Access to Toaplan’s arcade library has changed dramatically in recent years.
Where once fans had to hunt down original cabinets, a succession of releases has made classics like Flying Shark and Fire Shark far easier to play.
M2’s Shottriggers line kicked off a renewed focus on Toaplan titles, and subsequent collections have appeared on platforms including Steam, mobile stores, and the Nintendo Switch.
That context helps explain why the localized release of Toaplan Arcade Garage: Flying Fire Shark — a collection first released in Japan several years ago — feels notably late, and why its value depends on what you want from retro shooters on Nintendo Switch.
What’s included and how it compares
Toaplan Arcade Garage: Flying Fire Shark ships on Nintendo Switch with the arcade versions of Flying Shark and Fire Shark as its core offerings, plus regional variants.
An optional DLC adds the arcade version of Wardner and several home-console ports of the games.
By contrast, Toaplan Arcade Collection Vol. 1 bundles Flying Shark and Fire Shark alongside six additional Toaplan titles and their regional variants, making it a broader package for players seeking more content on the eShop or physical compilations.
Who should buy Flying Fire Shark?
This localized release is aimed primarily at dedicated shoot ’em up enthusiasts.
Players who prioritize emulation fidelity and the smallest differences in input latency will appreciate the attention to detail M2 applies in its Toaplan emulations.
The collection’s standout feature is a robust practice mode that breaks each game into sections and provides tools to learn patterns and strategies — a practical aid for players serious about mastering 1CCs or climbing online leaderboards.
For more casual players who simply want to jump in, earn a few high scores, and enjoy online rankings, Toaplan Arcade Collection Vol. 1 represents stronger value because of its larger lineup.
However, Flying Fire Shark offers a slightly more precise emulation of its two primary games and extra options for players who want to study and perfect runs.
About the games
Both Flying Shark and Fire Shark represent Toaplan’s approach to vertically scrolling shooters.
Flying Shark delivers straightforward shooting action with upgradable primary fire and limited bombs, while Fire Shark expands the formula with more varied weapon pick-ups, additional bombs, and a higher difficulty curve that rewards practice and familiarity.
The practice mode included in the Arcade Garage release is particularly helpful for player progression.
Verdict and testing
Toaplan Arcade Garage: Flying Fire Shark is a focused, premium offering for hardcore fans and those seeking best-possible emulation and practice features on Nintendo Switch.
Players who favor breadth over depth will find more immediate value in Toaplan Arcade Collection Vol. 1, but those willing to invest in precision and study will appreciate this localized release.
Version Tested: Nintendo Switch
Review Copy Provided by M2
Total Score: 8/10
Author: Shaun Musgrave
Where once fans had to hunt down original cabinets, a succession of releases has made classics like Flying Shark and Fire Shark far easier to play.
M2’s Shottriggers line kicked off a renewed focus on Toaplan titles, and subsequent collections have appeared on platforms including Steam, mobile stores, and the Nintendo Switch.
That context helps explain why the localized release of Toaplan Arcade Garage: Flying Fire Shark — a collection first released in Japan several years ago — feels notably late, and why its value depends on what you want from retro shooters on Nintendo Switch.
What’s included and how it compares
Toaplan Arcade Garage: Flying Fire Shark ships on Nintendo Switch with the arcade versions of Flying Shark and Fire Shark as its core offerings, plus regional variants.
An optional DLC adds the arcade version of Wardner and several home-console ports of the games.
By contrast, Toaplan Arcade Collection Vol. 1 bundles Flying Shark and Fire Shark alongside six additional Toaplan titles and their regional variants, making it a broader package for players seeking more content on the eShop or physical compilations.
Who should buy Flying Fire Shark?
This localized release is aimed primarily at dedicated shoot ’em up enthusiasts.
Players who prioritize emulation fidelity and the smallest differences in input latency will appreciate the attention to detail M2 applies in its Toaplan emulations.
The collection’s standout feature is a robust practice mode that breaks each game into sections and provides tools to learn patterns and strategies — a practical aid for players serious about mastering 1CCs or climbing online leaderboards.
For more casual players who simply want to jump in, earn a few high scores, and enjoy online rankings, Toaplan Arcade Collection Vol. 1 represents stronger value because of its larger lineup.
However, Flying Fire Shark offers a slightly more precise emulation of its two primary games and extra options for players who want to study and perfect runs.
About the games
Both Flying Shark and Fire Shark represent Toaplan’s approach to vertically scrolling shooters.
Flying Shark delivers straightforward shooting action with upgradable primary fire and limited bombs, while Fire Shark expands the formula with more varied weapon pick-ups, additional bombs, and a higher difficulty curve that rewards practice and familiarity.
The practice mode included in the Arcade Garage release is particularly helpful for player progression.
Verdict and testing
Toaplan Arcade Garage: Flying Fire Shark is a focused, premium offering for hardcore fans and those seeking best-possible emulation and practice features on Nintendo Switch.
Players who favor breadth over depth will find more immediate value in Toaplan Arcade Collection Vol. 1, but those willing to invest in precision and study will appreciate this localized release.
Version Tested: Nintendo Switch
Review Copy Provided by M2
Total Score: 8/10
Author: Shaun Musgrave
