Shmups: step right up to be shot right down

Shmups have fallen to the wayside in recent years, in part due to the resurgence of their more popular 3D first-person brethren. However, the genre retains a passionate fanbase who appreciate its simplicity, non-existent learning curve and eye to skillful play.

But even among its legion of aficionados, there are several titles which fall under the radar and have simply failed to garner much attention despite their positive qualities. This list will examine 10 shmups which deserve more attention, with an emphasis towards the PC and more recent entries, as well as being open to titles with influences from all over the shooter spectrum.

Without further ado…