Gunhed (1989). Play Free Online

Summary

Gunhed, released as Blazing Lazers on the TurboGrafx-16, showcases Hudson Soft and Compile’s flair for intense vertical shooters. The game’s lightning‑fast scrolling, five‑speed ship toggle, and a sprawling weapon palette—from rapid‑fire upgrades to homing missiles and limited cluster bombs—kept players constantly shifting tactics.

A rarity, the Gunhed Special Version HuCard offered a 2‑minute and a 5‑minute Time Attack, appealing to die‑hard score hunters. After its 1989 debut, the title resurfaced on the Wii Virtual Console (2007), PlayStation Network (2010), and Wii U Virtual Console (2014). Critics praised its crisp graphics, smooth performance, and driving soundtrack, earning high marks such as ACE 90/100, CVG 96%, and IGN 8/10. It remains a celebrated early entry in the TurboGrafx‑16 library.

Storyline

In Gunhed for the TurboGrafx‑16, a fictional galaxy finds itself under siege by the enemy space armada known as the Dark Squadron. The relentless attacks threaten the very survival of countless worlds across the star system.

The galaxy’s sole hope rests on the Gunhed Advanced Star Fighter, a powerful combat craft designed to hunt down the Dark Squadron and destroy its devastating Super Weapons. By taking the fight to the enemy, the Gunhed pilot becomes the last line of defense against total annihilation.

Edited by Maya Carter