Moon Cresta Bootleg Set 1 Bootleg is an unofficial 1980 arcade release of the classic vertical shoot ’em up originally developed by Nichibutsu. Like the authentic version, it challenges players to fend off erratic alien swarms using a unique multi-part spaceship. The game stands out from its contemporaries by letting you dock your separate ships together mid-game to combine their offensive capabilities.
How to Play
Your goal is to clear continuous waves of alien enemies that swoop down from the top of the screen. You begin using the small Stage I ship; if it is destroyed, you take control of Stage II, followed by Stage III. After specific waves, you enter a docking sequence where you must carefully align your active ship with the next piece using your thrusters. Successfully docking combines the ships, granting you a wider laser spread.
For arcade controls in the browser, press Shift to insert a coin and Enter to start. Use the Left and Right arrow keys to maneuver your ship, and press Z or X to fire.
Tips
- The larger ship is a massive target: While a fully docked ship provides devastating firepower, it drastically increases your hitbox. Focus on evasive maneuvers when combined, as you have less room for error.
- Patience during docking: In the docking bonus stage, align your ship carefully before descending. Rushing the sequence and crashing into the lower ship will cost you a life.
- Anticipate the swoop: Enemies often break formation and dive in looping arcs. Watch their flight paths and fire preemptively where they are heading, as they are most vulnerable at the bottom of their dive.
Leave a Comment / Review: