In the Hunt is one of the more underrated shmups in Irem's library, taking one of the more unique vehicular approaches to gameplay and pulling it off with stunning results.

One of the games in the D.A.S. universe in which an evil organization has flooded the planet via melting the polar ice caps - humanity has secretly created a powerful submarine that must dive through D.A.S. waters, destroy every ship and weapon in sight, and destroy their base to restore peace. This submarine has two types of weapons - a forward missile and an upward missile/gun that simultaneously drops mines. Knowing where to place the player and firing each weapon is key and can blow plenty of enemies and bosses to smithereens with the right angle. Powerups can also modify the front facing missile to three types (more by preference than by situationally changing them) and two types of vertical attacks (more situational but I still preferred the missiles). Treasure balls for points (and lives) are also hidden throughout the game.

The visuals used to convey this plot are gorgeous. Icebergs smash into pieces off of missiles, ice beams cast pillars in the ocean, sunken ruins blow to bits as the player smashes through them, sea vents spew boulders, ancient fish swarm the depths - everything is lovingly detailed and the hitboxes are distinct enough for the player to maneuver around. This is a must because this game is Irem levels of HARD. While the player can sneak through thick enemy fire the one-hit kills, difficult angles, and barrages of fire can daunt less skilled players. It's a little more manageable (and entertaining) than R-Type at least.

This game has a healthy amount of stages for a shmup (six) and a variety of endings that encourage both single player and multiplayer - I won't spoil which, but I can definitely say fans of shmups (Irem or Metal Slug) will find a gem at the bottom of this treacherous sea.