Play Cosmic Epsilon (Japan) [En by Stardust Crusaders v1.0] Online

Cosmic Epsilon is one of those NES games that slipped under the radar—probably because it never left Japan back in the day. But thanks to the Stardust Crusaders translation, you can finally see what the fuss is about. It’s a shooter, yeah, but not just another Gradius clone. The power-ups are weird in the best way—some make your shots spiral, others turn them into bouncing lasers—and figuring out which ones work for you is half the fun.

The first few levels ease you in with chunky pixel aliens and those satisfyingly chimey 8-bit explosions, but don’t get too comfortable. By stage three, the screen’s packed with neon bullets and enemies that swoop in from all angles. It’s got that "one more try" pull, especially when you’re scrambling to reclaim your upgrades after dying (classic NES cruelty). If you’ve got a soft spot for retro shooters with personality, this one’s a trip.