Slap Fight (Alcon): Toaplan’s Classic Vertical Shooter

Introduction

Released in 1986, Slap Fight—also known as Alcon in some regions—is a vertical-scrolling shoot ’em up developed by Toaplan and published by Taito in Japan. Known for its weapon upgrade system and smooth gameplay, it combined the fast-paced action of early shooters with strategic power-up choices. Though it didn’t become as globally famous as later Toaplan hits like Twin Cobra or Truxton, Slap Fight is considered an important step in the evolution of arcade shooters and remains a favorite among retro gaming enthusiasts.

Development and History

  • Developer: Toaplan
  • Publisher: Taito (Japan), Elk Electronics (Europe)
  • Release Date: 1986

Slap Fight was released in Japan under its original title but was distributed in North America and some international regions as Alcon. The game featured a unique power-up bar mechanic inspired by Konami’s Gradius, allowing players to choose which upgrades to activate based on their playstyle. Toaplan developed it as part of its growing focus on vertically scrolling shooters, building upon ideas introduced in earlier titles like Tiger-Heli. The game received home computer ports in Europe and a well-known Sega Mega Drive port, Slap Fight MD, which added new content and modes.

Gameplay Video

Gameplay and Mechanics

  • Player Role: Control an advanced starfighter defending Earth from alien invaders.
  • Power-Up System: Collecting stars fills a power-up meter, allowing players to activate options such as speed boosts, wide shots, lasers, shields, and bombs.
  • Scrolling Action: Vertically scrolling stages filled with enemy waves, turrets, and challenging environmental obstacles.
  • Difficulty: Fast enemy projectiles and crowded screen layouts make precision movement and timing critical for survival.
  • Boss Battles: Each stage ends with a unique boss, often with large-scale, multi-phase attack patterns for its time.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

Slap Fight (also marketed as Alcon) may not have achieved the fame of Toaplan’s later shooters, but it contributed significantly to the refinement of vertical shooter mechanics. Its selectable power-up system gave players control over their playstyle and influenced the design of many later shoot ’em ups. The Sega Mega Drive version, Slap Fight MD, is often praised as one of the best home conversions of an arcade shooter, featuring new levels and an arranged soundtrack. Today, Slap Fight is fondly remembered in the retro gaming community and continues to be a staple in arcade shooter history discussions.

Fun Facts

  • The alternate title Alcon was primarily used in North America and some overseas markets, but the core gameplay remained identical.
  • Slap Fight MD for the Sega Mega Drive added a new “Special Mode” with entirely different levels, ships, and music.
  • The game’s power-up system influenced future Toaplan shooters and inspired mechanics used in titles by Raizing and other Japanese developer studios.

Conclusion

Slap Fight may not be the most famous Toaplan shooter, but its innovative power-up mechanics and fast-paced gameplay cemented its place in arcade history. Its combination of strategic weapon selection and relentless enemy waves provided a template for many shooters that followed. For fans of retro shoot ’em ups and classic vertical-scrolling action, Slap Fight remains an important and rewarding game to revisit decades later.

Want to Go Deeper Into Arcade History?

If this game left you craving more, dive into the complete stories behind some of the most iconic arcade genres and franchises. These articles explore the rise, innovation, and legacy of the games that shaped arcade culture:

Top 100 Arcade Games of All Time