Strider (1989 arcade game)

Strider, released in 1989, is a side-scrolling action platformer arcade game developed by Capcom. It features the protagonist, Strider Hiryu, a futuristic ninja-like operative tasked with assassinating Grandmaster Meio, a tyrannical dictator ruling over a dystopian Earth.

The gameplay is characterized by Hiryu's acrobatic abilities, including wall climbing, somersaulting, and sliding, as well as his primary weapon, the Cypher, a plasma-generating sword. The game is divided into five stages, each with a distinct environment and enemies, ranging from mechanized soldiers and cybernetic animals to colossal bosses.

Strider is notable for its fluid animation, fast-paced action, and science fiction setting. It was a commercial success and is considered a classic of the arcade era. The game's popularity led to various ports for home consoles, including the Nintendo Entertainment System and Sega Genesis, as well as sequels and appearances in other Capcom games.