Air Duel

Air Duel is a vertical arcade shooter from Irem in which players battle airborne and ground-based enemies across successive levels.

Aircraft Selection

At the beginning of each level, players can choose between a forward-firing jet fighter and a helicopter with shots that turn in the direction of movement. The jet’s power-ups improve shot width and strength, while the helicopter’s upgrades increase shot strength and add more bullets with a spread effect.

Weapons and Progression

Both aircraft begin with three bombs. These clear enemies and enemy shots, producing horizontal blasts whose path can be directed left or right. Additional bombs can be collected during play. Losing a life resets the aircraft’s power and bomb count to their starting amounts.

Players advance by defeating enemies and bosses, but the challenge becomes especially severe in later levels when losing a life can significantly reduce available firepower.

• Developer: Irem
• Publisher: Irem
• Release: December 31, 1989
• Platforms: Arcade, Final Burn Alpha Neo