Summary
- Release Year: 1994
- Genres: Arcade, Shooter
- Platforms: Arcade, PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation, Sega Saturn
- Developers: Taito
- Publishers: Acclaim, Interplay, Taito
Darius Gaiden: A Vertical Scrolling Shoot ‘Em Up Masterpiece
Released in 1994, Darius Gaiden is a two-dimensional shoot ’em up arcade game developed by Taito. It is the third installment in the Darius series, and is known for its challenging gameplay, beautiful graphics, and innovative features.
Gameplay
The player controls the Silver Hawk, a starfighter that is armed with forward-firing missiles, aerial bombs, and a protective force field. The ship can be upgraded by collecting power-ups that are dropped by enemies. New to the Silver Hawk’s arsenal in Darius Gaiden is the ‘black hole bomb.’ When fired, the black hole bomb will create a large vortex in the center of the screen, which sucks in enemies and projectiles for a short moment, until it explodes into a powerful ball of lightning that inflicts massive damage onto every enemy on the screen.
Another feature introduced Darius Gaiden is the ability to capture minibosses. Each miniboss has a small, circular ball placed on them that, after receiving enough damage, will detach and float away, causing the miniboss to turn idle. If the player collects the ball, the miniboss will follow and aid the player by firing at enemies. After a brief period of time, or the player loses a life, the miniboss will explode.
Darius Gaiden features a total of seven stages, each with its own uniqueボス. The stages are set in a variety of environments, including space, underwater, and inside a giant alien creature. The game is known for its high difficulty, and players will need to use all of their skills to survive.
Graphics and Sound
Darius Gaiden is a visually stunning game. The graphics are colorful and detailed, and the backgrounds are full of life. The game’s soundtrack is also excellent, and it features a mix of catchy tunes and intense sound effects.
Reception
Darius Gaiden was a critical and commercial success. It was praised for its challenging gameplay, beautiful graphics, and innovative features. The game has been ported to a number of home consoles, and it remains popular with shoot ’em up fans today.
Legacy
Darius Gaiden is considered to be one of the greatest shoot ’em ups ever made. It has been praised for its challenging gameplay, beautiful graphics, and innovative features. The game has had a lasting impact on the genre, and it continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world.
Darius Gaiden Extra Edition
A few months following release, update to the arcade version was later released entitled “Darius Gaiden Extra Edition”. This version of arcade game contains rearranged levels, as well as automatically-enabled auto fire, two extra weapon power levels (bigger wave shot and a bigger red wave shot as well) and an all-stage mode which can be accessed by starting the game in 2P side.
Conclusion
Darius Gaiden is a classic shoot ’em up that is still enjoyed by fans today. It is a challenging and rewarding game that offers beautiful graphics, innovative features, and an unforgettable soundtrack. If you are a fan of shoot ’em ups, then you owe it to yourself to check out Darius Gaiden.
Tips for Playing Darius Gaiden
- Use the black hole bomb to your advantage. It is a powerful weapon that can clear the screen of enemies.
- Capture minibosses to help you in battle. They can provide you with additional firepower and support.
- Learn the patterns of the bosses. Each boss has a unique set of attacks, and you will need to learn how to avoid them in order to survive.
- Don’t give up! Darius Gaiden is a challenging game, but it is also very rewarding. With practice, you will be able to master the game and defeat the final boss.
Review Score
8.5/10
Art
Cover Art
Screenshots
