Buckle up, flyers…it’s time for take-off! Rising Star Games, Inc. today announced that its action-packed shmup (shoot ’em up) arcade game Akai Katana has shipped to retailers nationwide. Released exclusively for the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, Akai Katana places gamers in a parallel world resembling Japan’s Taisho period.

"As our first North American title, Akai Katana solidifies our global position in the interactive entertainment industry," said Martin Defries, president of Rising Star Games. "The support from fans and the community, combined with our future plans has been fantastic to see as the newest publisher on the block.”

Akai Katana puts the sword in players’ hands as they take on a tyrannical empire of bloodshed to restore peace and order to the world they once knew. Presented in stunning HD graphics and featuring three gameplay modes, Akai Katana provides a true side-scrolling experience with the adrenaline-filled action that fans of the genre have come to expect.

Developed by CAVE Interactive and published by Rising Star Games, Akai Katana is currently available for $39.99 at retailers nationwide. The game is also available for ‘29.99 in Europe. Akai Katana is rated "T" for Teen by the ESRB and is available exclusively on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system.