Demon Front is a side-scrolling run and gun arcade game released in 2002 by International Games System. The look and gameplay is similar to Metal Slug, but it is more horror themed and lacks the vehicles that were an element of Metal Slug.
In addition, there are some unique features in the game. Each of the four characters brings along a pet, which can be sent to attack enemies or used as a shield. There are three buttons: Shoot, jump, and shield. Holding the shoot button charges the player’s pet, and when released the pet launches a stationary devastating attack for a few seconds. The shield button converts the pet into a shield that is permanent, until players press the button again or it takes enough damage to disappear. Melee attacks and pet attacks release hearts which boost their shield power.