How about autoscrolling shmups where you don’t die after every hit and get to upgrade your ship between missions?

The oldschool entry in this niche would be Tyrian – released in 1995, made freeware in 2004, then ported to modern OSes.

2004 was also when Jets’N’Guns came out. It looks more modern, has a quirky sense of humor and a badass metal soundtrack. It also has a sequel.

Both games can be found on your (PC) digital marketplace of choice.