IV is going to get an S+ (a well deserved one imho).

[@ShmupJunkie]

I think if it got anything less than an S there would be a riot lol. But it honestly deserves it, it's an incredible game.

[@powerplayerpaul7461]

Incredible work on putting this list of titles together! I loved every minute but my ears especially perked up when Thunder Force was mentioned. Thunder Force 4 was THE game that got me into shmups and am forever indebted to it. I even used the theme “Stand Against Myself” as my entrance music at my wedding complete with sunglasses.

[@ShmupJunkie]

Hahaha now that's a cool story, thanks for sharing that. First I heard of someone using some TF music at their wedding. That's kind of how I am with Blazing Lazers being the early game that got me into playing the genre even more than I already did occasionally back then. Really glad you enjoyed the vid. It's easy to make a kick ass vid when there are so many kick ass games.

[@Nulak]

Godlike video, i just finished Lord of Thunder because of it. For a shmups noob like me, it's perfect and the music .... perfect. Thx!

[@UncaJohnny]

Awesome video SJ! Definitely worth the wait and a must for everyone who is interested in seeing which shoot 'em ups are worth playing and/or buying. I hope the YT problems during the premiere don't bum you out because it's a blast watching and chatting with like minded people during these events. Looking forward to the eventual all SNES shmups reviewed and ranked video.

[@ShmupJunkie]

Thanks man! Yeah it's a bummer when it happens and I am getting the impression it's a problem for YT with longer premieres. As the same thing started happening during the PC Engine video too only less so. It was still minor enough that I won't avoid it as I love doing these premiers for the super long compilations like this. And I think a lot of people enjoy it too. It only worries me that it could be a lot worse too and really ruin it, which luckily it didn't this time until the very end. I would enjoy doing the SNES video as it's a lower quantity but still a heck of a lot of very good games I'll enjoy showing. Konami went to town for Nintendo that's for sure.

[@UncaJohnny]

@@ShmupJunkie, Konami were definitely masters of their craft in the 16 bit era and it seemed that everything they did, regardless of genre, turned to gold. They were no slouches in the 8 bit generation either. Thinking of all the fun times I had with their games back in the day makes me smile from ear to ear.

[@saddemon3913]

Gadget Twins made for those who wanna teach their kids the reality can look cute, but at the same time it can stab you with a knife easally 😂

[@MURD3RWAVE]

I played this and the PC engine vid about 2 times a day at work. And for the last 2 weeks. I loves the reviews so much I pay attention to what letter you are on just because I know what games are going to be talked about. I lisen while I work. I've became such a fan that all my ringtones are from the PCE Tatsujin. The 16 bit console STGs was truly a era. The soundtracks and I can appreciate what tricks the devs did for their time. I never heard of Tatsujin but that's all I've been playing. Excellent work. So many people are going back to play the classics because vids like this. I have a PS5 and have not touched it in over a month because I'm so obsessed with playing games that I missed out on.

[@ShmupJunkie]

Well first off thank you so much for playing them so often and really helping the videos perform well and do bigger numbers. It helps a lot to grow the channel and videos. And I’m glad you’re getting so much out of them. I’ll say there’s a few games I’d go back and slightly adjust the score but overall I’m pretty happy with how it all came out. I’m like you and listen to a lot of my favorite game music randomly and while driving. It just fires me up to play the games again!

[@13amproduction]

Looks like it's going to be another lit Shmup Junkie Sunday!

[@miltiadiskoutsokeras9189]

This is a huge milestone in Videogames and KZbin history. Eyewatering quality, only makes me want an episode on the next system.

[@ShmupJunkie]

You can bet I'll be making more as so far people are really enjoying them. You probably already saw the first one I did with the 100+ shooters on PC Engine. That one started it all. I'm thinking SNES next, or possibly a Saturn vs PSX shootout. That would be fun.

[@angelodonte]

Can't wait to discover some obscure game! Thanks for the video, I can only imagine the amount of hours you put into this!

[@ShmupJunkie]

Guaranteed you'll find some cool new games in the video to check out. I don't even want to think about the hours I put into it haha, too many. That's why it took well over a month. But it'll have been worth it! I hope....

[@Alianger]

In emulation you can play Soulstar in its asymmetric 2-player mode, then map all the buttons as you want on a single controller for better controls in the free-roaming segments. Awesome marathon vid yet again!

[@oortcloud210]

All hail Thunderforce IV!

[@alexloula]

I love your channel, thanks a lot for putting this together. Amazing work!!!

[@shmupdb]

Incredible video thank you for your amazing content!

[@ShmupJunkie]

You're welcome! And thank you for the support and helping get the word out on the video via Twitter etc. Always helpful and much appreciated.

[@nnermann]

Can’t wait to watch this! I regularly go back and watch the Pc-engine one. Looking forward to this and more in the series. Love that you compare the games to the arcade and other console versions so I can find the one that suits me best :)

[@ShmupJunkie]

I don't know where you find the time with how long they are, but I am very glad you do. As I loved putting it together and I really enjoyed this one as well. I would have loved to include even more comparisons but have to keep each segment short enough. It's a really challenge fitting it all in.

[@CubamusPrime]

Wished Konami made a new Gradius on the Megadrive back in the day. But my favorite shoot them up on the Genesis is GAIARES

[@ShmupJunkie]

Gaiares is about as close to Gradius as one could get without being Gradius and kicks ass. One of my all time horizontal favs.

[@CubamusPrime]

@@ShmupJunkie but imagine if Konami made one for it. Or maybe a Parodius. Would of been amazing.

[@HoopleBogart]

Just made an entire folder with RA compatible games from your list. Nice moves man.

[@gillianseed4419]

i think one of the reasons koshiro had such good music on the megadrive is that he programmed his own instruments as opposed to using the ones provided by sega but its not just that

[@ShmupJunkie]

Dude is a musical genius. It all seems less impressive now with all the tools available. But back then it took more than just musical talent to make various types of hardware sound their best.