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Gradius is a classic shooter game released for the Nintendo NES in 1985. Players control the Vic Viper spacecraft, navigating through side-scrolling levels filled with enemies and obstacles. The main objective is to survive waves of alien attacks while defeating bosses to progress through increasingly challenging stages.
The game features a steady, deliberate pace that requires strategic movement and precise shooting. A distinctive mechanic in Gradius is its power-up system, where players collect capsules to advance a selection bar and choose specific upgrades, such as missiles, speed boosts, or shields. This system encourages players to plan their power-up usage carefully, adding an element of tactical depth uncommon in shooters of its time.
Gradius introduces an unusual idea with its combination of horizontal scrolling and a customizable upgrade path, setting it apart from typical linear shooters. The game’s soundtrack and level design also contribute to a memorable experience, emphasizing both timing and pattern recognition. This approach has influenced many later titles in the genre.
