Power Strike II is one of those Sega Master System shooters that somehow feels both punishing and fair at the same time. You start off with this tiny ship that looks like it’ll get wrecked in two seconds—until you realize how tight the controls are. The first level throws these slow, weaving enemies at you, almost like the game’s easing you in… then suddenly the screen’s full of bullets and you’re frantically dodging while trying to grab power-ups.

The soundtrack’s got that classic late-80s synth energy, all pulsing basslines and laser sound effects. And the sprite work? Surprisingly crisp for an 8-bit system—those boss explosions still look satisfying decades later. Just don’t get too attached to your lives; this thing plays by arcade rules where one mistimed move means starting over.

If you’ve got a soft spot for shmups that don’t hold your hand, this one’s aged way better than most from its era.