G-Darius Ver.2 (Ver 2.03J)

Taito’s G-Darius Ver.2 is a side-scrolling shooter released in 1997 that continues the unique aesthetic and gameplay of the Darius series. Players pilot customizable ships through sprawling, ocean-themed environments, battling bizarre aquatic creatures and colossal bosses rendered in distinctive polygonal graphics. Two players can cooperate as they navigate horizontally across the screen, collecting power-ups to enhance their weaponry and defensive capabilities, with a notable addition of a rapid-fire button for increased firepower. A key feature of G-Darius Ver.2 is its zone selection system, accessible through a specific sequence of inputs after inserting credit, allowing players to choose which area of the game they wish to tackle first. The visuals are complemented by a soundtrack composed by Hisayoshi Ogura and sound effects crafted by Yukiharu Urita, both members of Zuntata. A peculiar quirk in the game’s programming prevents players from entering “SEX” on the high score table; attempts to do so will automatically change it to "AAA." The game runs on Taito's FX-1B hardware and builds upon previous entries in the Darius lineage, offering a challenging and visually striking experience for fans of classic arcade shooters.