Gmintyfresh's Shooting Corner

The Curse of Pal Raiden Fighters Aces

2012-01-27T05:27:00.000-08:00

Ahh the long and twisted tale of the Pal Raiden Fighters Aces (360) release might be nearing an end. I downloaded a demo of the game when I first picked up my 360 all those years ago and in the intervening years the rights to the game have shuffled from publisher to publisher. Indeed after numerous shifting release dates and company bankruptcies, there might be light at the end of the tunnel.

It appears that Raiden Fighters Aces might be getting a German PAL release at the end of March:

http://www.amazon.de/DTP-Raiden-Fighter-Aces/dp/B006M8HGME/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1327667187&sr=8-1

Listed on Amazon Germany

http://www.dtp-entertainment.com/de/index.php

Company listed as publisher - DTP

http://forum.dtp-entertainment.com/viewtopic.php?f=51&t=19924

And an interesting question on DTP's forum.

Considering that the company tend publish its titles as European releases and not soley for the German market this might mean we'll actually get a PAL release.

We have been here before though with the Australian PAL release last year which never made it out. I'm if it does make it out the game won't include the superplay DVD of the wonderful Japanese version (please prove me wrong). I'll keep you informed about this story as it unfolds.

AVSG Series 1 Challenge 1: Ketsui. Update Vid #1

2012-01-24T05:16:00.000-08:00

I'll be posting a new run video here tonight, this video represents the second best run I've done. Despite making some daft mistakes I still end up with a decent score, hopefully I'm going to get a better example because I forgot to save a replay of my top run!!

AVSG Series 1 Challenge 1: Ketsui

2012-01-18T02:53:00.001-08:00

This long and waffling post (as I know it will be at the beginning of writing this) could also have been titled "How Geoff found his way back to shmups" or "Geoff loves shmups again". I'm conscious over the last year that whilst bolstering my collection with quality shooters I've enjoyed the chase collecting these games rather than dusting off the consoles and playing them. In a way I've been unfair to these games and the genre I love so much, all this is changing. I felt at the beginning of the year the pull of blasting and weaving my way through hoardes of alien scum - I blame the PAL release of Dodonpachi Resurrection for this. Why does DDR have the distinction of reigniting the engines? Well being an owner of the Japanese version I picked up the PAL version as an afterthought because it was cheap, I could skim off some cheap achievements, and also because I wanted it for the 360 collection. As always when i pick up a new game it gets a test before it goes onto the shelf to be played at some future date - this was a fatal mistake. Thinking "I'll have just one go I might as well" led me to an hours worth of gaming and an urge to play more shooters.
So on a fateful night (13/01/11) whilst playing DDR my good friend AmidstStorm popped up online and a frustrating 20 mins trying to get a two player online game working (we still don't know how to do it) turned into a shmup challenge of epic proportions! Myself and AmidstStorm have decided to conduct a monthly shmup competition with each participant choosing a game to decide the king of shmups!! Well it's for fun really weve both admitted that we're average shmup players but for both of us it's an opportunity to play some of the games in our collection and have a friendly competition at the same time.

We set up a few rules that have been expalined very eloquently by AmidstStorm here: http://gunheadshmups.blogspot.com/2012/01/amidststorm-vs-gmintyfresh-high-score.html and on a basic level there are 2 laws to stick to

1> Default settings
2> 1 Credit

So the first choice in the series is Ketsui: Kizuna Jigoku Tachi EXTRA X-Mode on the 360, I must admit that I've not played the game that much. When it was originally released I really wondered what all the fuss was about becuase the game is held in such high regard by Cave fans, I'm starting to see why this is when playing for a score rather than survival. The game is set up to get as close to the enemies as possible in order to score higher. The levels and enemy patterns are set up maximise scoring potential and theres a great risk and reward structure to gameplay. There's nothing nicer than pulling of a big showboating chain successfully.

Personally so far I've enjoyed comparing gaming experiences with the stormy one and challenging myself to beat that last score, something that's sadly missing from more modern games.

Announcement Video:

First Run Video:

Top Tens - Games 2012

2012-01-12T15:19:00.001-08:00

Watch "Top Tens - Games 2012" on YouTube

List of 360 Shmups

2012-01-11T03:39:00.000-08:00

Just a personal list for my own reference:

Physical Releases:

Senko no Ronde Rev.X - Jul 25, 2006 / I own the LE version
Shikigami no Shiro III - Dec 12, 2007 / Jap version
Senko no Ronde Rev.X - Mar 04, 2008 (Platinum Collection)/ Don't own will pick up if I see it cheap
Raiden Fighters Aces - Mar 25, 2008 / Own the Jap version will pick up US if I see it cheap
Raiden IV - Sep 30, 2008 / Own Jap version will pick up the US release if I see it cheap
Otomedius Gorgeous - Nov 19, 2008 / Jap version owned
Dodonpachi Daioujou Black Label Extra - Feb 19, 2009 / 1st print version with tip/art book included owned
Shooting Love 200X - Feb 19, 2009 / Still yet to purchase
Death Smiles - Apr 24, 2009 / Jap Limited Edition owned
Mamoru-kun wa Norowarete Shimatta - Jun 25, 2009 / Jap Limited Edition Owned
Mushihimesama Futari - Nov 26, 2009 / Jap Limited Edition Owned
ESPGaluda II - Feb 25, 2010 / Jap Limited Edition Owned
Otomedius Gorgeous (Platinum Collection) - March 11, 2010 / Will pick up if I see it cheap
Deathsmiles (Platinum Collection) - April 8, 2010 / Will pick up if I see cheap
Ketsui - Apr 22, 2010 / Jap Limited Edition Owned
Senko no Ronde DUO - May 20, 2010 / Jap Limited Edition Owned
Death Smiles II X - May 27, 2010 / Jap Limited Editon Owned
Mamoru-kun wa Norowarete Shimatta - Jun 29, 2010 / Jap Limited Edition Owned
Strike Witches Shirogane no Tsubasa - July 29, 2010 / Jap Limited Edition Owned
Radirgy Noah - Oct 28, 2010 / Jap Version owned
Mushihimesama Futari (Platinum Collection) - Nov 11, 2010 / Will pick up if I see Cheap
Dodonpachi Daifukkatsu - Nov 25, 2010 / Jap Limited Editon Owned
Dodonpachi Daifukkatsu: Black Label - Feb 3, 2011 / Still to Purchase
Muchi Muchi Pork & Pink Sweets - February 24, 2011 / Jap Limited Edition Owned
Bullet Soul - Apr 7, 2011 / Jap Version Owned
Eschatos - Apr 7, 2011 / Jap Version Owned
Otomedius Excellent - Apr 21, 2011 / Jap Version Owned
ESPGaluda II (Platinum Collection) - Apr 28, 2011 / Will pick up if I see cheap
Akai Katana - May 26, 2011 / Jap Limited Edition Owned
Deathsmiles II X - Nov 10, 2011 (Platinum Collection) / Will pick up if I see cheap

>Others

US

Deathsmiles LE
Qubed
Otomedius Excellent LE

Uk

Wartech
Deathsmiles
Dodonpacho Resurrection
Popcap Hits Vol.2
Arcade Unplugged
Arcade Hits
Namco Hits Virtual Arcade - Still to buy

XBLA releases:

Aegis Wing - 2007 (US Marketplace only)
Ikaruga - 2008
Triggerheart Excelica - 2008
Omega Five - 2008
R-Type Dimensions - 2009
Raystorm HD - 2010
Space Invaders: Infinity Gene - 2010
King of Fighters: Sky Stage - 2010
Guwange - 2010
Strania - 2011
Trouble Witches Neo - 2011
Bangai-O: Missile Fury - 2011
Radiant Silvergun - 2011

Geoff's Top Ten Most Anticipated Games 2012 PT.1

2012-01-09T05:55:00.001-08:00

Another huge year for gaming, I’ve decided to pull together my 10 most anticipated games of 2012. This will form the basis of a video I'm planning to upload in the next few days.

10. Darkness II - I loved the underrated original which played better after the first few levels were trudged through, the game went to some very sick and twisted places and the actual implementation of the darkness in the game was very novel and original. The sequel seems to ramp this up even more and I’m really looking forward to this. Released 10/02/12 – I’ve opted for the 360 LE which has more DLC than the standard version.

9. Catherine – Mad, bonkers, Japanese, and a bit seedy. Released 10/02/12 I’ve preordered the PS3 Stray Sheep Special edition, you get a lot of crap with it, man February is going to be an expensive month.

8. Halo 4 – Otherwise know as the return of the Master Chief in my mind!! I love this series and hopefully the change of developer will shake the series up a bit, don’t get me wrong I loved 3, in fact I think it’s my favourite game in the series. However by the end of Reach the game formula seems a bit samey, the game needs to evolve in order to stay relevant in my opinion. Released Autumn 2012 Wouldn’t be surprised if this slipped.

7. GTA V – Always a big deal when a new game comes out in the series and the title always delivers on home consoles. Little is known about the game except it appears to be set in Los Santos and that the game resembles the mighty San Andreas which is no bad thing in my opinion. The game looks sprawling and hopefully will have a bit more to do in it than GTA4. This is going to be huge!! Released Possibly 2012

6. Bioshock Infinite – Easily my favourite FPS series and with Ken Levine back at the helm this can only be a fascinating adventure. Early indications are good, the game looks startlingly different and yet similar to BS1 & 2. Released 01/06/12 Going to plump for the 360 version unless the PS3 port is drastically better. Surly there will be special editions…

Part 2 tomorrow.

2011-11-16T04:09:00.000-08:00

Picked up Zone of Enders Second Runner the other day, the PAL version sells at a real premium so I was pleased to pick it up for £12 from an Amazon seller. I was really surprised when it turned up at my house on Friday brand new and sealed!!

I'm a huge fan of the original and this seems to be much less linear than it's predecessor

Anyway I think the artwork on this version is brilliant and I've heard great things about the game too.

Arcade Cabs Spotted at Leeds Royal Armouries

2011-11-09T08:06:00.001-08:00

I was shocked and presently surprised to see this set of arcade cabs in Leeds Royal Armouries. It's been years since I saw an arcade machine in Leeds centre and finding examples of Ghosts 'n' Goblins and 1942 were especially welcome because they were childhood friends. The best thing is that the Armouries are 10 mins walk from work! Pumped a few credits into 1942 and it was so much fun even though I don't remember the game being so tough!

Cabinets pictured left to right: Ghosts 'n' Goblins, 1942, Street Fighter II, Samurai Showdown.

Under Defeat HD - New Update

2011-11-09T04:28:00.000-08:00

I wrote last month about the recent announcement from G.Rev about a port of Under Defeat on the PS3/360 early next year.

http://gmintyfresh.blogspot.com/2011/10/under-defeat-hd-ps3360.htm

More details about the release emerged yesterday:

G.rev is pleased to announce Under Defeat HD for the XBox 360 & PS3!!

Under Defeat HD
Platform: XBox 360, PS3
Release Date: Spring 2011
Genre: Vertical-scrolling shoot'em up
Price: Regular Edition - 5,600 yen (5,880 yen, tax included)
Limited Edition - 7,980 yen (8,379 yen, tax included)
Limited Edition includes the official strategy DVD and soundtrack (CD) + special packaging

Classic helicopter shoot'em up Under Defeat storms to gaming front lines in 2012. First released in 2005 for arcades, the later Dreamcast version has since become a premium item. G.rev has been very thankful for the high level of demand from fans to bring the game to a next gen console, and we are pleased to present details on the XBox 360 & PS3 ports.

■ Destructive Realism
Rumbling tank suspensions. Explosions and flumes of smoke. Trees blown back with the blasts.
Under Defeat pushed to the limits of the Dreamcast's graphics quality, presenting the battlefield in full 3D with realistic detail. Though the gameplay stays true to the simplicity of a traditional 2D-shooter, Under Defeat's expressionism allows gamers to indulge in the pleasure of blowing digital things up.

■ All new Remix Mode
Under Defeat HD is not just a port of the original title. In addition to the arcade version, the all new Remix Mode (temporary name) makes full use of 16:9 televisions. More details to come, so stay tuned.

■ Limited Reproduction Edition
UD HD will be available in regular and limited edition versions.
The limited edition includes:
1) Kami ・ Strategy DVD*. Video of expert game play and HOW TO tutorial for the arcade version
2) NEW ORDER Soundtrack (temporary title). Rising game music composer Yosuke Yasui of Super Sweep, who worked on titles such as Mamoru-kun is Cursed! and Eschatos, brings his talent to make a renewed Under Defeat soundtrack!
3) Plus! Special Limited Edition box featuring an original illustration by character designer Nanashiki Yamamoto

Fans will also be happy to hear that the game package design of the limited edition will be based on the original Dreamcast limited edition design!

■ More news to come!
We will be back in a few days with more details on the limited edition, Remix Mode and more!!

*The Kami ・ Strategy DVD includes re-edited footage used in INH's INSANITY DVD THE SOLDIER OF FORTUNE "UNDER DEFEAT" (published by TEAM ENTERTAINMENT, April 2011).

Games I'm Playing Today - 09/11/2011

2011-11-09T03:52:00.000-08:00

I'm currently switching between the following games:

Darksiders - PS3, Such an underrated game I love my slash em ups and this is a classic. I like the building of the character in this one with each power up there is a sense your character is becoming more god-like. Interesting graphical style too.

GT5 - PS3, Picked up the collectors edition last week and I'm completely blown away by the sheer amount of cars and how many events there are to take place in. Seems to be a bit more accessible than some of the previous incarnations too. One of the worst install times I've ever seen though, pathetic

Radient Silvergun HD - Still stunnning! Treasure must be applauded for the qulaity of the port, there's a lot of game here for 1200 points. I love the inclusion of the Saturn version is here in all it's greatness as well as the stripped down arcade port. The enhanced graphics in the arcade version look stunning too. Makes me want Treasure to release that original 360 shooter they started working on - Project RS3.

Sturmwind Limited Edition Confirmed!

2011-11-04T06:49:00.000-07:00

Confirmation today that the Limited Edition of Sturmwind does indeed exist and is available to buy on the Redspotgames internet site, it looks lovely.

Oh yes and of course I've ordered this!!

Standard Edition - Pictured Above

Limited Edition

http://www.redspotgames.com/shop/index.php?act=viewProd&productId=34

http://www.redspotgames.com/

New 360 Shmup Pickup!!

2011-10-28T07:45:00.000-07:00

Just picked up a Limited Edition that I thought I'd never get due to the fact copies of the game just don't crop up that often - Senko No Ronde Rev. X

I'll post photos when it arrives!

Under Defeat HD - PS3/360?

2011-10-26T06:19:00.000-07:00

Rumours have surfaced again that this amazing G.Rev shooter is going to be released, presumably on PSN/XBL:

http://www.siliconera.com/2011/10/25/under-defeat-hd-means-one-more-shooter-for-ps3/
This story first circulated about 4 or 5 months ago but the inclusion of a potential release date and G.Rev's recent slightly cryptic facebook posts makes me think there might be some truth to this.

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Grev-Ltd/194052213944305

There's a thread up on System 11 too with a bit more info

Ikaruga the Model Kit Part 2

2011-10-24T07:54:00.000-07:00

The black version of the Ikaruga model kit (Hitekkai) was released today, I'll put some photos up when my copy arrives. Again like the white version there's some lovely original artwork on the outer box.

Gunlord - New Neo Geo/DC Game

2011-10-24T03:33:00.000-07:00

Gunlord the latest game from NG:DEV.TEAM has been announced for a while but preorders opened today:
http://www.ngdevdirect.com/index.php
http://www.ngdevteam.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=91:pre-order-for-gunlord-aes-and-all-dreamcast-&catid=1:latest-news
The game looks similar to Turrican but with a Japanese slant:

I think the game looks gorgeous you can find more screen shots here on the official site: http://www.gun-lord.com/screens.html
Developer overview:
GunLord is a Eurostyle Platformer with emphasis on exploring huge worlds and blasting off enemies. This game features 8 stages of exciting 2D game play with over 45 unique enemy types. Blast yourself through giant landscapes, explore caverns and reveal all secrets!!
Release: NEO·GEO™ MVS December 2011, Dreamcast™ 2012, NEO·GEO™ AES 2012
Game
8 Huge Stages
16-bit Hand-drawn Graphics
Non-linear action with 8-way scrolling
Big Bad Boss Enemies
Constant 60 fps
Internet Ranking via Code

Accessories (DC)
VMU
VGA
Original Pad
Acade Stick

Hardware Specs (MVS)
MVS Multi Slot Compatible (MVS)*
Full use of 624 Megabits
30+ min. Full Digitized Stereo Soundtrack
In-System Software Updates via USB Port
Custom made PCBs

Hardware Specs (AES)
NEO·GEO AES Compatible (AES)
Full use of 624 Megabits
30+ min. Full Digitized Stereo Soundtrack
Custom made PCBs

* MVS cart also works with Super MVS Converter II on AES
I must admit that it think the boxart is stunning and the English AES version is really nicely put together:

Having rpeviosly order games from the company I know they put a lot of love into their releases and their packages are always of a high standard. Personally preordered the DC LE Dragon Box version this morning:

Can't wait!!
Gameplay vid now up: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HohDEQpIRMw&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Recent Arrival - Qubed

2011-10-21T04:42:00.000-07:00

I've been after this US exclusive compilation for a while now and it's a game that has been tricky to find at a reasonable price. The game disk contains the previous XBL releases REZHD, LUMINES, and EVERY EXTEND EXTRA EXTREME. It's one of those titles that is probably dirt cheap over the other side of the pond but hard to get over here without paying the stupid postage charges this game seems to command on ebay. Anyway the game is in nearly new condition and cost £12.58 including P&P (you could probably get it a bit cheaper with some patience). I can confirm that Qubed works perfectly on a Jap 360 and there's a nice interview with the game designer (his name escapes me at the moment) included on the disk. At the moment I'm completely addicted to Every Extend Extra Extreme, I like the way they've expanded the original concept into an insane and tactical shooter/puzzle game. REZ HD looks stunning, I really like the lick of paint that the game has had and I think it might be one of those rare games that benefits from a HD makeover. I'm a huge Lumines fan and whilst the 360 port is cool there's something about the game that lends itself to the handheld format better, maybe it's because the control seems sharper? In short the compilation is a great showcase for the amazing work that Q Entertainment have done over the years, frankly I'm really not sure why this didn't get a PAL release a great value package. 8/10

I think this may be the last of the compilations I need to pick up with XBL shooters released in a physical format but I'm always on the lookout.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/53666013@N02/6264454177/in/photostream
http://www.flickr.com/photos/53666013@N02/6264984454/in/photostream/

Nano Assault

2011-10-13T08:59:00.000-07:00

Release day rapidly approaches, must admit this may be the game that makes me take the plunge and get a 3DS.

I'm big fan of Shinen's previous shooter releases - Iridion 2, Nanastray 1 and 2.

The game is touted as a spiritual sequel to the Nanostray series:

"Stop the deadly Nanostray virus from spreading and contaminating civilization in Nano Assault, a fast-paced action shooter set within a visually stunning cellular system that leaps off the screen in full 3D. Control your microscopic Nanite ship inside the dangerous virus to fight off infections, navigate through alien cell clusters, battle bosses, and ultimately analyze and destroy the virus' core to save humanity.
Find, analyze, and destroy the Nanostray virus DNA with your Nanite vessel.
Harness the power of multiple weapons: Powerful Beams that lock onto enemies for instant impact; Energetic Bombs explode upon impact and launch devastating projectiles; Spins rotate around enemies in energy-draining orbs
Blast your way through 32 twisted cell stages and dark worlds with rugged landscapes that self-adjust in difficulty based on how you play.
Battle and defeat 10 extreme bosses including the Black Nucleus, Hyper Blobs, and Spore Plants to collect secondary weapons including lightning chains, electric flashes that destroy everything in close proximity, and the quick and powerful laser.
Test your skills in "Boss Rush" mode and battle bosses back-to-back!
Stunning gameplay aesthetic is set in a distinctive electron microscope inspired world.
Ignite purifying blasts to clear infections by collecting power-ups that defeated enemies leave behind.
Respawn and clone yourself along the journey to ensure successful missions. AutoSaving is available after each stage or section.
Extra features include Missions Mode, an unlockable arcade style cell stage where you must destroy enemies against a time counter trying to get the highest score, and Hall of Fame where you can publish your level scores and compare them with friends online.
Detailed enemy Nanopedia lets you unlock information containing strengths, weaknesses, and strategies to defeat them."

Trailer can be found here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGkYxVNuXtU&feature=youtu.be

Dark Souls Limited Edition PAL

2011-10-07T03:32:00.001-07:00

Watch "Dark Souls Limited Edition PAL - PS3" on YouTube

The Great Ocean Commander - An Adventure on the High Seas

2011-09-26T08:42:00.001-07:00

Article to follow

Watch "Stuff Ive Bought Recently - Ocean Commander PS2" on YouTube

Gears of War 3 Limited Edition

2011-09-22T03:15:00.001-07:00

Gears of War 3 - Limited Edition - YouTube

Definition of a Euroshup

2011-07-20T04:34:00.000-07:00

I was asked recently to define the term "euroshmup", here's what ~I came up with:

Broadly euroshmup is a derogatory term for a shooter (normally but not exclusively a horizontal scroller), that looks really slick and polished but has some facet of gameplay that is broken.

By far the main problems are usually asosciated with the balance of the game:

Enemies being too tough and weapons too week

A vast amount of different weapons to choose from but fundamentally they all have the same affect

Punishing reset points

Loss of weapons at death makes continuing the game almost impossible.

Classic examples: Blood Money, X2, Soldner-X

What do you think? Is there anything you would add?

Sturmwind - New Release Date (All the ones)

2011-07-14T04:27:00.000-07:00

Just a quick post to let you know that it appears that Redspotgames stunning looking DC shmup appears to have a firm release date of 11/11/11 rather than the vague quarter 2 release date previously released.

A great date for bingo and DC fans out there!

Strangely the shop page still refers to the QTR 2 release date.

http://sturmwind.duranik.com/order.htm
http://www.redspotgames.com/shop/index.php?act=viewProd&productId=19

Shooting Update

2011-06-27T05:20:00.000-07:00

As I'm sat here sweltering in the summer heat time for a quick touch base about what I'm up to at the moment:

1. I'm eagerly awaiting the delivery of the new Ikaruga scale model that was released in Japan last week. It is an amazing looking set and I belive it's already painted!!

2. Picked up game 12 for the 14 shmups project, Cotton 2 LTD Edition with Tea Cup. Looks like I've secured a copy of Harmful Park too. Just got that bloody GleyLancer to source now!

3. I seem to be spending a lot of time scouring shops in Leeds for PS3 exclusives at the moment - there are some real bargains to be had out there. Wipeout HD Fury and Resistance 2 being two recent examples of pickups.

4. I've got a bucket loads of videos filmed, the great edit-fest starts tonight!

Geoff

Newest Pickups 20/06/2011

2011-06-20T03:39:00.001-07:00

A couple of interesting pickups over the last few days:

R-Type Leo marquee arrived last week, really pleased with this one and it didn't even cost a £10, for a future project........

Picked up the Tatsunoko Vs Capcom Arcade stick from HMV on Saturday for a crispy £20, wow what an amazing stick it just so sturdy! I take back (nearly) everything I've said about Madkatz over the years.
I bought this to play virtual console games and I can assure you that it works brilliantly on MUSHA!!

Strike Witches Limited Edition

2011-06-10T02:34:00.000-07:00

Arrived yesterday, will expand this post when I get home tonight.

List of Shmups that will be at E3

2011-06-06T08:15:00.000-07:00

Radient Silvergun for XBL and erm that's it......... :D

List of Shmups I'm Seeking

2011-05-31T09:55:00.000-07:00

I've been using this working list for a while to monitor which shmups I want to collect.

Not an exhaustive list by any means and there are a few non-shmups in there too. Also with a few scrappy condition notes:

Title Format Notes (if applicable)
Radirgy GC Must be in good nick
Senko No Ronde Rev.X Limited 360 First run edition with art cards
Shooting Love 200x 360 First print edition with soundtrack
Dodonpachi Resurrection Black Label 360
Gigawing DC Complete and good condition
Ikaruga Sega Direct Version DC Comes with a mouse mat or some such shite!
Any DC shmup special Edition DC
Any DC Sega Direct Except Radirgy or Karous DC
Ketsui DS Complete, not bothered if its reprint version
R-Type 2 Gameboy Jap version complete
Nemesis 2 Gameboy Jap or PAL preferably complete
Ikaruga GC US version
Robo Aleste Mega CD
Gleylancer Megadrive Complete
Phelios Megadrive
V-V Megadrive Look for US version Grind Stormer too
Elemental Master Megadrive
MUSHA Megadrive Needs to be tiptop condition, consider US release
Kuuga Vapor Trail Megadrive
Steel Empire Megadrive Must be Jap version
Bio Ship Paladin Megadrive
Fire Mustang Megadrive
Fire Shark Megadrive
Insector X Megadrive
R-Type MSX Cartridge version, great artwork
Star Soldier N64
Ghost Pilots NEO GEO AES
Pulstar/Blazing Star NEO GEO AES Will always be too expensive - watch out for MVS conversions
Tatsujin PC Engine
Gate of Thunder PC Engine
Final Blaster PC Engine
Override PC Engine
Star Parodier PC Engine
Armed F PC Engine
Deep Blue PC Engine Needs to be cheap notoriously bad
Heavy Unit PC Engine Try and get cheap very difficult
P-47 PC Engine
1941 Counter Strike PC Engine
Final Blaster PC Engine
Raiden PC Engine
Cloud Master Chuka Taisen PC Engine
1943 Kai PC Engine
Cyber Core PC Engine
Coryoon PC Engine Uncommon
Metamor Jupiter PC Engine
Saint Dragon PC Engine
Rayxanber III PC Engine CD Preferably complete
L-Dis PC Engine CD
Sapphire PC Engine CD Will always be too expensive, check out PSP version
Geppy - X PS1 Any condition
R-Type Delta PS1 JAP edition
Soukyugurentai PS1
Oretachi Geasen Zoku - Sonic Wings PS2 Must be complete
Thunderforce 6 PS2 First Print Edition with Extras
R-Type Command 2 PSP
Star Soldier PSP
Sengoku Aces 3 PSP
Darius Burst PSP
Strikers 1945 Plus PSP
Platypus PSP
Skull Fang Saturn With bonus disk
Donpachi Saturn Not bothered about spine
Gun Frontier Saturn Not bothered about spine
Planet Joker Saturn Must be cheap as the game is notoriously awful
Steam Hearts Saturn Must include spine and be not too expensive
Cotton 2 Saturn Must be teacup version and have all the extras
Shienryu Saturn
Prikura Daisakusen Saturn Must be complete with all extras
Thunderforce V Special Edition Saturn Looking for complete, also looking for budget Satacore? VersionFantasy Zone Saturn
Kyuukyoko Tiger 2 Saturn
Silhouette Mirage Saturn
Darius Gaiden Saturn
Keio Flying Squadron 2 Saturn
3 Wonders Saturn Comes under the Arcade Gears banner
Super Dimension Macross Saturn
Capcom Generations 1 Saturn Complete
Gekirindan Saturn
Image Fight/X-Multiply Saturn X-Multiply is awesome
R-Type Sega Mark 3 Version
Power Strike 2 Sega Master System
Super R-Type SNES US version
Macross Scrambled Valkyrie SNES Complete, replacement for loose cart version - nice artwork
Judgement Silversword Wonderswan
Milestone Shooting Collection Wii
Illvelo Wii
Mamoru-Kun Wa Norowarete Shimatta! Limited Editon PS3

(Click on Picture for Larger Version)

Thanks @Gunhead

2011-05-27T04:23:00.001-07:00

Thanks to Gunhead aka Amidststorm for pointing me in the direction of this slightly obscure euro PAL release. This compilation disk containing 3 XBL games (and one DLC) as a physical release. For 360 shmup fans this game is of particular interest because it contains the tremendous Geometry Wars 2. I picked this up for the princely sum of £4 brand new from Ebay. Will post some nicer photos next week.

Amiga "Backups"

2011-05-25T14:03:00.000-07:00

I've promised this list for a long time for one of my youtube buddies ash, you can check his channel out here: ash81b4u sorry for the delay mate:

Dragon Ninja
Galactic Rats
Monopoly Deluxe
Gazzas Soccer
World Trophy Soccer
Ork Disk 1 + 2
Micro Golf 2
Baal
Winzip
Dynablaster
Argonaut
Jump N Roll
Addams Family
Navy Seals
Myth Disk 1, 2, + 3
Arcadia
The Mad Show
Carnage
Mercenary, Virus, Star Wars, Empire Strikes Back
Mega-Ball
Alien Breed Disk 1 + 2
St. Dragon
Frogger, Tornado
Graham Gooch Cricket
Wings Disk 1 + 2
Chuck Rock Disk 1 + 2
Dizzy Collection
Pacman 87
Ishar 2, Snakes, Wibble World Giddy
First Samurai Disk 1 + 2
Subbuteo
Amazing Spiderman

Well these were the copies that were included with the Amiga I purchased, there were some original titles too - there are a few gems but also quite a bit of shite!!

Geoff

Stuff I've Bought Recently - Insane PS3 Limited Editions

2011-05-22T16:05:00.000-07:00

Hello Chaps

Just thought I’d post a link to my newest youtube vid showing a couple of over the top PS3 limited editions I bought earlier on in the year. This is the first vid I filmed using my new HD camcorder, it came out quite nice. The JVC software that came bundled with the camera is a bit lame and so I’m going to have to get a better Mts to Wmv converter at some point. There were a few errors in this vid but overall I’m quite happy with it.

Geoff

Gmintyfresh on Youtube - The Future

2011-05-18T03:40:00.000-07:00

I've just realised that title seems quite final, like I'm making an announcement that the channel is going to shut down - I can assure you this Isn't the case.

Over the last few weeks I've been re-enthused about pulling together my Youtube vids, in fact I'd go as far as saying I'm really enjoying it!

So this is my chance to take stock of some old/new video ideas I need to get started:

1. Guide to games shops in Leeds
2. Beginners guide to 360 importing
3. Finish room tour
4. Dreamcast shmup collection retrospective
5. I've retired the Saturn Shooter collection series of vids - It was always going to be a useful testing bed for a bigger project I had planned, in that respect it was successful. This bigger project is a series of vids looking at my shmup collection in detail - I'm going try and script these and put as much information in as possible.
6. Some kind of interview session with real gamers.
7. Dreamcast Fighting Games Video - I've been meaning to start this project for ages because I've nearly got as many DC fighters as Shmups
8. 360 Limited Editions - Got loads of these I want to show too.
Hopefully I'll start on these soon!

14 Shmups, 12 Months, £1200 - May Games

2011-05-16T02:52:00.000-07:00

I really can't believe it's been ten months since I started this project, I'm really glad I actually stuck to with this adventure - trust me I nearly bailed a few times due to the sheer cost of acquiring these games! I knew towards the end of this project that I'd have to double up twice in the monthly purchases to reach the full 14 games to the 12 month deadline. So here I am now with 2 months to go and 3 games to buy.

Gigawing 2 and Blast Wind both arrived over the weekend and typically for games imported from Japan the games were solidly wrapped and were in completely pristine condition - no CEX atrocities here thank god!

Gigawing 2 feels similar to the original but in some ways it's also very different, it's certainly a lot more manic and tough. The reflecting mechanic from the original has also been taken to new levels in the game. I'm editing a video that should be up either today or tomorrow anyway.

As for Blast Wind I'm going to have a play on this tonight and I can't wait.

14 Shmups, 12 Games, £1200 - Update

2011-05-10T03:36:00.000-07:00

After the last post about this project I'm happy to say that I've acquired 2 more games towards the final target, as always I'll talk about these purchases here first:

Giga Wing 2

Was winning a copy on Ebay for about a week at about £20 but entered into a mini bidding war with another bidder about 1 hour before the auction ended. Managed to win this little bugger for £32 but I really thought I could pick it up a little cheaper - ah well I've got it now! This price was still cheaper than the £44 estimate I had on the game so it's not all bad. OH YES AND MY DC SHMUP COLLECTION IS NOW COMPLETE!!!! A DC retrospective vid will be forthcoming in the next few weeks.

Blast Wind

Finally won a copy of this at a non ridiculously silly price of £68 inc P+P, again I won this under my estimate of £75 - which in the current climate was a tough one to work to. Really looking forward to this one.

14 Shmups, 12 Months, £1200 Current Position

2011-05-06T04:22:00.000-07:00

Latest Update

Well after much stalling April's project video finally published yesterday, man the video was a trial to put together.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LJhbaIBiljo&feature=youtube_gdata_player

To be honest I'd done most of the time consuming stuff such as capturing the gameplay footage and editing that but real life has just been getting in the way recently. But I'm back with a much more positive attitude about the whole thing. I've got one of the next games lined up by the look of it but I'm going to have to bite the bullet and buy something really expensive this month.......

Still to get:

Gigawing 2 - DC

Trying to find this for less than £30 with spine has been tough, it's not rare by any stretch of the imagination but it suffers from the curse of being a DC game and a shooter. Ebay sellers crank the prices up on this game. It's funny I played this the first time at Retro Rewind with SpiffierRabbit and Oli_Lar from the Retro Gamer forum, great day and great company. More inportantly however is that this shooter represents the last DC shooter I need to buy for a full shmup collection. My mission to collect shmups in general spwawned from thios collection so it'll be quite a watershed moment for my collection when I finally complete this set.

Cotton 2 SE with Calendar and Tea Cup - Saturn

One I want in the collection purely for the beans - I mean as a Special Edition it's ridiculous right? What's doubly daft is that I turned down a copy of the standard edition for £15 once! But the game itself looks lovely so at least Im going to play this one! I expect to pay around £80 for this one.

Blast Wind - Saturn

Another Saturn Technosoft exclusive! For some reason when I started the project this shooter was quite modestly priced (£50-£60) but over the last 9 months the price has slowly risen. I suspect this is because at the moment there doesn't seem to be as many copies out there, this game seems to divide shmup fans - whilst it might not be the prettiest shooter out there I love it's unique visuals they make me think Mars Matrix on the DC. I'm probably looking at around £80 -£90 for this one now.

GleyLancer - MD

One of the first games I bookmarked on ebay when starting this project and the one that has maintained it's high price for longest, to be honest with this one I'm going to be lucky to get it for less than £90. It just rarely comes up on ebay to bid for and it's generally listed as buy it now in auctions - so the prices are really maintained at the same level. I really love this game however so I'm more than willing to part with the cash for this.

Harmful Park - PS1

The daddy!!

I suspect this one could be the most expensive game on the list, to get a nice copy with a spinecard on ebay you're looking at at least £130! Another shooter that was a good £20 cheaper on average when I started the project, there just aren't that many copies around. This is probably the game I'm most curious about it looks like a Parodius game with equally over the top boss battles.

So now it's time to stop writing and get hunting those dream shmups!!

To understand what I’m attempting to achieve with this project do please see the previous blog entry here:

http://gmintyfresh.blogspot.com/2010/07/12-months-14-shmups-1200.html

Current status

Blast Wind - Sega Saturn
Harmful Park - Playstation 1
Radiant Silvergun - Sega Saturn (Bought)
Ibara - Playstation 2 (Bought)
Mushihimesama Futari Ltd Edition - Xbox 360 (Bought)
GlayLancer - Megadrive
Gigawing 2 - Dreamcast
Zero Gunner 2 - Dreamcast (Bought)
Twinkle Star Sprites - Dreamcast (Bought)
Last Resort - NEO GEO AES (Bought)
Cotton 2 - With Tea Cup - Saturn
Soldier Blade - PC Engine (Bought)
Hyper Duel Sega - Saturn (Bought)
Deathsmiles 2 Limited Edition - Xbox 360 (Bought)

2011-05-03T05:51:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone

Been away the last few weekends so not much YT action from me recently I'm going to try and film a few this week.

14 Shmups, 12 Months, £1200 #9 Twinkle Star Sprites

April 360 Shmup Madness #3 - Ototmedius Excellent

Another Stuff I've bought recently vid - A priority because I've got loads to show.

I Picked up an uncommon Saturn shooter this week called Wolf Fang, it's a fairly nice mech based shooter by Data East converted by Xing. The game is one of the sequels to vapor trail and and I've only seen the Saturn version a couple on times on eBay so I was really pleased to pick it up for £25! I've seen quite a few copies of the PS1 version but as always the Sat version is the one to have! Nearly picked up a copy of Planet Joker also - I know it's supposed to be one of the worst shmups of all time but it was really cheap.

Yet more new 360 shmups have kept me busy too namely Otomedius Excellent and Trouble Witches Neo:

Otomedius Excellent - Much the same as the previous game in the series but I think it's better. More characters, more level variation, unlockable weapons for the powerup system, and more interesting boss encounters. A special mention should be made about the soundtrack, it's pure Parodious you'd love picking out where some of those tunes came from!

Trouble Witches - I wasn't expecting much from the XBL download going by the reviews I've seen of it - boy I was wrong what a lovely little shooter for 800 points. Think Deathsmiles mixed with a large dollop of Cotton, it even feels a bit like the PS3/PC doujin release Gundemonium - but a lot nicer.

Geoff

Musings of the Mad – 02/02/11

2011-02-02T06:45:00.001-08:00

So with a sense of dread I finally took the plunge and joined the world of Red Dead Redemption last night. I say dread approaching RDR not for any inadequacies the game may possess but for the fact that I know what starting this game means for me on a personal level. It means compulsion to the point of distraction to fully explore and conquer this game to the exclusion of all others. I’ve resisted one of my friends constant questioning of why I haven’t started the game because it's so good (Mark, a guy I know with a wealth of gaming knowledge rates it as his favourite game of all time!) and the rave reviews from the gaming press.

I‘ve been resisting the lesson history has taught me, that GTA 4 you stole my life!! Quite simply recently I’ve been juggling and completing some of the great games that have been released over the last 6 months, if I’d started RDR all those great games and experiences would have been left by the wayside. When playing GTA on release I didn’t play anything else till I’d completed the game and all the side missions that I wanted to. Having briefly wandered around the world of RDR I can tell the game has the same depth and magic that inhabits its older brother, all within it’s own epic game world.

So yes I’m glad that I cleared the boards and made time for this game because it’s going to be a long ride.

Geoff

12 Months, 14 Shmups, £1200 – Game #6

2011-01-31T13:51:00.000-08:00

Mushihimesama Futari Limited Edition

To understand what I’m attempting to achieve with this project do please see the previous blog entry here:

http://gmintyfresh.blogspot.com/2010/07/12-months-14-shmups-1200.html

January

Above: the limited edition of Mushihemesama contains a double sized CD soundtrack with beautiful cover.
Above: the download card was used in the copy I bought but I didn't mind as long it was included.

Above: other side of the spine card and the lovely artwork included on the two soundtrack CDs

Another great 360 shooter I missed on release due to a lack of funds, a really beautiful looking game with some of the nicest artwork included in a Cave game. I clawed some of the money back I lost with the additional duty paid on Zero Gunner 2 last month with this purchase

I budgeted to spend around £90 on this and I actually bought it for £66 so I was really happy with the purchase. The game had seriously been loved because it was in pristine condition and the seller had even kept the sticker that was attached to the cover of the cellophane - I wish that all sellers were this loving to their games. This LE set is uses the familiar format that Cave have adopted with their special releases, an oversized box with the game in the bottom and the soundtrack in a little cardboard holder on the top. Unusally the soundtrack is a double feature and includes arranged scores for both Mushihimesama and Mushihimesama Futari. The artwork for the Mushi series has always been stunning and this is no exception as you can see. The game actually plays really nicely and is less hardcore than it's predecessor - but is equally gorgeous looking. Mind you crank the game up onto ultra and you know about it, phew it's tough!!

In short a really welcome addition to my shmup collection!!

Geoff

Current status

Blast Wind - Sega Saturn
Harmful Park - Playstation 1
Radiant Silvergun - Sega Saturn (Bought)
Ibara - Playstation 2
Mushihimesama Futari Ltd Edition - Xbox 360 (Bought)
GlayLancer - Megadrive
Gigawing 2 - Dreamcast
Zero Gunner 2 - Dreamcast (Bought)
Twinkle Star Sprites - Dreamcast
Last Resort - NEO GEO AES (Bought)
Cotton 2 - With Tea Cup - Saturn
Soldier Blade - PC Engine
Hyper Duel Sega - Saturn (Bought)
Deathsmiles 2 Limited Edition - Xbox 360 (Bought)

Fast Striker

2011-01-10T03:28:00.000-08:00

Wow finally played my copy Fast Striker yesterday, well Geoff got off his arse and picked the game up from the post depot.

My initial thoughts about the game are very positive, as usual NGDEVTEAM have put together a very professional product. The main cause for celebration can be taken from the quality of the gameplay. The developer has obviously spent some time in conjunction with shmup and arcade gamers tweeking the balance to get the game as perfect as possible (theres a really nice chaining system that's not too punishing either).

Processing a youtube vid at this very moment with my first thoughts.

Standard and Limited Editions

Limited Edition Cover

Special Edition Contents

Standard Edition Cover

Sitting in the Reg #7

12 Months, 14 Shmups, £1200 – Game #5

2010-12-29T04:53:00.000-08:00

To understand what I’m attempting to achieve with this project do please see the previous blog entry here:

http://gmintyfresh.blogspot.com/2010/07/12-months-14-shmups-1200.html

December Part 1

Another month another game, this month is going to be a two parter for December. Now this project is not just about getting those expensive games it's also about getting the games I want for my collection. Zero Gunner 2 represents finishing my complete DC Shmup collection, before starting this project I was 3 games away from achieveing this. I've partially completed a youtube vid showing the game and what I think about it but my first impressions are very, very, good. It might not have the kudos of Ikaruga or Border Down but it's every much their equal!! Just to note I got stung with import duty on this bugger - a first for an import game damn it! Would have been an amazing bargain otherwise, still it is mint condition. See you soon in Part 2.

Geoff

Current status

Blast Wind - Sega Saturn
Harmful Park - Playstation 1
Radiant Silvergun - Sega Saturn (Bought)
Ibara - Playstation 2
Mushihimesama Futari Ltd Edition - Xbox 360
GlayLancer - Megadrive
Gigawing 2 - Dreamcast
Zero Gunner 2 - Dreamcast (Bought)
Twinkle Star Sprites - Dreamcast
Last Resort - NEO GEO AES (Bought)
Cotton 2 - With Tea Cup - Saturn
Soldier Blade - PC Engine
Hyper Duel Sega - Saturn (Bought)
Deathsmiles 2 Limited Edition - Xbox 360 (Bought)

12 Months, 14 Shmups, £1200 – Game #4

2010-11-27T03:26:00.000-08:00

To understand what I’m attempting to achieve with this project do please see the previous blog entry here:

http://gmintyfresh.blogspot.com/2010/07/12-months-14-shmups-1200.html

Phew it's catch up time! It's been ages since I posted, but in the meantime I've bought so many great shmups. I'm covered on this project with games till February, there have been some ups and some downs but as always it's been interesting! So I picked the mighty Radiant Silvergun at the beginning of November for £90.50 including P+P which was about a tenner cheaper than I expected and it's in great nick. The game looks amazing with one of the best anime intros I've seen in a shooter, the weapons system seems very complex, and I can tell it's going to to take soem time to get a grips with. It's a great day for my shmup collection!

Current status

Blast Wind - Sega Saturn
Harmful Park - Playstation 1
Radiant Silvergun - Sega Saturn (Bought)
Ibara - Playstation 2
Mushihimesama Futari Ltd Edition - Xbox 360
GlayLancer - Megadrive
Gigawing 2 - Dreamcast
Zero Gunner 2 - Dreamcast
Twinkle Star Sprites - Dreamcast
Last Resort - NEO GEO AES (Bought)
Cotton 2 - With Tea Cup - Saturn
Soldier Blade - PC Engine
Hyper Duel Sega - Saturn (Bought)
Deathsmiles 2 Limited Edition - Xbox 360 (Bought)

12 Months, 14 Shmups, £1200 – Game #3

2010-09-28T04:12:00.000-07:00

To understand what I’m attempting to achieve with this project do please see the previous blog entry here:

http://gmintyfresh.blogspot.com/2010/07/12-months-14-shmups-1200.html

The 3rd game in the project was secured today, missed out on a few nicely priced copies of Radiant Silvergun and was going to settle on a copy of Soldier Blade for the PC Engine. I'd put a £100 offer in on a copy of Last Duel last month and had it turned down, I had a last ditch £115 offer on the same game and to my surprise it was accepted!! It's a complete copy and looks like it's in tip top condition, it was bloody expensive (over my estimate) but still the cheapest copy for the condition.

I could have the game by the weekend and I can't wait play it.

Current status

Blast Wind - Sega Saturn
Harmful Park - Playstation 1
Radiant Silvergun - Sega Saturn
Ibara - Playstation 2
Mushihimesama Futari Ltd Edition - Xbox 360
GlayLancer - Megadrive
Gigawing 2 - Dreamcast
Zero Gunner 2 - Dreamcast
Twinkle Star Sprites - Dreamcast
Last Resort - NEO GEO AES (Bought)
Cotton 2 - With Tea Cup - Saturn
Soldier Blade - PC Engine
Hyper Duel Sega - Saturn (Bought)
Deathsmiles 2 Limited Edition - Xbox 360 (Bought)

The hunt begins and there might even be some spare money in the war chest for a bonus buy!

Bullet Soul - 360

2010-09-01T01:45:00.000-07:00

A seriously great time for 360 shmup fans, another shooter announced!

Bullet Soul:

http://5pb.jp/games/bulletsoul/

A shooter developed by the company that did the ports Ketsui and Dodonpachi Dai Ou Jou on the 360 - 5pb

It's rumoured to be heavily Cave influenced, more news when I have it!

Available for preorder at Play-Asia:

http://www.play-asia.com/Bullet_Soul/paOS-13-71-br-49-en-70-3y5h.html

12 Months, 14 Shmups, £1200 – Game #2

2010-08-31T08:41:00.000-07:00

To understand what I’m attempting to achieve with this project do please see the previous blog entry here:

http://gmintyfresh.blogspot.com/2010/07/12-months-14-shmups-1200.html

2nd game bought today, Last Resort on the AES. Took a bit of scouring to find this shmup at a reasonable price and with some confidence it was an original, not a pirate or an converted MVS cart. There was also a few tatty examples and even one from a seller that bore no responsibility for any damage or loss even though he wouldn't sent the game out recorded. The game cost £118 including P&P.

Expect a new video 1-2 weeks.

Current status

Blast Wind - Sega Saturn
Harmful Park - Playstation 1
Radiant Silvergun - Sega Saturn
Ibara - Playstation 2
Mushihimesama Futari Ltd Edition - Xbox 360
GlayLancer - Megadrive
Gigawing 2 - Dreamcast
Zero Gunner 2 - Dreamcast
Twinkle Star Sprites - Dreamcast
Last Resort - NEO GEO AES - Bought
Cotton 2 - With Tea Cup - Saturn
Soldier Blade - PC Engine
DeathSmiles 2 Limited Edition - Xbox 360 (Bought)
Hyper Duel Sega - Saturn

The hunt begins and there might even be some spare money in the war chest for a bonus buy!

(iPod) Dodonpahi Resurrection - First Thoughts

2010-08-26T04:17:00.000-07:00

I downloaded Dodonpachi Resurrection for the IPOD today, I know it's not the 360 game but i'll give an indication of how well the game transfers home. For a start it's only £2.99 for the first four days of release. The game still employs the autofire system from Espgaluda 2 which works quite well, be careful though I suspect you'll either like it or loathe it - you can try the Lite version first. When the game loaded up I was amazed by the graphics, it really is a good looking game with completely over the top graphics and screens full of bullet hell! The game seems to work better on the ipod than the ESP2 because the game is a little bit simpler with less botton presses needed and suiting touch screen control. A special mention should be given to the soundtrack, it's really over the top and sounds brilliant suiting the pace of the game perfectly.

You can tell the game is slightly stripped down port of the arcade version as there isn't quite as much happening onscreen, but this coversion bodes very well for the Cave 360 port.

360 Shmup Preorders

2010-08-23T02:34:00.000-07:00

Over the last few weeks there has been a bumper list of 360 shmups announced, most are actually already available for preorder!

Pink Sweets/Muchi Muchi Pork - Not Available But Listed

http://www.play-asia.com/paOS-13-71-br-49-en-70-3xkm.html

Dodonpchi Resurrection + Limited Edition - Available for Preorder. Preordered!
http://www.play-asia.com/paOS-13-71-br-49-en-70-3xkw.html

Radirgy Noa Massive - Available for Preorder. PrPreordered

http://www.play-asia.com/paOS-13-71-br-49-en-70-3x41.html

Senko No Ronde Duo Limited Edition 17/08/10

2010-08-17T16:08:00.001-07:00

Turned up today and it did come all the way from Japan really quickly, it's got an amazing art nouveau cover. Can't wait to give it a go.

MORE 360 Shooters!!

2010-08-16T03:24:00.000-07:00

Huge announcements from the Cave at the 360 shooting festival this weekend!!

As suspected with the announcement of Dodonpachi Dai Fukkatsu on the iPad a 360 port of the most recent arcade version (v1.5) has been confirmed for 25/11/2010! I've been waiting for this port for ages because the most recent Dodonpachi game looks insane and cranks the bullet hell and an overpowered player ship up to new levels
There will be a limited edition version with an arrange CD and preorder download card

A quite obscure and strange Cave shooter called Dangun Feveron (check it on MAME) is getting a port for release in 2011 probably on XBLA.

And another biggie Muchi Muchi Pork and Pink Sweets Ibara are getting a double pack release in Spring 2011 - the best shmup compilation ever?

Youtube 300 Sub Competition

2010-08-15T15:46:00.000-07:00

NOW IN HD!!

Recent Pickups 1

2010-08-13T14:56:00.000-07:00

Stuff that I've picked up over the last few days:

My mate Tim picked up this lovely little copy of Speedball 2 from a local charity shop, it really is mint and he is a throughtly good chap!

The "other" Gamecube Star Wars game, no idea how this plays but another game for the complete GC collection. This game cost me £2.50 including postage and packing.

Been after this sucka for ages, dispite the average reviews I've been throughly enjoying KOF 12 for the last few weeks, picked this up for a tenner. It has to be said it's got some of the most amazing 2D graphics I've ever seen, like controlling a cartoon.

Radirgy Noa Massive - Update 12/08/10

2010-08-12T05:04:00.000-07:00

Sorry non-Japanese 360 owners I can confirm that Radirgy Noa Massive is not going to be region free from the latest preorder update on NCSX:

http://www.shopncsx.com/rajiruginoamassive.aspx

There's some really interesting info on the conversion and sales figures for the Wii version!!

"NCS Product Synopsis
Update: August 10, 2010
«©NCSX» Sales for the Wii conversion of Radirgy NOAH were tepid. Maybe the elite shmup corps overseas didn't feel like playing a shooter with an input device called a "Nunchuk" or a "Remote." In a couple of months, Radirgy NOAH is getting ported over to the Japanese Xbox 360 which should prove to be more favorable for Milestone's sales. In the confines of NCS' offices, we consider the X360 to be the spiritual successor of the Dreamcast... at least in terms of coin-op to console shooter conversions.

Radirgy NOAH is a vertical shooter where a squat ship displays its versatility by shooting at flitting enemies, shielding itself from danger, and slashing at incoming attackers. By firing away and slashing during the course of the stages in Radirgy, the ship levels up both offensive functions for improved performance. "NOAH" features a simultaneous 2-player option and is viewed in the Yoko (horizontal) aspect which allows enough room for both gamers to maneuver and takes sides. The final boss "Ruki Mishima" from the first Radirgy is an optional player character in NOAH. Bosses in the game include a bald-headed homo sapien in yellow pants who performs a spin attack that launches fireballs and an aerial platform that disappears in a puff of clouds when destroyed.

Milestone is adding the word "Massive" to the Xbox 360 conversion of Radirgy NOAH but that impressive descriptor appears to only encompass new game modes in addition to the default arcade mode, an illustrations gallery which features unlockable artwork, and an online ranking mode. Preorders for the Japanese Xbox 360 import Radirgy NOAH Massive are welcome to ship on October 14, 2010 at JPY6800 or US$75.90 from NCS.

Questions and Answers
Q: What is this Radirgy Noir that I see on some sites?
A: The word "Noir" is a mis-transliteration of NOA or NOAH.

Q: Do ya'll prefer Radirgy or Radirgy NOAH?
A: Asteroids. Scratch that. Asteroids Deluxe.

Q: Is Radirgy NOAH Region-Free?
A: Nope. The earlier shooters that were RF appear to be outliers.

Q: How many copies of Radirgy NOAH did NCS sell on the Wii?
A: Exactly 173. We shipped the rest back to Tokyo at 35% trade.

Preorders for the Xbox 360 import Rajirugi Noah Massive are welcome to ship on October 14, 2010. Alternate spellings include Rajirugi Noa, Radirgy Noa, Radilgy Noa, Radio Allergy, and variations thereof.

Japanese Product Name: ﾗｼﾞﾙｷﾞﾉｱ Massive

Region Lock-out
Please note Japanese Xbox 360 games will not boot on USA or European Xbox 360 consoles due to the inherent region-lockout on Japanese X360 game discs."

Senko No Ronde Duo Limited Edition

2010-08-11T08:49:00.000-07:00

Just scored a copy of Senko No Ronde Duo Limited Edition for £56.00 a good £20 cheaper than anywhere else I've seen it! As you probably all know I'm mildly obsessed with my 360 shmup collection and this was one I missed oout on at release due to a three month period when a new shooter was released every month. This was released the same month as Ketsui so obviously that game got bought!! I've checked out some youtube vids of this and it looks like it plays very much like the original game (which is no bad thing) but with more bullets!!! Grrr!! Cant wait to give it a whirl

Stuff I've Bought Recently XXXV

2010-08-08T04:31:00.000-07:00

Radirgy Noa Massive - Available for Preorder!

2010-08-06T07:10:00.000-07:00

I love it when another rumoured 360 shooter becomes official!

Radirgy Noa Massive available for Preorder on Play-Asia:

http://www.play-asia.com/paOS-13-71-br-49-en-70-3x41.html

Preordered my copy, there's also an updated overview of the game:

"The arcade fan-favorite Radirgy, is ported to the Xbox360. The graphics in this new horizontal shooter are even more beautiful on your HD screen, and the electronic world in the game will be even more realistic.

This new port has new game modes and an online function. You can upload your scores and compete with the people in the country.

Besides gameplay, there are many more additions in the gallery mode, be sure to win these new illustrations and see what they are."

Radirgy Massive Update 04/08/10

2010-08-04T08:01:00.000-07:00

The 360 version may be titled Radirgy Noir Massive, there's quite a bit of confusion about what the game is called. Anyway the game is now listed on Amazon Japan http://www.amazon.co.jp/exec/obidos/ASIN/B003Y5I4D8/ and some screen shots have emerged:

12 Months, 14 Shmups, £1200 – Game #1

2010-08-04T04:52:00.000-07:00

To understand what I’m attempting to achieve with this project do please see the previous blog entry here:

http://gmintyfresh.blogspot.com/2010/07/12-months-14-shmups-1200.html

Well I’ve managed to secure my first game from the list, DeathSmiles 2 X Limited Edition.

After a bit of negotiating with the seller on Ebay I picked it up for the bargain price of £64, a full £7 cheaper than I expected to pay.

Expect a new video during the coming week.

I also finalised the list of games I’m going to go after over the coming months:

Blast Wind - Sega Saturn
Harmful Park - Playstation 1
Radiant Silvergun - Sega Saturn
Ibara - Playstation 2
Mushihimesama Futari Ltd Edition - Xbox 360
GlayLancer - Megadrive
Gigawing 2 - Dreamcast
Zero Gunner 2 - Dreamcast
Twinkle Star Sprites - Dreamcast
Last Resort - NEO GEO AES
Cotton 2 - With Tea Cup - Saturn
Soldier Blade - PC Engine
DeathSmiles 2 Limited Edition - Xbox 360 (Bought)
Hyper Duel Sega - Saturn

The hunt begins and there might even be some spare money in the war chest for a bonus buy!

Radirgy Massive

2010-08-03T05:09:00.000-07:00

Radirgy Massive has been confirmed for a physical 360 release on 28/10/10:

http://books.rakuten.co.jp/rb/%E3%83%A9%E3%82%B8%E3%83%AB%E3%83%8E%E3%82%AE%E3%82%A2-MASSIVE-Xbox360-4988648738355/item/6635403/

Aliens Vs Predator

2010-07-30T05:23:00.000-07:00

Been after AVP for a while now but it's always been a little too expensive, so when I saw this for sale in Grainger Games for £9 I had to buy it. I've seen the average reviews but I'm having none of that it's a cool little game. I've played the game through as the Predator and the control system is brilliant, the game really does pay homage to the films. It does go to show that sometimes you need to take games reviews with a pinch of salt - Dark Void, Bionic Commando, and Star Wars Force Unleashed all being examples of games that didn't review brilliantly but I really enjoyed.

Radirgy - 360?

2010-07-27T04:34:00.001-07:00

There are quite a few rumours circulating about some sort of Radirgy release on the 360:

http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showthread.php?t=402203

http://sazanami.net/20100723-news/

I love the art style of the game but not keen on how it plays, still interested to see what is actually going to get released.

Any new 360 shmup release is good news to me!!

Akai Katana

2010-07-27T03:42:00.000-07:00

It's been a good few weeks for Cave fans with the announcement of Dodonpachi Dai Fukkatsu for ipod and the announcment of a new arcade game Akai Katana.

Everything was a bit cryptic about this game until recent location test videos sprung up:

I really like what I've seen so far the first thing that springs to mind is how much the game resembles progear,those backgrounds are pure Dodonpachi, and I really like the look of the insane boss battles. One to watch out for I think.

Kotaku article:

http://kotaku.com/5594510/first-look-at-akai-katana-bullet-hell

30,000 Achievement Points - Nearly There

2010-07-24T14:34:00.000-07:00

Edit: 30000 hit playing Live Arcade!!

Woah less than 200 points away from another landmark, man I need to get a life!!

frameborder="0" height="140" scrolling="no"
width="204">

RIP Janet Johnson, 19/11/23 - 21/07/10

2010-07-22T02:08:00.000-07:00

Hello Chaps

Not many of you know this but for the last 8 months myself and my sister have been caring for our terminally Ill grandma. Unfortunately she passed away yesterday. I've got a mixture of emotions going through my head at the moment and writing this blog is helpful. I may take a short break from retroing but I'll be back!

Geoff

Thunder Force V - A New View

2010-07-18T17:07:00.000-07:00

As some of you may know my favourite Saturn shooter is Thunder Torce V, there's something inherently appealing about the game to me. It's the combination of fast pace, rocking soundtrack, and an intuative weapon system that makes it head and shoulders above the rest. I've always wondered how the Playstation version of the game compares, apparently whilst not looking as good the game has extras not included in the Saturn version:

CG rendered movie sequences
Extra Artwork
Enhamced sound
More game modes
Easter eggs
Less slowdown

This week I actually won a Japanese copy of the game for a bargain price of £11, a full £20 cheaper than the game should have been! Admittedly the copy I won didn't have a spine card but I can live with that.

Looking forward to adding this to my expanding PS1 shooter collection and seeing how it compares to the Saturn version..

Watch this space I feel a video coming on...

THUNDERFORCE V THUNDERFORCE

Loads of Games Arrived This Week Part 1.....

2010-07-17T05:58:00.000-07:00

Quite a haul of games this week, all really cheap too:

Rage Racer is my fabvourite Ridge Racer series game, I've had a used copy since release but the cover was missing. This is a long due replacement that cost £3, interesting demo disk too which my original copy doesn't have.

A quite nice condition US copy of Meteos for the DS, this cost £5. Spent about 2 hours playing the game on Thursday night and it's a great little puzzle game

Been after a copy of New Zealand Story Revolution on the DS for ages and missed out on getting a copy by pence a few times on Ebay. I managed to secure this copy for £5 and its mint. Wow NZS has never looked so good and the touch screen elements are nice, the game does seem as brutally hard as the original game the port is based on.

Ahh the gorgeous R-Type III more on this later, cost me £21

12 Months, 14 Shmups, and £1200

2010-07-16T03:10:00.000-07:00

This is a project I’ve been mulling over for the past 6 months, basically I’ve created a list of 14 shmups that I’d buy if money wasn’t an object. This list has evolved over the last few months and it’ll probably change again but this is how it stands at the moment in no particular order:

Blast Wind - Saturn
Harmful Park - PS1
Radiant Silvergun - Saturn
Ibara - PS2
Mushihimesama Futari Ltd Edition - 360
Glaylancer - MD
Gigawing 2 - DC
Zero Gunner 2 - DC
Rayxanber III - PC Engine CD
Last Resort - NEO GEO AES
Cotton 2 (Special Edition with Tea Cup)- Saturn
Star Soldier - PSP
Deathsmiles 2 Limited Edition - 360
Hyper Duel - Saturn

At one point Espgaluda II Special Edition (360) was on the list but I managed to pick it up cheaply, so Glaylancer replaced that game. Rayxanaber III will probably leave the list as it’s purchase is dependant on getting a PC Engine DUO (Final Soldier is looking good at the moment).
So what am I going to do with this list? Well the project was always going to be a series of Youtube videos charting my adventures in acquiring all of these dream games over 12 months with a budget of £1200.

Now the exiting news that I’m almost financially able to actually start buying!

Watch this space over the coming month for more news!!

R-Type 3

2010-07-15T02:21:00.000-07:00

So finally after all those years of waiting I have a copy of R-Type 3, I slightly ballsed up this purchase because I thought it was boxed - It wasn't as I read the description incorrectly. The version I bought is the beautifully designed Japanese release with the instruction booklet included. Seeing how pretty this is has just made me hungry to buy a boxed copy of this great game (the artwork truly is stunning). Still the game was still cheap and there is trade potential in the future.

Talking about Snes shmups, this month's "Let's all play" on the Retro Gamer forum is all about Axelay. There are always lively discussions when it comes this monthly thread, give it a go you might even get published in Retro Gamer. Not the biggest fan of the game to be honest, it's good but not great my thoughts from the thread:

"There's no denying the greatness of Axelay, however it's nearly fatally flawed by those vertical levels. They look and play quite crudely in comparison to the more refined and enjoyable Horizontal sections. It's like two different games have been haphazardly squashed together."

Guwange!!

2010-07-12T04:26:00.000-07:00

Great, some more news about the XBL conversion of Guwange.

http://www.joystiq.com/2010/07/10/cave-shmup-guwange-to-be-released-worldwide-on-xbla/

FEAR

2010-07-12T00:56:00.000-07:00

Hello kids

This week I'm going to make it my mission to finish a game I've had on the back burner for a long time, FEAR for the 360. I picked this up for about £20 including the Orange Box and Condemned 2 from my mate. I've finished both the other games but I'm still grinding my way through this one. I do quite like the game but the levels just merge into one in my mind and it's a bit samey. On level 7 so hopefully I'll get it finished this week, I need space on my shelves!!

Been checking out videos for the game Vanquish by Sega, really exited by this game it looks smart. I'll be preordering this one in the coming weeks.

Bought a couple of replacement games this weekend:

Rage Racer PS1 - Had a copy since release but it hasn't got a front cover so I finally got a replacement.
Pocket Fighter PS1 - Another Japanese copy, picked this up cheap and this copy has got the spine card!
New Zealand Story Evolution DS - Not a replacement but I've always fancied this game.

300 Subs

2010-07-10T05:11:00.000-07:00

Man that came round really quickly, I posted the teaser trailer online for the next competition - just waiting for the game to physically arrive before the competition can start.

MAME

2010-07-09T15:12:00.000-07:00

Ok a few new developments today

I finally got my 360 Street Fighter control pad working with MAME, piece of piss when you know how! Played some great shmups, going to spend a day playing Cave shmups tomorrow!!
Got some plans ready for a 300 sub Youtube competition, watch this space.
Another 360 limited edition turned up today, Splinter Cell Double Agent:

This special edition includes an LED light and cost me the princely sum of £10 - an absolute bargain.

Meteos

2010-07-08T16:16:00.000-07:00

Won a copy of Meteos for the DS yesterday, £5 including P&P. I won a copy of the original version not the crappy Disney themed rerelease. Looking forward to playing this interesting fusion between shooter and puzzle game. Been after this one since it's release.

(GC) Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

2010-07-08T05:18:00.000-07:00

Picked up a copy of Harry Potter TCOS for a quite reasonable £3 inc P+P, the game always seems to go for a premium because the character is popular. Lorraine has played through most of the series as she loves HP, they're not too bad but a bit kiddy for me. Anyway was in immaculate condition another game for the complete PAL GC collection.

Post Number 1

2010-07-08T03:06:00.000-07:00

Oh man had this account for quite a while and never posted anything, inspired by AmidstStorm to start posting. Completed a video for Chaos Field on the Gamecube for ash81b4u relating to this video http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e7bSYEtwlrc he's got a great channel and love his shmups. I posted this video so he could see the US version, I must admit I prefer his Jap copy it looks ace.

My vid can be found here:

Also some images: