Ikari Warriors is a shooter game released for the Nintendo NES in 1986. Players take control of commandos who must fight through enemy-filled jungles and military bases to complete their mission. The main objective is to navigate various stages by defeating waves of enemies and bosses to progress.

The game operates at a fast pace, demanding quick reflexes and strategic movement. A unique mechanic in Ikari Warriors is the ability to rotate the player’s character independently from their movement direction, allowing for more precise aiming and shooting. This adds an extra layer of control compared to other shooters of its time.

One unusual idea in the game is the inclusion of a rotary joystick, which was adapted to simulate the character’s rotation on the NES controller. Additionally, the game features a distinctive two-player cooperative mode, encouraging teamwork as players advance through challenging levels together.