Descpription:
Gradius II has kept the gameplay from the original
game, but infused it with enhancements brought from the spin-off,
Salamander, and the Japanese arcade release of Life Force. This is
primarily evident in two of the weapons configurations that are selectable.
Another first in the series was the inclusion of the "boss rush" (also known as
"boss parade" or "boss alley"), levels designed entirely with only boss confrontations.
Gradius II retains the selection bar from Gradius, but now the player can
choose between four different weapon configurations and progressions.
All schemes have speed-up and multiples (Options), but
have differing 'Missile', 'Double' (laser), and 'Laser' weapons.
The player can have at most four multiples. Choosing another multiple
after four will make the four multiples to move around the spacecraft
until they encounter an obstacle and stop revolving. Additionally,
there are also two types of shielding to choose from: shield and forcefield.
The shield option adds more durability, but only for the front
of the Vic Viper, while the forcefield adds protection for the
entire spacecraft, albeit only against three hits.
