1942

System: NES | Genre: Shooter | Published by: Capcom | Release Date: 1986
In the game 1942 (Buy on eBay), you control a Lockheed P-38 Lightning plane known as “Super Ace.” The game is set during World War II in the Pacific Theater and you must battle your way through enemy Japanese planes to reach Tokyo.

This early vertical scrolling shooter game featured 32 stages of action over land, sea, and air. During game play you can flow over the POW to gain additional power. You can also execute a “Loop the Loop” to avoid heavy enemy fire. The sound effects and music were somewhat primitive, but the concept set the standard for years to come.

The popular game spawned a NES sequel titled “1943” as well as an additional four titles in the 19XX line across later gaming systems.