After Burner

“After Burner” is a classic arcade flight simulation game developed by Sega and first released in 1987. Set within the cockpit of an F-14 Tomcat fighter jet, players engage in high-speed aerial combat against enemy aircraft. The game is known for its intense speed, dynamic gameplay, and the use of a rotating cockpit to enhance the sense of immersion. After Burner quickly became a landmark title in the arcade gaming landscape, showcasing Sega’s prowess in creating thrilling and visually impressive experiences.

Developed during the peak of Sega’s arcade dominance, After Burner was the brainchild of Yu Suzuki, a legendary game designer known for his innovative contributions to the industry. The game was influenced by Suzuki’s fascination with aviation and fighter jets. Sega aimed to push the boundaries of arcade technology, utilizing custom hardware to deliver fast-paced and visually stunning 3D graphics. The result was a game that not only set new standards for graphics but also provided an exhilarating gameplay experience.

Upon its release, After Burner received widespread acclaim for its cutting-edge graphics, high-speed gameplay, and immersive cockpit simulation. Players were captivated by the sense of speed and the adrenaline-fueled dogfights. The game’s success solidified Sega’s position as an industry leader in arcade game development. Critics and players alike praised After Burner for its technical achievements and its ability to deliver a thrilling, cinematic gaming experience.

After Burner saw adaptations for various gaming platforms, including home consoles and personal computers. The success of the original game led to the development of sequels and spin-offs, such as “After Burner II” and “After Burner Climax.” These titles continued to build upon the intense aerial combat theme introduced by the original After Burner, maintaining the series’ reputation for high-speed action.

Original After Burner arcade cabinets by Sega are considered moderately rare, with the number of surviving units influencing their scarcity. As of 2023, well-preserved and operational cabinets are sought after by collectors. The value of an After Burner arcade cabinet varies based on factors such as condition, originality, and demand within the collector’s market.

After Burner ran on Sega’s custom-designed hardware. The hardware included a Motorola 68000 processor, Yamaha YM2151 sound chip, and Sega’s proprietary graphics processing unit. For enthusiasts interested in repairing or maintaining an original After Burner arcade cabinet, relevant parts may include replacement buttons, a flight stick assembly, power supplies, and common arcade circuitry components. The game’s unique rotating cockpit mechanism may require specialized attention, making it a challenging yet rewarding restoration project for dedicated arcade enthusiasts.

Arcade Video Game Price and Field Guide:

After Burner:
Dedicated Upright, Cockpit, Motorized Cockpit
Genre: Air Combat, 3rd Person Shooter

Upright Version:
Lower – 450
Average – 500
Higher – 700

Non-Motorized Cockpit
Lower – 1500
Average – 2000
Higher – 2500

Motorized Cockpit
Lower – 2750
Average – 3750
Higher – 4500+