Shooting games, affectionately referred to as “shmups” (shoot-em-ups) are the classic leftovers from the arcade era of video games. Their traditionally high level of difficulty was originally intended to suck in more money from players, but now they stand as a test to our patience, persistence, and raw reflexive skill. Indeed, shooting games are some of the most intense games in the browser world. If you’re looking for something a little more exciting, go no further than the five best shooting games we’ve collected below. Warning: you’ll probably hurt yourself (or your keyboard) playing these things!

SkyFyre II – A sidescrolling shmup in the classical sense, SkyFyre II is, in many ways, the very definition of a good shooter. It’s got lovely pixel artwork, it’s got swarms and swarms of tough enemies, and it’s got bosses you’ll have to face more than once before you can send them packing. A great game with several classes to choose from, a good adventure-style level layout, and plenty of challenge. Also check out our SkyFyre II strategy guide for more tips and tricks on how to master this game!

Play Now!

The Last Canopy – A brilliant shmup on so many levels, The Last Canopy puts you in a vertically-scrolling world where you play as a fairy trying to save the last tree from swarms of enemies. Not only can you shoot in this fast-paced game, you can also absorb firepower from your enemies, making each one both a threat as well as a source of power. On top of the unique gameplay, The Last Canopy also has excellent controls and a wonderful visual style, making it one of the most well-rounded browser shmups out there.

Play Now!

Boomstick – A shooter in the most basic sense of the word, Boomstick is just you, some enemies, and a nice old shotgun to keep you safe. The bad guys fly by above you, and your job is to move left and right, aim with the mouse, and use your scattershot to hit as many of them as you can. Multi-hits give you bonus points as well as power-ups, and you have to collect fallen ammo from defeated foes in order to stay afloat. Minimalism serves this game very well, and you’ll be surprised at how awesome this game is one you give it a try!

Play Now!

Death vs. Monstars – Not your typical arena shooter by any means, this semi-insane game is as trippy as it is intense. Your character shoots in the opposite direction it moves, forcing you to use the mouse to avoid the enemies you want to destroy. Power-ups are a key part of the game, as is an anger meter and between-level upgrades you get to buy using blood money. It really is a unique sort of experience, and one even non-shmup fans will get hooked on right from the start.

Play Now!

Starcom – Much more than “just” a shooter, Starcom mixes strategy and role playing elements into the mix, crafting a sort of slow-paced experience laced with depth and intrigue. Oh, and a fantastic story! Stationed at a starbase, you must fend off alien attacks using your primary weapon and a few missiles you can arm yourself with later on. The first few missions serve as a tutorial, but then the real game begins, cranking up the action to acceptable shmupping standards!

Play Now!

blog comments powered by Disqus