2-Way Missile: Similar to the weapon of Salamander in that a pair of missiles are launched above and below.In return for this, the missile will pass through all targets until it touches something indestructible. Photon Torpedo: Much like the missile, but drops straight out of the ship/Option, making it a bit more unwieldy.It is very powerful, and the ballistic dropping arc is useful for hitting enemies however, even the bosses can be defeated easily with these bombs.

Instead, it detonates on impact, causing a large explosion that deals damage (this is why it is considered to be the best missile weapon in the game). It does not, however, coast along the terrain. Spread Bomb: Similar to the Napalm weapon of Nemesis 2.However, the power has been reduced (or the enemies have become stronger). You no longer need to wait for all missiles to disappear before you can re-fire. Missile: Changed slightly from Gradius.Additionally, there are also two types of shielding to choose from: 'Shield' and 'Force Field'. All schemes have Speed-Up and Multiples (Options), but have differing 'Missile', 'Double', and 'Laser' weapons. Gradius II retains the Power Meter bar from Gradius, but now the player can choose between four different weapon configurations and progressions. This game also marks the arrival of the Option Hunter, which like the two stages mentioned above, would also become a staple in the series. The ' Speed Stage' - A stage (likely inspired by the escape sequence at the end of Salamander) where the game scrolls faster than normal as the Vic Viper tries to maneuver its way through narrow corridors.The ' Boss Rush' - Levels designed entirely with only boss confrontations.Gradius II also introduces two special stages, which would becomeįamously recurring in the series and its spin-off, namely: This is primarily evident in two of the weapons configurations that are selectable. Gradius II has kept the gameplay from the original game, but infused it with enhancements brought from the spin-off, Salamander, and the Japanese arcade release of Life Force. The Gradius forces again look to their savior - the Vic Viper - to save them from annihilation. This time, the attack is led by a new enemy - a special unit known as Gofer. The Vic Viper drove deep into the heart of the enemy forces and destroyed the Bacterian stronghold, the Xaerous Fortress, and brought victory to Gradius.īut now, the Bacterian menace is again threatening the planet Gradius. On the brink of defeat, Gradius launched its last hope, the hyper-space fighter Vic Viper. Two years ago, the planet Gradius was suddenly attacked by a Bacterian invasion fleet.

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