Complex X cover art

Game dossier

Complex X

Available now

Arcade platform shooter from Taito America’s unreleased hardware lineage

The briefing

About this game

Complex X is a platform arcade shooter released by P.G.D. in April 1985. The game was originally intended for Taito America, and its title screen retains Taito America credits and a 1984 copyright date.

Players control a nuclear scientist using two eight-way joysticks: one for movement and one for firing. The scientist must escape a flooding reactor before his air runs out, while shooting creatures that block his route. Blue-and-magenta squares add ten shots to his reserve, which begins at 50 shots per level.

The scientist can wrap around the sides of the screen, and a button on the firing joystick makes him jump. Careful timing is required to reach moving magenta platforms. Reaching the exit awards 100 points for every remaining shot.

Game Details

  • Genre: Arcade, Platform, Platform / Shooter
  • Platforms: Arcade, Final Burn Alpha Neo
  • Developer: Taito
  • Publisher: Taito America Corporation
  • Hardware: The final game to use the altered Taito Qix hardware associated with Space Dungeon, The Electric Yo-Yo, Kram, and Zoo Keeper