Life Force (Japanese: Salamander) is a classic side-scrolling shooter developed and published by Konami in 1986 as a spin-off of the Gradius series. Set inside a massive living organism, players pilot the Vic Viper starfighter through bio-themed stages, destroy enemies, and defeat the core to save the universe. It features a power-up system similar to Gradius, letting players collect items to upgrade weapons and defenses. With six stages, diverse enemies, and intricate terrain, it tests players’ reflexes and skills. Praised worldwide for its unique setting and high difficulty, Life Force is a landmark classic in shooter game history.