Get to the chopper! The classic arcade and Dreamcast shooter, Under Defeat, has arrived on Switch today, courtesy of Clear River Games and City Connection. Prepare for some old-school shoot ’em up action that’s sure to get your adrenaline pumping.
A Blast from the Past (with Modern Upgrades)
Originally released in arcades in 2005 and later on the Dreamcast, Under Defeat lets you pilot one of four combat helicopters, either solo or in two-player co-op. Blast your way through waves of enemies across land, air, and sea, taking on tank battalions, massive warships, and enemy aircraft. The game’s unique ability to tilt shots left or right adds a layer of strategic depth to the classic shmup formula.
This isn’t just a straight port, though. City Connection, known for their retro port expertise, has included DLC content previously exclusive to Japan. Alongside the faithful “Arcade Mode,” you’ll find “New Order Mode,” optimized for modern widescreen displays, and “New Order Mode+,” which adds a “WARNING GAUGE” mechanic for a fresh, risk/reward twist on the gameplay.

Choose Your Weapon (and Game Mode)
- Arcade Mode: The classic experience, just like you remember it (or maybe never got to experience).
- New Order Mode: Widescreen action for modern TVs.
- New Order Mode+: Widescreen with a new “WARNING GAUGE” mechanic for added challenge and strategic depth.
A Soundtrack to Soar By
Under Defeat features an incredible soundtrack, newly arranged by video game music veteran Shinji Hosoe (of Ridge Racer and Tekken fame) and his company, Super Sweep.