Strider (1999)

Released in 1999 for the PlayStation, Strider is Capcom's ambitious revival of the beloved arcade series. Set in a futuristic Soviet Union, it follows Hiryu, the last of the Strider ninja clan, on a mission to dismantle a tyrannical regime. The game reimagines the classic 2D arcade formula with fully 3D environments, cinematic cutscenes, and a bold open-level design that was ahead of its time.

The game stands out for its free-range level structure, letting players explore six sprawling dystopian zones rather than following a strict linear path. Combat centers on Hiryu's Plasma Cypher, a versatile energy sword with eight unlockable techniques — including boomerang throws, defensive barriers, and charged slashes. A combo system rewards chaining attacks to build meter for devastating screen-clearing specials, while L1 and R1 let you cycle through techniques on the fly.

Hiryu is a silent, agile cyber-ninja whose acrobatic movement defines the experience. Players traverse environments ranging from the Kazakh Steppes to the Balrog air fortress, facing off against heavily armed soldiers and towering mech bosses like the Twin Eight and Solo. Collecting energy orbs throughout each zone unlocks new Cypher abilities, giving players the tools to tackle challenges in multiple ways.

Though it received mixed reviews on release for its technical hiccups, Strider (1999) has since gained a cult following for its ambitious design and fluid combat. Its non-linear level structure and upgrade-driven gameplay influenced later action-platformers, and it remains a fascinating entry in Capcom's catalog for retro gaming enthusiasts seeking something beyond the ordinary.