Fans Share Positive Impressions of Gradius Origins

Gradius Origins has been met with strong praise from both critics and longtime fans of the shoot-’em-up genre. Released as a celebration of the franchise’s 40th anniversary, the collection delivers a carefully curated lineup of classic Gradius and Salamander titles, enhanced with modern features.

Critics have highlighted the emulation quality, attention to historical accuracy, and inclusion of rare and regional variants as standout aspects. M2’s involvement—known for their precision and reverence in retro game preservation—has also been a key factor in the game’s warm reception.

One of the biggest surprises, and widely regarded as the collection’s crown jewel, is Salamander III, a brand-new title developed exclusively for this release. It has reignited enthusiasm for the series and drawn praise for blending modern design sensibilities with old-school gameplay.

Fans and reviewers alike have applauded the accessibility options, such as quick save, rewind, and training modes, which help make notoriously difficult arcade shooters more approachable to new players without alienating genre purists.

That said, reception hasn’t been without criticism. Some fans expressed disappointment at the absence of later entries, such as Gradius V, Gaiden, and various console-exclusive titles. While the current lineup focuses heavily on arcade roots, there’s a clear appetite for a more comprehensive follow-up collection.

Still, Gradius Origins is largely considered a successful and respectful revival—one that does justice to a legendary franchise and leaves players hopeful for more. For the best deals on Gradius Origins, check out our comparison website.