Overview
Seibu Kaihatsu found success with focused, polished execution. The Raiden series didn’t revolutionise shooting—it perfected existing formulas with tight controls, satisfying weapons, and excellent two-player co-op. Their consistent quality made them a reliable name in arcade shooting throughout the 1990s.
Fast facts
- Founded: 1982.
- Location: Japan.
- Known for: Raiden series.
- Closure: 2001.
Raiden series
| Title | Year | Innovation |
|---|
| Raiden | 1990 | Core formula |
| Raiden II | 1993 | Toothpaste laser |
| Raiden DX | 1994 | Enhanced remake |
| Raiden Fighters | 1996 | Spin-off series |
Other notable games
| Title | Year | Genre |
|---|
| Dead Angle | 1988 | Light gun |
| Dynamite Duke | 1989 | Action |
| Legionnaire | 1992 | Beat-em-up |
| Viper Phase 1 | 1995 | Shooter |
Design philosophy
| Principle | Application |
|---|
| Accessibility | Easy to understand |
| Depth | Hard to master |
| Two-player | Cooperative focus |
| Satisfaction | Rewarding feedback |
Technical approach
| Element | Quality |
|---|
| Sprite work | Clean, readable |
| Hit detection | Precise |
| Difficulty curve | Fair escalation |
| Audio | Punchy effects |
Legacy
| Impact | Significance |
|---|
| Raiden template | Widely imitated |
| Vertical shooting | Genre standard |
| Co-op design | Influential |
See also