Play Koutetsu Yousai Strahl Online

Koutetsu Yousai Strahl is a 1993 arcade game from Taito Corporation. It came out during a time when side scrolling shooters and mech games were common in arcades, but this one had a particular focus on weight and deliberate movement. You don't zip around the screen; you feel the bulk of your machine in every action.

You control a slow, heavily armed fortress mech, navigating through side scrolling stages filled with enemy vehicles and installations. Your main objective is simply to survive the onslaught and reach the end of each stage. The game's signature mechanics involve managing two different weapon systems, a standard cannon and slower homing missiles that require a precious moment to lock on to targets. The pacing is methodical, almost sluggish, forcing you to plan your attacks and movements carefully against a relentless enemy force. Every successful hit feels earned because the margin for error is so small, and the screen is often crowded with threats. It feels like piloting a stubborn, powerful beast through a warzone where every victory is a hard fought relief.