tengai

Tengai is a vertical scrolling shooter arcade game developed by Psiko and published by Kaneko in 1996. It is set in a fictionalized ancient Japan where mechanical contraptions and supernatural elements coexist. Players choose from three different characters, each with their own unique ship and weapons, to battle through a series of stages against a variety of enemies and bosses. The gameplay features the typical mechanics of the genre, including shooting, dodging enemy fire, and collecting power-ups to enhance the player's weaponry.

The game is known for its distinctive art style, which combines traditional Japanese aesthetics with a steampunk-inspired mechanical design. The character sprites are detailed, and the backgrounds are often filled with intricate, animated elements. Tengai also features a memorable soundtrack that complements the fast-paced action. Upon its release, the game was praised for its challenging gameplay and impressive visuals, becoming a popular title among shoot 'em up enthusiasts. The game was later ported to the Neo Geo AES home console, allowing players to experience the arcade action on their own systems. Tengai remains a notable entry in the vertical scrolling shooter genre, appreciated for its unique theme and engaging difficulty.