Released by Jaleco in 1984, Formation Z is a side-scrolling action shooter for the NES. Players pilot the IXP-07, a versatile mecha that can transform on the fly between a grounded walking robot and a high-speed jet fighter. Surviving the campaign requires balancing these two modes to navigate varied terrain while fending off constant waves of enemy forces from land and air.
How to play
Your objective is to reach the end of each stage before running out of fuel or being overwhelmed by enemy fire. You can transform into a jet to fly over gaps and water, but flying consumes fuel rapidly. Use the arrow keys to move, Z to shoot, and X to jump or take flight. Press Enter to start and Shift for select.
Tips
- Stay in robot form whenever possible to conserve your limited energy for mandatory flight sections like crossing the ocean.
- Hold the fire button to charge a more powerful, piercing shot capable of taking out tougher enemies.
- Watch the fuel gauge closely while in jet form and prioritize collecting any fuel pickups you see.
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