Gradius Origins

The main pros of the game

• Nostalgia and Accessibility: Players appreciate the ability to play classic arcade games from their childhood at home, with many expressing joy over the nostalgia factor.
• High-Quality Emulation: M2's reputation for accurate and polished ports shines through, with users noting the collection's high-quality emulation and attention to detail.
• Variety of Versions: The collection includes multiple versions of each game, offering different gameplay experiences and allowing players to explore the evolution of the series.
• New Content: The addition of Salamander III has been well-received, with many players enjoying its gameplay and music.
• Customizability: The games come with various options for difficulty adjustments, including invincibility modes and training modes, making them more accessible to new players.
• Additional Features: Users appreciate features like save states, online leaderboards, and a gallery of artworks and music, enhancing the overall experience.

The main cons of the game

• Price Point: Some users feel that the $40 price tag is steep, suggesting that it may only be worth it for die-hard fans or during sales.
• Missing Titles: Key games such as Gradius IV, V, and Gaiden are absent from the collection, leading to disappointment among fans who hoped for a more comprehensive package.
• Technical Issues: Reports of display issues, such as stuttering on high-refresh-rate monitors and lack of VSync options, have frustrated some players.
• High Difficulty Level: The inherent difficulty of Gradius games can be off-putting for casual players, with some reviews warning new players to be prepared for a challenging experience.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

• Full Console Ports: Many users expressed a desire for console versions of the games to be included, particularly the NES ports and other home console adaptations.
• Additional Modes for Salamander III: Unlike the other games, Salamander III lacks certain features like training modes and widgets that would enhance the gameplay experience.
• Improved Controller Support: Some players reported issues with controller mapping and functionality, suggesting that better support for various controller types is needed.
• Volume Control Issues: Users noted low volume levels and a lack of individual sound control for music and sound effects, which detracted from the experience.

Summary

• Overall, while GRADIUS ORIGINS is celebrated for its quality and nostalgic value, it faces criticism for its pricing, missing titles, and some technical shortcomings. Players remain hopeful for future expansions that could include more titles from the Gradius franchise.

Summary generated on: October 29, 2025