FREE RETRO ARCADE SHOOTING GAMES
Relive the golden age of arcade gaming! Play free classic retro shooting games like Metal Slug, Contra, Raiden, Space Invaders, and Galaga online for free in your browser.
Metal Slug
Metal Slug
The classic run and gun arcade game that started it all. Fight your way through enemy soldiers and rescue hostages.
Metal Slug 1st Mission
Metal Slug 1st Mission is a tactical side-scrolling shooter that combines classic Metal Slug gameplay with new strategic elements.
Metal Slug 7
Metal Slug 7 is a continuation of the beloved series, featuring new characters and gameplay mechanics.
Metal Slug X
An enhanced remake of Metal Slug 2 with new enemies and weapons placements.
Contra
Contra
Contra is a challenging 1987 Konami arcade shooter where elite soldiers battle aliens in side-scrolling levels, known for its co-op play and the famous Konami Code.
Contra 3 The Alien Wars
Contra 3: The Alien Wars is a classic run-and-gun game that pits players against waves of alien enemies in a battle to save humanity.
Contra 4
Contra 4 is a fast-paced run-and-gun game that continues the legacy of the Contra series, featuring intense action and cooperative gameplay.
Contra Hard Corps
Contra Hard Corps is a run-and-gun game that continues the Contra legacy with intense action, new characters, and cooperative gameplay.
Space Invaders
Space Invaders
The legendary arcade game that started it all. Defend Earth from rows of descending aliens.
Space Invaders Remake
Space Invaders Remake is a modern take on the classic arcade shooter, featuring updated graphics and new gameplay mechanics while retaining the nostalgic feel of the original.
Space Invaders IO
Your planet is under attack, and you need to defend it! Space Invaders IO is a thrilling single-player version of the classic arcade shooter, where you must fend off waves of alien invaders to protect your home.
Galaxy Space Shooter: Invaders 3D
Galaxy Space Shooter: Invaders 3D is an exhilarating modern remake of the classic Space Invaders, featuring vibrant 3D graphics and engaging gameplay that brings a fresh twist to the beloved arcade classic.
Raiden
Raiden
Raiden is a classic vertical-scrolling space shooter known for its intense combat, diverse weapon systems, and challenging level design.
Raiden 1
The original vertical-scrolling shooter that introduced the iconic Raiden fighter jet.
Raiden II
Raiden II is a classic vertical-scrolling shooter that builds on the original Raiden, featuring enhanced graphics, new enemy types, and intense aerial combat.
Raiden X T40
Raiden X is an old school classic space shooter featuring intense vertical-scrolling action, multiple weapon types, and challenging boss battles.
Galaga
Galaga
Galaga is a classic 1981 arcade space shooter where players control a spaceship to destroy formations of insect-like alien enemies while avoiding their attacks and capture attempts.
Galaga 2
Galaga 2 is an exciting sequel to the classic arcade shooter, introducing new enemy types, enhanced graphics, and innovative gameplay mechanics that elevate the original experience.
Galaga88
Galaga88 is an enhanced sequel in the iconic Galaga series, featuring multiple dimensions, challenging boss encounters, and improved gameplay mechanics while maintaining the addictive shoot-em-up action of the original.
Demons of Death (USA)
Demons of Death is the North American release of Galaga, a classic fixed-shooter arcade game where players battle waves of insect-like alien invaders. This iconic title features precise controls, memorable enemy formations, and addictive gameplay that made it a staple in arcades across America.
WHY PLAY ARCADE SHOOTING GAMES?
CLASSIC GAMEPLAY
These retro shooting games feature the same addictive gameplay that made them arcade legends. Simple controls, challenging enemies, and that "one more try" feeling.
NO DOWNLOADS
All our arcade shooters play directly in your browser. No waiting for downloads, no installations - just instant retro gaming action.
NOSTALGIC EXPERIENCE
Relive the golden era of arcade gaming with these authentic shooting games. The same pixel art, sound effects, and challenging gameplay you remember.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What are retro arcade shooting games?
Retro arcade shooting games are classic video games from the golden era of arcade gaming (late 1970s through the 1990s) that focus on combat using projectile weapons. These games typically feature pixel art graphics, challenging gameplay, and high score systems. Popular examples include Space Invaders, Galaga, Contra, and Metal Slug, which defined the shooting game genre and arcade culture.
Are the shooting games free to play?
Yes! All of our retro arcade shooting games are free to play. You can enjoy these classic titles without any cost, making it easy to dive into the nostalgic world of arcade gaming. Simply select a game from our collection and start playing right away!
Can I play these retro arcade shooting games on mobile devices?
Yes! Our collection of retro arcade shooting games is optimized for both desktop and mobile play. The classic arcade experience has been adapted with touch controls for smartphones and tablets, allowing you to enjoy these nostalgic shooting games anywhere. For the best arcade experience, we recommend playing in landscape mode on mobile devices.
What makes arcade shooting games different from modern shooters?
Classic arcade shooting games differ from modern shooters in several ways: they feature simpler, pixel-based graphics instead of 3D environments; focus on high score achievements rather than story progression; offer more straightforward gameplay mechanics; and typically provide a more challenging experience designed to test player reflexes. These retro arcade shooters were designed during a time when gameplay was prioritized over graphics, creating timeless experiences that remain fun decades later.
Why do people still play retro arcade games today?
Retro arcade shooting games continue to be popular because of their perfect balance of accessibility and challenge. These classic arcade experiences offer immediate fun without lengthy tutorials, while still providing substantial difficulty that keeps players engaged. The pixel art aesthetic has also become timeless, with many modern games intentionally mimicking the retro arcade style. Additionally, these games represent gaming history, allowing new generations to experience the foundations that shaped today's video game industry.
What are the different types of arcade shooting games?
The arcade shooting game genre includes several distinct subgenres: fixed shooters (like Space Invaders) where the player's movement is limited; vertical scrolling shooters (like Raiden) where gameplay scrolls from top to bottom; horizontal scrolling shooters (like Gradius); run and gun shooters (like Metal Slug and Contra) that combine shooting with platforming; and rail shooters that move players along a predetermined path. Each retro arcade shooting subgenre offers unique gameplay mechanics while maintaining the core shooting experience.
Are arcade shooting games good for improving gaming skills?
Absolutely! Retro arcade shooting games are excellent for building fundamental gaming skills. These classic arcade titles help develop hand-eye coordination, pattern recognition, quick decision-making, and precise timing. The challenging nature of these games—often requiring pixel-perfect movement and split-second reactions—creates a perfect training ground for skills that transfer to many modern games. Many professional gamers credit their foundation to hours spent playing these arcade classics.
What made the golden age of arcade shooting games so special?
The golden age of arcade gaming (late 1970s to mid-1980s) was revolutionary because it represented the first time video games became a mainstream cultural phenomenon. Arcade shooting games like Space Invaders and Galaga led this movement, introducing millions to interactive entertainment. These retro arcade cabinets created social spaces where players gathered to compete for high scores, watch others play, and share strategies. The limited technology of the era forced developers to focus on pure gameplay mechanics, resulting in timeless classics that still resonate today.