the Game Boy version. It was developed and published by KID in Japan and Agetec in North America. It was released in Japan on July 23, 1999, and in North America on August 28, 2000. The game puts the player in the role an infantryman dropped into an alien base that is determined to enslave humanity. There are three different power-ups, and the game allows you to shoot in eight different directions. However, due to the difficulty of switching the direction of fire during the midst of battle, it is regarded to be easier to just shoot in one direction. The three power-ups are considered standard for the genre: a blue bullet, a lighter blue laser, and a pink laser. The game uses a password system to continue progress. Reception Burai Fighter received a mixture of opinions from reviewers on the Nintendo Entertainment System, though a slight majority gave it a positive recommendation. Electronic Gaming Monthlys four reviewers compared it with Section Z, describing it as a cross between Forgotten Worlds and Side Arms. They stated that the power-up build-up system was a welcomed change of pace and praised its frantic action, varied background graphics and smooth scrolling, regarding it as one of the better shooters for NES. VideoGames & Computer Entertainments B.W. felt that its visuals were adequate but did not help to convey an appropriate atmosphere. He commended the smooth scrolling but criticized the amount of flickering when too many enemies are present on-screen, as well as the sound design and lack of replay value after completing the game. Mean Machines Matt Regan and Julian Rignall criticized its presentation and sound, while both critics felt divided in regards to its challenge and difficulty. However, they gave positive remarks to the graphics, playability and longevity, with Rignall regarding it as a welcomed addition to the NES library. Joysticks Sébastien Hamon gave positive commentary in regards to the audiovisual presentation, sprite animations, controls and precise action. Micro News Sylvain Allain commended its graphics and sprite animations but criticized the sound. Player Ones Cyril Drevet praised the animated visuals, sound, varied difficulty, longevity and fun factor. Aktueller Software Markts Michael Suck stated that "Burai Fighter shines with high playability and variable, always surprising gameplay." Suck also gave positive remarks to the graphics but criticized its sound design. Video Games Andreas Knauf noted its high difficulty level, changing view perspectives and technical