Stancade is a 2D retro-style arcade defense game where a single Shooter stands as the last line of protection for the base. Positioned at the bottom-center of the screen, the Shooter rotates its turret to track incoming threats from air and land.
Enemy waves evolve as the game progresses. Helicopters release parachuted ToolBoxes that can be destroyed while descending. Any ToolBox that reaches the ground safely will join others and merge into Tanks, creating ground pressure. Bombers drop angled bombs aimed directly at the Shooter; if not intercepted in time, they reduce health. Fighter Jets deploy EMP devices that temporarily disable rotation and firing.
Difficulty ramps up steadily, testing the player’s attention, timing, and environmental awareness.
Each wave introduces new patterns to react to. Tanks fire from the ground, airborne units approach at different speeds, and the player must choose which threat to prioritize. The goal is to survive as long as possible, reach the highest level, and safeguard the base through rising challenges.
Helpful crates appear at specific moments. Health Crates restore durability, while Bullet Crates supply extra ammunition when shot in time. A powerful Laser system is also available, clearing everything along its path for a brief but decisive moment.
Players can customize how they play: rotating with touch-sliding zones or using a virtual joystick. Audio options can be adjusted or disabled.
The game features structured stages — Basic, Advanced, Hard, and Endless War – Chaos Stage. Reaching key milestones rewards the General title, after which players may continue into Endless mode for pure endurance.
With its black-and-white retro aesthetic, continuous waves, simple controls, and steadily rising tension, Stancade offers a focused and fast-paced arcade defense experience.