Capcom Arcade Cabinet: Complete List of Games

Capcom Arcade Cabinet is a compilation of classic arcade games developed and published by Capcom. Released in 2013 for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, this collection features a variety of iconic titles from Capcom's extensive arcade history. The games were released in waves, with each wave containing a few titles from different eras of Capcom's arcade history. This article will delve into the complete list of games included in the Capcom Arcade Cabinet, providing details on each title, its gameplay, and its significance in gaming history.

Introduction to Capcom Arcade Cabinet

The Capcom Arcade Cabinet was released as a celebration of Capcom's rich arcade legacy. The collection allows players to experience some of the most influential and beloved arcade games from the 1980s and 1990s. The games can be purchased individually or in packs, and each comes with a range of features, including online leaderboards, adjustable difficulty levels, and the option to play in different screen modes to replicate the arcade experience.

Wave 1: February 2013

1. 1943: The Battle of Midway

   • Release Date: 1987
   • Genre: Vertical Scrolling Shooter
   • Gameplay: As a sequel to the classic 1942, this game builds on its predecessor with more refined gameplay mechanics. Players control a P-38 Lightning aircraft and engage in battles against enemy forces. The game introduced a special energy system where players could sacrifice part of their energy to perform special attacks.
   • Significance: 1943 was one of the most popular vertical shooters of its time, known for its fast-paced action and strategic gameplay.

2. Avengers

   • Release Date: 1987
   • Genre: Beat 'em up
   • Gameplay: This beat 'em up game features two heroes, Ryu and Ko, who must rescue six girls from a crime syndicate. The game is known for its overhead view, which was a unique feature for beat 'em ups at the time.
   • Significance: While not as popular as some other titles, Avengers is notable for its early contribution to the beat 'em up genre.

Wave 2: March 2013

1. Ghosts 'n Goblins

   • Release Date: 1985
   • Genre: Platformer
   • Gameplay: This iconic platformer is known for its extreme difficulty. Players control Sir Arthur, a knight who must rescue Princess Prin-Prin from the demon king Astaroth. The game features challenging enemies, tricky platforming, and a memorable armor mechanic where Arthur loses his armor upon taking damage.
   • Significance: Ghosts 'n Goblins is one of Capcom's most famous titles and has spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs.

2. Gun.Smoke

   • Release Date: 1985
   • Genre: Vertical Scrolling Shooter
   • Gameplay: Players control a bounty hunter in the Wild West, taking on various outlaws and bosses. The game features a unique control scheme where the player can shoot in multiple directions independently of movement.
   • Significance: Gun.Smoke is praised for its innovative gameplay and is one of the earliest examples of a Western-themed shooter.

Wave 3: April 2013

1. Commando

   • Release Date: 1985
   • Genre: Run and Gun
   • Gameplay: Players take control of a soldier named Super Joe, who must single-handedly take on waves of enemy soldiers. The game is known for its intense action and strategic use of grenades.
   • Significance: Commando is one of the most influential run-and-gun games, inspiring many future titles in the genre.

2. Section Z

   • Release Date: 1985
   • Genre: Horizontal Scrolling Shooter
   • Gameplay: Players control a space soldier who must navigate through a space station while battling alien forces. The game features multiple paths and branching levels, adding a layer of exploration to the shooter formula.
   • Significance: Section Z is notable for its non-linear gameplay and was one of Capcom's early attempts at more complex game design.

Wave 4: May 2013

1. Side Arms

   • Release Date: 1986
   • Genre: Horizontal Scrolling Shooter
   • Gameplay: Players control a mecha warrior who can shoot in multiple directions. The game features weapon upgrades and a unique two-player mode where both players share the same screen but can control separate mechs.
   • Significance: Side Arms is remembered for its fast-paced action and innovative two-player mode.

2. Legendary Wings

   • Release Date: 1986
   • Genre: Vertical Scrolling Shooter
   • Gameplay: Players take on the role of warriors with mechanical wings who must save the world from an alien invasion. The game combines both vertical scrolling shooter elements and side-scrolling platforming sections.
   • Significance: Legendary Wings stands out for its blend of different gameplay styles and its mythological theme.

Wave 5: June 2013

1. Trojan

   • Release Date: 1986
   • Genre: Action
   • Gameplay: Set in a post-apocalyptic world, players control a warrior who must battle through hordes of enemies using a sword and shield. The game features both side-scrolling action and one-on-one boss battles.
   • Significance: Trojan is notable for its unique setting and the combination of different gameplay elements.

2. Exed Exes

   • Release Date: 1985
   • Genre: Vertical Scrolling Shooter
   • Gameplay: Players control a spaceship and must defeat waves of insect-like enemies. The game is known for its high difficulty and fast-paced action.
   • Significance: Exed Exes is remembered for its challenging gameplay and is a lesser-known gem in Capcom's arcade lineup.

Wave 6: July 2013

1. 1942

   • Release Date: 1984
   • Genre: Vertical Scrolling Shooter
   • Gameplay: This classic shooter has players control a plane during World War II, engaging in dogfights with enemy aircraft. The game introduced the "loop-the-loop" maneuver, allowing players to dodge enemy fire.
   • Significance: 1942 is one of Capcom's most iconic games and laid the foundation for the vertical scrolling shooter genre.

2. SonSon

   • Release Date: 1984
   • Genre: Platformer
   • Gameplay: Players control a character inspired by the Monkey King from Chinese mythology. The game features side-scrolling action with enemies appearing from both sides of the screen.
   • Significance: SonSon is notable for its unique setting and was one of Capcom's early arcade successes.

Wave 7: August 2013

1. Black Tiger

   • Release Date: 1987
   • Genre: Action Platformer
   • Gameplay: Players control a barbarian hero who must rescue princesses and defeat the evil dragon. The game features platforming, combat, and exploration elements, with players collecting coins to purchase upgrades.
   • Significance: Black Tiger is praised for its blend of action and exploration and is considered a classic in the genre.

2. Higemaru

   • Release Date: 1984
   • Genre: Puzzle
   • Gameplay: Players control a sailor who must defeat pirates by throwing barrels at them. The game features a top-down view and is known for its challenging puzzles.
   • Significance: Higemaru is a lesser-known title but is remembered for its unique gameplay mechanics and challenging puzzles.

Conclusion

The Capcom Arcade Cabinet offers a comprehensive look at some of the most influential and beloved games from Capcom's arcade history. From iconic shooters like 1942 and Ghosts 'n Goblins to lesser-known gems like Higemaru and Trojan, the collection provides a nostalgic trip through the golden age of arcade gaming. Each title in the collection has its own unique charm and has contributed to the development of video games as a medium. Whether you're a fan of classic shooters, platformers, or action games, the Capcom Arcade Cabinet has something for everyone.