Salamander 2

The game alternates between side-scrolling and vertically oriented stages, with single-button shooting, charge-style attacks, and bomb-like support weapons. Defeated enemies drop capsules that upgrade speed, main shot, missiles, options, and shields. Stages combine cramped corridors, forced scrolling, and large bullet-heavy boss fights, so recovering after a death can be difficult and requires careful routing.

Vic Viper

The series' signature fighter, built for balanced mobility and reliable firepower.

Lord British

An alternate player ship with its own weapon feel and pacing.

Keep your speed and shot level as high as possible to avoid falling behind the stage pace. In narrow sections, clear turrets and obstacles early to preserve movement space. During boss fights, focus on destroying side weapons or appendages first, then exploit brief openings to deal damage safely.

Tips and tricks

• Learn capsule routes so you can plan your upgrades in advance.
• Do not overextend in forced-scrolling stages; survival matters more than aggression.
• In boss battles, remove bullet-generating parts before focusing on the core.