Games developed by Irem Corp.
We provide a list of companies that developed abandonware games.
Select a company to view its games.
To make searching easier, use pagination by number or letter.
10-Yard Fight
Released in 1986, 10-Yard Fight is a noteworthy addition to the MSX gaming catalog, standing out as one of the earliest sports titles for this home computer system. Developed by Konami, this game introduces players to a blend of fast-paced action, strategic gameplay, and a captivating football theme, all encapsulated in a charming pixelated aesthetic. The challenge? Navigate your team down the field while outmaneuvering rivals in a classic American football format.
The game offers a unique take on football, simplifying its rules and mechanics for a more arcade-like experience. Players can select different offensive and defensive formations, allowing for a strategic approach to each match. While it may lack the realism found in later sports simulations, 10-Yard Fight compensates with its engaging gameplay and entertaining competitive elements. The thrill of completing successful passes, executing strategic runs, and tackling opponents contributes to an exhilarating atmosphere that encapsulates the spirit of sports competition.
One of the standout features is the two-player mode, allowing friends to compete against each other. This aspect enhances the game's replayability, as players engage in spirited matches that can lead to friendly rivalries. The localized multiplayer experience fosters camaraderie and excitement, making each touchdown and interception feel even more gratifying. In a time when gaming was often a solitary activity, the ability to engage with a friend significantly increased the game's appeal.
Visually, 10-Yard Fight employs a vibrant color palette and well-designed sprites, which were impressive given the hardware limitations of the MSX platform. The charm of the graphics lies not only in its nostalgic charm but also in how effectively it conveys the sport's exhilarating nature. Each character is easily identifiable, and the animations, though simple, effectively communicate the action on the field, drawing players into an immersive football universe.
Moreover, the sound design complements the gameplay perfectly. From the rhythmic beeping of the scoreboard to the exhilarating sound effects of scoring a touchdown, the audio elements elevate the gameplay experience. They provide an engaging backdrop that enhances every in-game moment, making players feel the adrenaline of every successful play.
Air Assault
Arcade games have been a source of immense entertainment for gamers since the 1970s, and one such game that gained popularity in the early 1990s was Air Assault. Developed and released in 1993 by Sega, Air Assault was an action-packed arcade game that captivated players with its intense gameplay and graphics.
The game was set in a futuristic world where players took on the role of a skilled pilot tasked with defending the Earth from an alien invasion. With its vibrant and colorful graphics, Air Assault immediately caught the attention of players as they entered the arcade. The detailed background and enemy spacecrafts added a sense of depth to the game, immersing players in a thrilling atmosphere.
What made Air Assault stand out from other arcade games of its time was its unique flight controls. Unlike traditional shooting games where players could move their character in any direction, Air Assault's controls were solely focused on aerial movement. Players had to master the use of the joystick and buttons to maneuver their aircraft, adding a challenging aspect to the gameplay.
The game featured sixteen levels, each with a different objective and increasing difficulty. As players progressed through the levels, they encountered a wide variety of enemies, including massive boss battles that required quick reflexes and precise aiming to defeat. The game also offered a two-player mode, allowing friends to team up and take down the alien forces together.
One of the most impressive features of Air Assault was its array of power-ups. These power-ups included weapons upgrades, shields, and even a temporary invincible mode, making players feel like they were in control of the battlefield. The game also had a high score system, encouraging players to compete with one another and aim for the top spot on the leaderboard.
Air Assault was not only a hit in arcades but also received positive reviews from critics. The game's fast-paced gameplay, stunning graphics, and immersive sound effects were praised, making it a fan favorite among gamers worldwide. It also inspired other developers to create similar aerial combat games, leaving a lasting impact on the arcade game industry.
Air Duel
Arcade games have always been a massive part of the gaming industry, captivating players with their engaging gameplay and immersive graphics. In the year 1990, a new game hit the arcades and took the gaming world by storm – Air Duel. Developed and released by Irem Corporation, Air Duel became an instant classic and left a lasting impact on the gaming community.
Set in a futuristic world, Air Duel is a fast-paced, side-scrolling shoot 'em up game. The game follows the story of two pilots, Masato and Iwatani, who are entrusted with the task of defending the Earth from an alien invasion. The game features both single player and local co-op modes, allowing players to team up and take on the alien threat together.
One of the most striking features of Air Duel is its stunning graphics and sound design. The game incorporates a mix of 2D and 3D elements, creating a visually dynamic world that keeps players on the edge of their seats. The detailed and intricate background designs coupled with the fluid animation of the player's aircraft make for a truly exhilarating gaming experience. The game's soundtrack is equally impressive, with a mix of adrenaline-pumping tracks and somber melodies that perfectly capture the game's futuristic setting.
The gameplay of Air Duel is both challenging and addictive. Players take control of their aircraft and must navigate through a variety of obstacles while simultaneously shooting down enemy ships. The game features a wide selection of power-ups and weapons, including the iconic "option" ship that can provide the players with a much-needed advantage during intense battles. The game also boasts a variety of boss fights that add an extra layer of excitement and difficulty to the game.
Air Duel received widespread acclaim for its innovative gameplay and immersive design. Its popularity led to its release on various gaming platforms, including the Sega Genesis and the PlayStation network. The game's success also paved the way for the development of a sequel, simply titled Air Duel II, in 1993. The sequel built upon the foundations of its predecessor, adding new levels, power-ups, and challenges, further cementing Air Duel's status as a beloved arcade classic.
Atomic Punk
Atomic Punk is an exhilarating and action-packed arcade game that was released in 1991. Developed by Interplay Productions, this game captured the hearts and minds of gamers all around the world with its unique concept and thrilling gameplay. It was initially released exclusively for the Nintendo Game Boy, but later on, it was also made available for the Game Boy Advance and Nintendo Switch.
The game is set in a post-apocalyptic world where the player takes on the role of a young punk who must navigate through a dangerous city filled with mutants, robots, and other enemies. With its colorful and vibrant graphics, Atomic Punk perfectly captures the essence of the '90s arcade era. The gameplay is fast-paced and challenging, keeping players on the edge of their seats as they make their way through the various levels.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this game is its power-up system. Throughout the game, players can collect power-ups that will enhance their character's abilities. These range from weapons upgrades to temporary invincibility, adding an extra layer of excitement to the gameplay. Additionally, players can also find hidden bonus stages that offer even more challenging obstacles and rewards.
The soundtrack of Atomic Punk is another noteworthy aspect. The game features an upbeat and energetic soundtrack that perfectly complements the intense and fast-paced gameplay. It adds to the overall experience and keeps players engaged and immersed in the game.
Another impressive feature of Atomic Punk is its unique level design. Each level in this game is thoughtfully crafted, offering different challenges and obstacles for players to overcome. Additionally, the game also features boss battles that require players to use their strategic skills to defeat them.
Atomic Punk received critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising its gameplay, graphics, and overall concept. It was considered to be a groundbreaking game that pushed the boundaries of the arcade genre. It also gained a cult following and became a favorite among retro gaming enthusiasts.
Battle Chopper
In the late 1980s, a pioneering video game captured the attention of gamers around the globe. Released in 1989 for the Commodore Amiga, "Battle Chopper" was a groundbreaking helicopter simulation game that set a new standard for gameplay and graphics.
Developed by Blue Byte Software, "Battle Chopper" was a fast-paced action game that put players in control of a heavily armed attack helicopter. The game's objective was to complete various missions, from reconnaissance to full scale battles, in order to progress through levels and ultimately become the top pilot.
One of the most striking features of "Battle Chopper" was its advanced graphics. The game utilized the Amiga's capabilities to its fullest, delivering stunning 3D environments that were ahead of its time. Players were immersed in a colorful and detailed world, from sunny beaches to snow-covered mountains, all while battling enemy forces.
But "Battle Chopper" didn't just impress with its graphics, it also offered an incredibly realistic flight experience. Piloting the helicopter required precision and skill, as players needed to master complex controls to navigate through missions. The game's realistic physics made flying the helicopter feel incredibly authentic, adding an extra layer of immersion to the gameplay.
What also set "Battle Chopper" apart was its diverse set of missions. Players were not limited to just shooting down enemies, but also had to master tasks such as targeting specific locations or protecting crucial assets. This variety added a strategic element to the game, making it more than just a shoot 'em up style game.
Thanks to its innovative gameplay and stunning graphics, "Battle Chopper" received critical acclaim upon its release. The game was praised for its realism, challenging gameplay, and engaging storyline. It quickly gained a cult following among gamers and remains a beloved classic among retro gaming enthusiasts to this day.
Blade Master
Blade Master, also known as Blade Master: Battle for Darkness, is a classic arcade game that was released in 1991 by Irem Corporation. This action-packed side-scrolling game was a hit among gamers and critics alike due to its intense gameplay and unique storyline.
Set in a medieval fantasy world, Blade Master follows the story of a warrior named Kane, who is on a quest to defeat the evil Lord and his army of demons. Armed with his trusty sword and magical powers, Kane must traverse through various levels, facing countless enemies and obstacles along the way.
One of the most striking features of Blade Master was its stunning graphics and animation. The game's detailed backgrounds and character designs were ahead of its time, adding to the overall immersive experience. The animations were smooth and fluid, and the game's color palette perfectly captured the dark and mystical atmosphere of the game.
What made Blade Master stand out among other arcade games of its time was its innovative gameplay. The controls were simple yet effective, allowing players to execute deadly combos and magical attacks with ease. The game also had a unique energy bar system, where players could collect power-ups to replenish their health and energy, making it less reliant on traditional life points.
In addition to its captivating gameplay and graphics, Blade Master also had a memorable soundtrack. Composed by Masahiko Ishida and Takushi Hiyamuta, the game's music perfectly complemented the fast-paced action while adding to the overall intensity and mood of the game.
Blade Master was a commercial success, not only in arcades but also on home gaming consoles. The game's popularity led to multiple sequels, with each one improving upon the previous game's features and introducing new ones. However, despite its success, Blade Master is often considered an underrated gem in the arcade gaming industry.
To this day, Blade Master continues to have a devoted fan base, with many praising its unique gameplay and immersive storyline. The game's influence can also be seen in modern action-adventure games, making it a timeless classic that will always hold a special place in the hearts of gamers.
Cosmic Cop
Cosmic Cop, released in 1991 by StellarX and distributed by Electro Arcadia, is a vertical-scrolling arcade shooter set in the neon-drenched frontier of the Sigma Sector. Players assume the role of a space-law enforcer, piloting the Nebula Interceptor, a compact patrol craft designed for pursuit and apprehension of criminals who plague star lanes and orbital stations. Across warp-lit routes you weave through asteroid belts, debris fields, and rotating orbitals as you chase fugitives through a cosmos of bright exhaust and flashing city-spires.
Gameplay unfolds on a tall, scrolling playfield where the Nebula Interceptor is propelled by inertial thrusters and kept centered by the action. The primary fire streams a steady laser that can be upgraded through power-ups to a Spread Shot or a Charged Beam as score increases. A second button deploys an Arrest Net, briefly ensnaring nearby targets and yielding extra prize points when a capture is completed. Shields flicker, and a limited hyper-boost allows brief bursts through dense salvoes. A score multiplier climbs with each consecutive enemy destroyed, rewarding aggressive, accurate play without sacrificing defensive positioning.
Visuals present a crisp, high-contrast presentation typical of late-era arcades. Sprite-based craft and enemy designs glow against layered parallax backgrounds—deep purples and electric blues melding with magenta nebulae and gold-tinted starfields. Interceptor hulls shimmer with animated highlights, and weapon effects bloom into bright laser jets and explosive debris. Boss encounters arrive with dramatic entrances, unleashing multi-phase attack patterns that demand pattern recognition, precise dodging, and quick counter-strikes before the vessel retreats to a recoverable phase.
The auditory presentation leans on a synthesized, techno-inspired score that shifts tempo with the tide of combat. Pulsing basslines, rapid arpeggios, and snappy percussion drive the action while laser bursts, shield activations, and explosions provide tactile feedback through the cabinet speakers. Digitized voice cues announce targets and captures, reinforcing the enforcement motif without overwhelming the music or the gameplay flow.
Cosmic Cop emphasizes tight controls and strategic use of the Arrest Net in tandem with continuous movement and firing. Difficulty escalates through faster scrolling, denser enemy formations, and more demanding boss sequences, ensuring a steady progression of challenge. Two players can join in simultaneously, sharing power-ups and competing for high scores as they defend sector after sector from criminal incursions and destabilizing plots. The experience delivers a balanced blend of action, timing, and law-and-order duty as crews engage in the final confrontations across the star-speckled void.
Dragon Breed
Released in 1990, Dragon Breed stands as a noteworthy entry in the pantheon of the Commodore 64 gaming landscape. Developed by the French company B.C. Soft and later ported to various platforms, this title melded the exhilarating elements of side-scrolling shooters with unique aspects of platforming gameplay. Players found themselves transfixed by its enchanting graphics, engaging mechanics, and captivating soundtracks, which together created a mesmerizing tapestry of fantasy that was both alluring and addictive.
At the heart of Dragon Breed lies an intriguing premise that marries traditional fantasy motifs with innovative gameplay. Players take on the role of a heroic knight on a quest to reclaim his stolen dragon egg and save the kingdom from the oppressive reign of dark forces. The narrative unfolds against the backdrop of a vibrant, pixelated world, filled with mythical beasts and labyrinthine levels. Each stage introduces players to an array of challenges, from treacherous terrain to formidable enemies, all of which require quick reflexes and strategic thinking. One of the standout features of the game is the ability to ride a dragon, adding a layer of complexity to the battles against familiar adversaries like ogres and trolls.
Dragon Breed's graphics were nothing short of stunning for its time. The lush landscapes, intricately designed sprites, and cinematic cutscenes contributed to a visual feast that was impressive even by contemporary standards. Each stage is characterized by its own distinct themes – ranging from eerie forests to haunted castles – lending a diverse aesthetic that captivated players' imaginations. Moreover, the scrolling backgrounds added depth to the environments, inviting players to explore every nook and cranny while piecing together the storyline's underlying mystery.
Mechanically, the game equipped players with an array of formidable weapons and spells at their disposal, allowing for varied strategies in combat. The knight could wield swords, and hurl projectiles, while the dragon provided aerial support through fire-breathing attacks. Players learned to balance their attacks with defensive maneuvers, maintaining a fluid combat experience that demanded skill. The ability to launch fireballs from the dragon atop the knight transformed the game into a mesmerizing ballet of destruction, adding layers of excitement to encounters with adversaries.
The aural experience in Dragon Breed is equally compelling, as the soundtrack brilliantly complements the action unfolding on screen. Composed by talented artists of the era, the music captures the essence of an epic fantasy adventure, heightening the tension during critical moments and evoking a sense of nostalgia for seasoned players. Sound effects, ranging from the roar of the dragon to the clashing of weapons, provided a sensory richness that elevated gameplay into an immersive experience.
Ultimately, Dragon Breed is a remarkable testament to the creativity that characterized the early era of video games. While perhaps overshadowed by more iconic titles of the period, its unique blend of genres, enchanting aesthetics, and engaging gameplay ensure it retains a fond place in the memories of those who experienced its magic. For both newcomers and veterans of the Commodore 64, embarking on the knight’s adventure in Dragon Breed remains an indelible journey worth revisiting, a celebration of the golden age of gaming filled with wonder and nostalgia.
Gun Force II
Arcade games have always been a beloved form of entertainment, providing hours of fun for people of all ages. One game that stands out from the rest is Gun Force II, released in 1994 by Irem Corporation. This action-packed side-scrolling shooter game quickly gained popularity due to its intense gameplay, stunning graphics, and challenging missions.
The game is set in the year 201 the world is under threat from an evil organization known as the "Black Baltan" who is determined to take over the world. Players take on the role of a brave soldier, equipped with an array of powerful weapons, to defeat the enemy forces and restore peace to the world. The game is divided into six stages, each one more difficult than the last, making it a thrilling experience for players.
One of the most notable features of Gun Force II is its stunning graphics. The game utilizes colorful 2D graphics, bringing the high-tech world to life. The details in the game, such as explosions, moving backgrounds, and intricate character designs, are truly impressive, even by today's standards. This level of detail adds to the immersive experience of the game, making it much more than just a simple shooting game.
In addition to its impressive graphics, Gun Force II also offers a variety of weapons for players to choose from. Each weapon has its unique abilities, and players can switch between them to suit different situations. From machine guns to rockets, players can unleash a barrage of firepower on their enemies, making for an exciting gameplay experience. Moreover, players can also collect power-ups throughout the game, enhancing their weapons and abilities even further.
The game also stands out for its challenging gameplay. The levels are designed to test players' skills, with increasing difficulty as the game progresses. Players must navigate through enemy fire, dodge obstacles and defeat bosses to advance to the next level. With limited lives and continues, players must strategize and make every shot count, adding an element of intensity to the gameplay.
Gun Force II was also known for its fantastic multiplayer mode. Friends could team up and take on the game together, making it a perfect game for arcades. The multiplayer mode adds a whole new level of excitement and replay value to the game, making it a must-play for anyone looking for a fun time at the arcade.
