Over the years, Konami has been one of the most supportive software developers to the console and handheld scene, introducing gamers to a variety of popular game franchises. Following the success of Castlevania: Circle of the Moon, Konami has set out to reintroduce a series of classic game properties, as we have periodically featured on TNL including the upcoming release of Gradius Galaxies. In a followup to our recent coverage, I had the opportunity to spend some quality time with Gradius Galaxies, a title which will be immediately recognized by avid shooter fans and in turn, appeal to a new generation of players looking for a challenging, action-packed experience.

"If it ain't broke...don't fix it."

Anyone that's familiar with the original Gradius won't have to worry about any dramatic differences (aside from the obvious fact that the latest edition is more compact). The story, like many other shooters places you (the hero of this space saga) against an evil force that has taken control of a nearby star system and thus it's up to you to eliminate this menace from existance.

Adopting the same interface as the PS2 edition, at the start of play, Gradius Galaxies allows players to select from a pre-configured selection accustomed to your play style which varies in firepower, speed, and defenses. The graphics are very sharp and clear, and quite vivid in color. Every element from the Gradius classic is all here - the fire dragons, the endless squadron of enemy ships, and of course the trademark Easter Island statues (well, that's what I've always recognized them as being). It was a quite a nostalgic moment for me. As for overall visibility, I had no difficulty being able to distinguish my craft from enemy ships, powerups, and the level terrain. The gameplay is pretty straightforward - blast every enemy element, avoid non-combustible objects (such as moving asteroids), and collect powerups which empower your craft and convert you into a force to be reckoned with. Upon reaching the end of each level, you'll encounter a massive boss in which you must demonstrate your shooter prowess and eliminate it from existance. Hero requistes are quite entertaining...

What's new in the galaxy...

Gradius Galaxies features eight levels in total, but due to time constraints (and the nasty fire dragons in level 2), I wasn't able to bask in the challenge and excellence of the additional stages that are available...something to indulge in for the near future. Naturally, no shooter is complete with a efficient complement of firepower. Not to worry as the new installment features 14 weapons, consisting of lasers, missles, shields; in addition to a new feature new to the series, which allows you to deploy rear shots (something I could've used years ago!!!) To add additional replay value and challenge, Gradius Galaxies feature variable difficulty levels for novice and expert players. Personally, I won't opt for a harder setting until I can mastered the default level...my shooter skills are a tad rusty.

Based on my initial impressions Gradius Galaxies is a solid investment, balanced in the areas of graphics, control and challenge that will attract casual and diehard shooter fans. Scheduled for a November release, stay tuned for additional updates as they become available along with an upcoming hands-on review.

· · · Bahn