irem Collection Volume 1 | PS5

Through the collective efforts of ININ Games, Tozai, and Ratalaika Games we get a glimpse back at late 80's and early 90's irem shmup history. With three irem published shoot 'em ups spanning across multiple platforms including that of arcade cabinets, the PC engine, PC Engine CD, NES, and Famicom. These shmups being the side-scrolling arcade exclusive 'X Multiply', and the more console friendly ports of top-down shmups 'Image Fight' and 'Image Fight II'. 

Each game, in their own way, coming at the player with decked out options galore. Returning from previous ININ and Ratalaika collections to this collaborative effort are the multiple graphics and control toggles. Complete with micro-manageable visual filters, mappable controls, difficulty settings, vibration options, and wallpapers. That and screen size selection. Additionally cheats return with an invincibility toggle across all three ports. That and DIP switch arcade only settings meant to offer oldschool mechanics, difficulties, and control alternatives. You even get a rewind feature for back stepping those fatal mistakes. With these challenging quarter munchers being the way they are it might very well be a welcome sight for completionists looking to earn all in-game trophies.

Flashy, fancy, and stylized are the shmups in this irem collection. From the modernized menus to the games themselves everything is polished to perfection on the PlayStation consoles, especially that of the PS5. The game ports are well done, and their selection of options, plentiful. If you've bought, owned, or read one of my previous Ratalaika collection reviews you'll know what you are getting into with this particular release. For a budget price you get a highly customized experience that caters fully to player preference. Addressing both casual needs, and the needs of veteran shmup enthusiasts. There's a little something for everyone here in regards to that.

In the way of mechanics X Multiply, and the two Image Fight titles bring with them something that is unique to them. X Multiply's ship, for example, has parasitic arm extensions that wave about targeting and shooting enemy parasites in all directions. Something that is helpful given the claustrophobic layered layout of the interior humanoid body themed tunnels you fly through. Image Fight, on the other hand, is a top-down style of shmup in the same vein as XEVIOUS that utilizes four different speed variations, bombs, and a pod system that allows for sending the pod satellites as projectiles or as maintained turrets at the ship's sides for bonus bullet firing. This along with a front end attachment for an added spread shot. Giving the player the selection of tools they need to deal with the waves of lesser enemy ships, and ship bosses.

The Presentation ...

Visually, and audibly the games in 'irem Collection Volume 1' hold up even though they are retro by design. The arcade ports harbor the superior graphics, as they should, while the console ports offer a more doable and simplified experience in their lesser design. You'll get the usual chiptunes, pixel sprites, and animations as well as a pixel story panel in "Image Fight II". With the CRT, newly applicable "Arcade Glow", B&W, and alternative color graphics toggles you can change further how the display is on your television screen. Adding yet another layer to the afforded player preference. 

The Verdict ...

Though irem made some of the most challenging experiences with these three shoot 'em ups the added convenience and tailor made options creates something fit for all types of gamers. Be it casual, or hardcore. Those seeking the more casual experience will find cheats, and a rewind feature to help them along. Those who want that oldschool 1CC challenge will find that as well. Complete with leaderboards. You can opt to play the standard versions of each game or the arcade versions when available. 

In regards to the collection presentation it's a step up from previous collections, and looks much more modernized than the simple menu design that was once used. It is this change in artistic direction that makes the collection more inviting. Making it seem less like a ROM rehash, and more like a proper attempt at releasing a polished collection of games with all the bits & baubles included. For what it's worth this irem collection rightfully earns it's place as a shmup enthusiast must buy. Dare I say it, but it's even casual worthy. Don't miss out on this release! it comes out on November 21st!!!