Thanks for your feedback! Certain sections require a certain weapon. The Moon charge while weaker can home in on enemies and go through objects. The rapid fire weapon is the strongest but requires aiming. The Bomb you only get 3 of but you're right the photon beam is pretty strong! I appreciate you trying out the game. It is designed to be a difficult SHMUP indeed but can be cleared on 1CC after a few tries. Its important to kill enemies early before they fill the screen. Thank you again so much for trying the game and for your feedback