Choplifter on the Sega Master System is one of those games that looks simple at first—just fly a chopper, pick up hostages, and get them home safely—but man, does it get tense fast. You’re dodging tanks, jets, and even weird little dudes with bazookas while trying not to tilt your helicopter too hard and send your rescued passengers tumbling to their doom.

The controls feel surprisingly tight for an '80s arcade port, though landing perfectly takes some practice. I remember my first few runs ending in disaster because I’d come in too hot and crush half the people I was trying to save. Once you get the hang of it, though, there’s something weirdly satisfying about nailing a smooth landing under fire.

It’s got that classic arcade vibe where every level throws something new at you—one minute you’re weaving through canyons, the next you’re getting swarmed by enemy choppers. And yeah, the pixelated hostages waving their little arms at you? Weirdly charming. If you’re into retro games that don’t hold your hand, this one’s a solid pick.