King and Balloon

Released by Namco in 1980, King & Balloon is a fixed-screen shooter in which players defend the King on the ground from encroaching balloon formations. The game's most notable feature is an innovative system for its time: players can be shot down any number of times without a game over, provided the King is not captured. Its pioneering use of voice synthesis also drew significant attention; the King’s witty remarks, such as calling out "Help" or "Thank you," as well as his lighthearted "Bye-bye" when being carried away, became legendary among players. Due to its unique mechanics, the game boasts a high level of difficulty and remains remembered as a highly distinctive title in the early history of Namco’s arcade games.

Countless balloon formations are invading from the sky to abduct the King on the ground. Players must operate a cannon to shoot down the balloons and protect the King. Even if the King is snatched by a balloon, he can still be rescued by destroying the balloon carrying him before it disappears off-screen.