1943: The Battle of Midway

“1943: The Battle of Midway” is a classic shoot ’em up arcade game developed by Capcom and released in 1987. Serving as a sequel to the popular “1942,” the game continues the World War II theme, placing players in the cockpit of a P-38 Lightning as they engage in intense aerial combat over the Pacific Ocean. Known for its challenging gameplay, cooperative multiplayer option, and innovative power-up system, 1943 builds upon the success of its predecessor, offering an immersive and action-packed arcade experience.

Following the success of “1942,” Capcom developed 1943 to expand upon the formula that made its predecessor a classic. Yoshiki Okamoto, the designer of the original game, played a key role in the development of 1943. The sequel introduced new features, including a health bar, a secondary weapon system, and a more varied level design. Released during a time when shoot ’em ups were gaining popularity, 1943 showcased Capcom’s commitment to evolving the genre.

1943: The Battle of Midway received positive reception for its improvements over the original and its challenging yet rewarding gameplay. The addition of cooperative multiplayer gameplay was particularly well-received, enhancing the overall arcade experience. The game’s graphics, sound design, and tight controls contributed to its critical acclaim, solidifying its status as a classic in the shoot ’em up genre.

1943 saw adaptations for various gaming platforms, including home consoles and computer systems. It also led to the creation of sequels and spin-offs, such as “1943 Kai: Midway Kaisen” and “1941: Counter Attack.” These titles continued to build upon the success of 1943, introducing new gameplay elements and expanding the narrative of the 19XX series.

Original arcade cabinets of 1943: The Battle of Midway by Capcom are considered relatively common, as the game enjoyed widespread popularity and distribution. As of 2023, operational and well-maintained cabinets are available within the collector’s market, with prices influenced by factors such as condition, originality, and demand. The game’s popularity and the durability of Capcom arcade cabinets contribute to a reasonable number of surviving units.

1943 ran on standard Capcom arcade hardware of the time, similar to its predecessor. The hardware included a Z80 microprocessor, a custom Capcom sound chip, and a color raster display. For enthusiasts interested in repairing or maintaining an original 1943 arcade cabinet, relevant parts may include replacement buttons, joystick assemblies, power supplies, and common arcade circuitry components. The game’s hardware simplicity and Capcom’s commitment to durable arcade cabinets make it a suitable candidate for restoration projects within the arcade gaming community.

Arcade Video Game Price and Field Guide:

1943: The Battle of Midway:
Dedicated Upright, Conversion Kit
Genre: Aerial Combat, Scrolling shooter

Lower – 550
Average – 725
Higher – 950