Definition
After Burner III is a 3‑D rail‑shooter arcade video game developed and published by Sega. It is the third installment in the After Burner series, which focuses on high‑speed aerial combat using jet fighters.
Overview
The game was released in the early 1990s (commonly cited as 1993) for Sega’s Model 2 arcade hardware. Players control a fighter jet using a joystick and a throttle lever, navigating a series of linear levels that simulate aerial dogfights against enemy aircraft and ground targets. The title emphasizes fast‑paced action, featuring afterburner boosts that increase speed and firepower. Visuals are rendered with polygonal 3‑D graphics, marking a technological shift from the sprite‑based graphics of the series’ earlier entries. The cabinet often includes a flight‑simulator style seat with motion feedback, enhancing immersion.
Etymology/Origin
The name “After Burner” derives from the afterburner function on military jet engines, which provides a temporary thrust increase. The suffix “III” designates it as the third major entry in the franchise, following After Burner (1987) and After Burner II (1987).
Characteristics
- Hardware Platform: Sega Model 2 arcade system, supporting real‑time 3‑D polygon rendering.
- Control Scheme: Flight stick for pitch and roll, throttle for speed/afterburner activation, trigger buttons for primary and secondary weapons.
- Gameplay Mechanics: Linear (rail) progression through preset flight paths; timed afterburner usage; power‑up pickups; multiple selectable aircraft with differing performance statistics.
- Graphics and Audio: Polygonal models for aircraft and environments; dynamic lighting effects; soundtrack featuring synthesised rock and engine noises to accentuate the high‑speed combat theme.
- Cabinet Design: Often equipped with a motion‑simulating seat and a cockpit‑style cockpit to simulate the sensations of flight.
Related Topics
- After Burner (original 1987 arcade game)
- After Burner II (1987 arcade sequel)
- Sega Model 2 arcade hardware
- Rail shooter genre
- Other Sega aerial combat titles such as G-LOC: Air Battle
Note: Precise release dates and regional availability may vary across sources; the information presented reflects the most widely reported data.