Hanii in the Sky

About

Hanii in the Sky is a vertical-scrolling shooter built for the PC Engine’s arcade-style action. You pilot a haniwa clay figure armed with a directional gun that can fire in eight angles at once. Waves of demons and youkai swarm from all sides while bosses dart across the screen forcing quick adjustments. Collect power-ups to expand your firing range and buy health from Izanagi, a deity acting as your support base. The game leans on reflexes and strategy to survive its chaotic waves. What makes this one stick is the weapon’s rotating fire mechanic which demands constant awareness as enemies attack from every corner. Though forgotten outside Japan, its influence lingers, the sequel Hanii on the Road shifted to a ground-based platformer but kept the same rapid-paced spirit. Released in 1989, it remains a niche example of TurboGrafx-16’s early shooter experimentation.