New out from ININ Games (and Strictly Limited Games if you want a physical edition) is the Irem Collection Volume 2. Featuring games originally released in arcades and on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, the collection of three games – with variants – offers a glimpse into the world of arcade and console gaming that you might have overlooked.
Each game is included in its original form, as well as with quality of life “casual mode” enhancements – rewind, save states, autofire, etc. You can also manage control settings, video settings, and use cheats. The classic mode offers fewer options, and consequently the games are a bit trickier played as they were originally intended…
What’s in the Irem Collection Volume 2?
Three main games are the focus of the collection, the arcade versions of GunForce (1991), GunForce II (1994), and Air Duel (1990).
In addition, the collection includes the Japanese version of GunForce II, known as Geo Storm, and the SNES/Super Famicom version of GunForce. All titles are single-player and multiplayer – GunForce and GunForce II are co-op, whereas the two-playder mode in Air Duel is more competitive.
How do these games measure up?
GunForce 7/10
The collection kicks off with the first run-and-gun title, which features six-directional rapid shooting, weapons upgrades, and the ability to use other weapons mounted on vehicles. You’ve got to move quickly, however, as you’re against the clock. Liberal ducking and jumping is advised in order to survive, as is collecting lives to deal with the level bosses. It’s fun, and it’s frantic, and visually, it is colourful. The soundtrack does the job too.
(Quick note: I couldn’t get the game to start from the demo screen to start with. The reason? The add credits button is attached to the left thumbstick button. This might help you.)
The SNES version of GunForce is a surprisingly accomplished conversion, not just in terms of graphics, but also in speed and playability. While graphically it has the expected downgrade in quality, it’s just as good (and possibly that bit easier).
GunForce II 8/10
The sequel to GunForce is just that bit better than the original, offering a wider selection of rideable weapons and a nice chunk of destructive background. For example, the train you climb onto early in the first level is subject to damage when you shoot it.
While GunForce was thrilling, GunForce II (which I initially played as GeoStorm), is more audacious, and a tiny bit silly. It is for this reason that I have placed it ahead of the earlier game. There is a bit of extra energy and urgency to the game, quicker thinking is required, and while the timer might seem more forgiving, it’s easier to get bogged down in shooting rather than progressing.
Air Duel 8/10
I think Air Duel is probably my favourite of the collection, mainly due to its choice of two fighters. One is a helicopter, the other a fighter jet. I’m not sure if there is a difference in speed between the craft, but they certainly have contrasting manouevrability and weapons. The helicopter, in particular, has more directional shooting.
This game, more than any other 1990s top-down air shooter I’ve played, seems to be closely connected to what is now known as “bullet hell” shmups. I’m not 100% certain when that term was coined or when such games started throwing so much weaponry onto the screen (pre or post mobile?) but there is a clear ancestor right here in Air Duel.
Overall Score: 8/10
The Irem Collection Volume 2 might only include three titles, but each one offers a top quality arcade experience. While none of the titles can be described as genuine classics, they are top examples from the run-and-gun and shmup/bullet-death genres.
If your retro gaming takes place on modern consoles, the Irem Collection Volume 2 should be in your library.
Where to find the Irem Collection Volume 2
You can find the Irem Collection Volume 2 on Nintendo Switch (reviewed here), PlayStation 4 and 5, and Xbox One and Series X|S.
It is also available in physical limited editions for Switch and PS4/5 from Strictly Limited Games.
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Christian Cawley is a writer and editor who covers consumer electronics, IT, and entertainment media. He has written for publications such as Computer Weekly, Linux Format, MakeUseOf.com, and Tech Radar.
He also produces podcasts, has a cigar box guitar, and of course, loves retro gaming.