Originally designed to take advantage of the Super NES' "Mode 7" effect for pseudo-3D backgrounds, Axelay is a futuristic shooter alternating between side- and vertical-scrolling stages. Pilot a sleek spacecraft while engaging an assortment of hostile threats on planets comprised of lava, water, clouds, rock, and more. In a departure from typical entries in the genre, Axelay does not feature collectible power-ups to enhance your ship's offensive capabilities. Instead, new munitions are automatically awarded upon completing certain levels. You must then decide which air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons to bring with you on subsequent stages. Choose from three difficulty settings and battle through six levels in total, each culminating in a boss fight, to save the galaxy from an alliterate enemy known as the "Armada of Annhilation." ~ Scott Alan Marriott, All Game Guide