Arkanoid Returns is a block-breaking arcade action game released by Taito in 1997. Serving as a true sequel to the classic Arkanoid series, it brings the familiar paddle-and-ball gameplay into the late 90s with vibrant 2D sprites, fresh stage layouts, and new mechanics. Players once again control the Vaus spacecraft, bouncing the energy ball to clear out colored bricks while avoiding falling enemies and catching advantageous power-ups to survive.
How to Play
The objective is to clear every destructible block on the screen to advance to the next stage. Missing the ball costs a life.
- Insert Coin: Shift
- Start: Enter
- Move Paddle (Vaus): Left / Right Arrow Keys
- Fire Laser / Release Ball: Z
Tips
- Prioritize Power-Ups: Catching the blue ‘C’ (Catch) capsule lets you hold the ball and plan your next shot, which is essential for aiming at hard-to-reach blocks.
- Control the Speed: The ball speeds up the longer it stays in play. Catch an orange ‘S’ (Slow) capsule to reduce its speed and regain control of the board.
- Watch the Edges: Rebounds off the far left or right edges of the paddle send the ball at sharp angles. Use this to snake the ball into narrow gaps behind block formations.

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