M2 collaborates with Konami and Taito.
In a refreshing display of collaboration, this week’s remarkable arcade collections from M2 are now available for purchase — the Konami-published Gradius Origins Collection and the Taito-published Operation Night Strikers. You can find them as a discounted bundle on Steam for a limited time. Additionally, both collections are also available as part of bundles with titles like Cygni and Operation Wolf Returns, which might seem deceptive to those seeking quality.
ARCADE ARCHIVES
D-DAY
- Platform: PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch (Worldwide)
- Price: $7.99 / €6.99 / £6.29
- Publisher: Hamster / Jaleco
What is it? A military-themed vertically-scrolling shooter that Jaleco originally released in arcades in 1984. This game challenges players to target both flying and ground enemies while guiding a battleship through hostile waters.
Why should you care? If you’re looking for something distinct from the numerous early ’80s shooters already listed on ACA, and if you don’t mind some basic chiptune effects that sound like Morse code.
Fun fact: Jaleco initially planned to port this game for the Famicom but ultimately scrapped the idea.
EGG CONSOLE
Xak Precious Package: The Tower of Gazzel (PC-88)
- Platform: Nintendo Switch (Worldwide)
- Price: $6.49 / ¥880
- Publisher: D4 Enterprise / Micro Cabin
What is it? A spin-off from the well-known action RPG series Xak released on PC-88, focusing on action and light puzzle-solving rather than traditional RPG elements, with the unique ability to switch between four helpful partner characters.
Why should you care? If you’re in search of an action-RPG aimed more at adrenaline than RPG mechanics, Xak could be an exciting experience for you.
Language barrier? Some menus are in English, but most content remains in Japanese.
G-MODE ARCHIVES+
Tantei Kibukawa Ryousuke Jiken-tan Vol.17: Midoumaru-tei Jiken
- Platform: Nintendo Switch (Japan), PC via Steam (Worldwide)
- Price: $7.99 or equivalent
- Publisher: G-MODE / And Joy
What is it? The seventeenth entry in a long-running detective mystery game series, originally delivered in four episodes on smartphones, now compiled into one package where young Kibukawa investigates a series of harassment incidents escalating to murder.
Why should you care? Every enduring detective series eventually explores its origins.
Fun fact: G-MODE has announced a physical compilation for Tantei Kibukawa on Switch, but details about included games and bonuses are still pending.
JALECOLLE FAMICOM VER.
Saiyuuki World II & Whomp ‘Em!
- Platform: Nintendo Switch (Worldwide)
- Price: $7.99 or equivalent
- Publisher: City Connection
What is it? A two-pack emulation featuring the action platformer Saiyuuki World II and its reskin, Whomp ‘Em, offering features like save states, art galleries, and translation overlays.
Why should you care? For fans of the original and those curious about the differences between the two games, this solid sequel draws influence from Mega Man.
Fun fact: City Connection has announced another reissue of Rod Land for the JALECOlle line.
OTHER
- Platform: PC via Steam (Worldwide)
- Price: $6.99 or equivalent
- Publisher: Tom Create
What is it? A puzzle-action game involving the demolition of space meteorites, originally developed for the Nintendo DS, now revamped with additional features and two-player modes for Switch.
Why should you care? While many of the GO Series titles may not have aged well, Earth Saver stands out and deserves attention.
Fun fact: Tom Create has a rich history dating back to the ’80s, including numerous collaborations with Bandai.
Fate/hollow ataraxia REMASTERED
- Platform: Nintendo Switch, PC via Steam (Worldwide)
- Price: $29.99 or equivalent
- Publisher: Aniplex
What is it? The first officially localized version of the 2005 visual novel linked to the expansive Fate universe, based on a 2014 remake with voice acting and additional mini-games.
Why should you care? Known for its narrative significance, ataraxia could be seen as an essential entry for new players.
Tip: Fate/Stay night is on sale and available in a discounted bundle with ataraxia.
- Platform: PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, PC via Steam (Worldwide)
- Price: $39.99 or equivalent
- Publisher: Konami
What is it? A collection of several classic arcade titles from the Gradius series, spanning the mid-’80s to the mid-’90s, featuring 21 game versions and many modern conveniences for players.
Included games: The collection features numerous versions of Gradius, including previously unreleased ones and rare prototypes, alongside the new Salamander III.
Why should you care? This collection is celebrated for its quality and depth, and it may offer the most accurate representations of some iconic arcade games ever developed.
Tip: Use the Konami Code for bonus game unlocks!
- Platform: PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, Xbox, PC via Steam (Worldwide)
- Price: $14.99 or equivalent
- Publisher: id Software
What is it? A remastered duo pack including Heretic and Hexen, now featuring cross-platform multiplayer and enhanced graphics.
Why should you care? These remasters aim to modernize the classic gameplay while addressing some less enjoyable elements in design.
Tip: Owners of previous versions can upgrade for free.
- Platform: Nintendo Switch, PC via Steam (Worldwide)
- Price: $24.99 (base), $22.49 (“CS Pack” DLC), $59.99 (English physical)
- Publisher: Taito
What is it? An emulated collection of Taito’s popular arcade shooters, enhanced for modern players with optional features and various control methods.
Included games: The collection showcases multiple versions of Night Striker, Operation Wolf, Operation Thunderbolt, and Space Gun, all with user-friendly options.
Why should you care? If you’re new to Night Striker, this collection might introduce you to a cherished arcade title while also offering classics that many love.
Tip: Early-access codes for upcoming titles may be provided with special editions!
The House of the Dead 2: REMAKE
- Platform: Nintendo Switch, PC via Steam (Worldwide)
- Price: $24.99 or equivalent
- Publisher: Forever Entertainment
What is it? A remake of the classic 1998 lightgun shooter, featuring updated visuals, voice acting, and modern tweaks.
Why should you care? Despite some flaws, this remake serves as an homage to a beloved title.
Note: A PlayStation release is forthcoming.
FREED FROM RETAILER PROMO PRISON
R-Gear
This long-scrapped sequel to Taito’s RayForce was recently made accessible through limited promotions; you can now find it available on Japanese digital storefronts.
UPDATES UPDATES UPDATES
Capcom Fighting Collection 2 (PC/PS/XB/Switch) – Free Update
This update introduces bonus content, including new gallery items and cross-play features, enhancing the collection’s overall value.
Original article by retronauts.com
