Play Curse (Japan) Online

Game Overview

Curse is one of those weird, forgotten Mega Drive shooters that never made it out of Japan—which is a shame, because it’s got this grimy, gothic vibe that stands out from the usual space battles. You’re piloting this chunky ship through sideways-scrolling levels filled with floating skulls, creepy hands, and these weird organic-looking bosses that seem half-alive. The controls are stiff in that classic early Genesis way, but once you get used to it, there’s something satisfying about blasting through the waves of enemies.

It’s not the most polished shooter out there—some of the hitboxes feel unfair, and the power-up system is kind of basic—but the atmosphere is great. The music’s got this eerie, synth-heavy tone that fits the cursed theme perfectly. If you’re into obscure 16-bit shooters, it’s worth a look just for the aesthetic alone.