TriggerHeart EXELICA

Exelica always seems to get forgotten by even the most knowledgeable STG fans... I have no idea why! This is still, after years, my favourite shmup/danmaku shooter! (I even have the Nendoroid haha) While it doesn't look or sound like the absolute best of the best, the grappling mechanic is such a lot of fun, and I think it has quite a bit of depth and replayability. It IS a bit of a memorizer especially when attempting the no-hit run achievement (must be on Normal) but you'll constantly keep getting better at using the Anchor to keep danger away. I think it's just a very well designed and balanced shmup. Also love the character designs! The game itself supports TATE mode, though the main and setting menus will stay landscape. I'm not entirely sure why you'd get Exelica ENHANCED over this one; this one is way cheaper, also includes arrange mode, plays great and is just closest to the arcade original. Plays great on Linux/Proton too. (TIP: You can set Anchor rotation to auto-rotate in the settings! Much easier for arcade/fighting sticks.)