Migrating from >>>/vg/1/#637
I've been playing Darius Gaiden all month and finally finished a 1cc. Here's Neon Light Illusion, my favorite boss of the ones I've encountered. The bosses are all giant robotic sea creatures, which I think is cool. I'm emulating the PSX version, so there's a bit of slowdown.
This game's levels are arranged in a pyramid, so at the end of each zone, you choose between 2 zones to play next. I settled on ABEHLQV, which I found to be the path of least resistance. It's a fun system. There are many zones I haven't even seen, so it's good for replay value. I wonder if the ending changes depending on the route you take.
Not shown here, there is also a feature where you can capture midbosses and have them fight alongside you. It's very rewarding, since they have strong attacks and cool designs, plus they give you bonus points at the end.
I had to adjust to how the bombs work in this game, as they don't make you invulnerable until shortly after you press the button, meaning you have to plan ahead to use them effectively, rather than reacting to the immediate situation. They also immobilize enemies, tying into the aforementioned system by making captures easier.
There's a subtle rank system in this game, as in most shmups. Rank is increased by firing, wiping out enemy formations, and destroying optional parts of bosses, so careful shooting is required to keep the difficulty manageable. I arrived at the final boss with a higher rank than usual on this run, but my stockpiled lives and bombs carried me through. I think capturing midbosses also increases rank, but I couldn't resist going for most of them.
The graphics are pleasant, and the soundtrack is top-notch. If you like what you see, check this game out. I hear it's the peak of the series, but I haven't tried the rest.