TransBot on the Sega Master System is one of those weird little gems from the '80s where you pilot a robot that can transform into a jet mid-level. The first time I played, I kept forgetting to switch forms at the right moment—turns out hovering over obstacles as a jet is way easier than trying to platform with clunky robot legs.

The pixel art has that classic early Sega vibe, all neon grids and chunky enemy designs. Some of the later stages get brutal with enemy spam, but there’s something satisfying about memorizing attack patterns and finally nailing that perfect run. Not gonna lie, the music’s basically just beeps, but it weirdly works when you’re dodging bullets at 2 AM.

If you’re into retro shooters that don’t hold your hand, this one’s a solid time capsule. Just don’t expect a deep story—it’s all about the robot go-shoot-loop.