Written entirely in C++ with low-level DirectX — taught from scratch mid-project because VB6 wasn't fast enough for the network sync. The engine handles parallax scrolling, collision detection, AI and multiplayer.

Every sprite, background, explosion and UI element was created by David himself. Ships, enemies, environments, bullet patterns — all hand-crafted, pixel by pixel.

Music and sound effects composed and produced by David. The full audio experience — engine roars, weapon blasts, explosions and a driving soundtrack — all original.

A full narrative universe — lore, characters, factions, the story of the shadow — written entirely by David and woven through every level of the game.

Custom enemy AI with formation flying, adaptive attack patterns and boss behaviours — all hand-coded. The AI that started as a Snake 3000 experiment evolved into a full combat intelligence system.

The reason VB6 had to go — network synchronisation code that enables real-time multiplayer. The technical challenge that forced David to learn C++ and ultimately produced something extraordinary.

A comprehensive user manual covering installation, controls, gameplay mechanics, storyline and technical documentation — all written by David as part of the original submission.

Multi-layer parallax scrolling backgrounds creating a deep sense of speed and space — the signature visual effect of the Raiden-era shoot-em-ups, faithfully recreated in DirectX.

End-of-level boss encounters with unique attack patterns, weak points and multi-phase battles — the set-piece moments that define the shoot-em-up genre, brought to life from scratch.