Underplayed Gems

DoDonPachi (1997)

DoDonPachi cover
Developer
CAVE Interactive
Publisher
SPS, HAMSTER, Atlus
Platforms
Arcade, PlayStation 3, Sega Saturn, PlayStation, PlayStation Portable
Genres
Shooter, Arcade
Rating
3.6 of 5, 18 player ratings
Where to get it
Website

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The 3D catalog: game boxes on wooden shelves, with the cat sitting at the counter next to its greeting.

The catalog in 3D

The same catalog has a room you can walk around in. The cat behind the counter is the AI Catbot, and they pick real games from it when you tell them what you feel like playing. Nothing is for sale, here or in there. Go in from here and this game is already out on the counter, with more like it waiting on the shelf next to it.

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How it feels

A relentless storm of bullets and explosions that demands pixel-perfect focus and rewards mastery with a secret darker truth beneath the spectacle.

intensepunishingfast-pacedpreciserelentlessmechanizedhigh-stakespattern-based

About

Compared to DonPachi, DoDonPachi is generally known for introducing new gameplay elements while improving or changing existing ones. The overall background of the game, unlike following sequels, remains more or less centered around a supposed invasion by a mysterious race of mechanized aliens, which the player is called to face throughout its run. However, more sinister and shocking secrets lie beneath the surface, accessible only to those brave and skilled enough to clear the entire game.

Screenshots

DoDonPachi screenshot 1DoDonPachi screenshot 2DoDonPachi screenshot 3

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More by CAVE Interactive

This page is from Underplayed Gems, a catalog of older and overlooked games. Not quite it? You can browse by platform and genre, or take this one into the 3D catalog and ask the Catbot for something closer.