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Gradius Origins

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Gradius Origins
Item: Gradius Origins
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2025

GenresAction, Shooter, Side View Perspective, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableAug 7, 2025

PlatformNintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X

DeveloperM2

Overview

This collection features 18 versions across all 7 arcade titles in the series, including the first-ever appearance of Gradius III AM Show Version on home consoles.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

Critics praise Gradius Origins for its narrative context and franchise history but criticize its lack of depth. While Nintendo Life and GameBlast highlight the game's rich backstory, many, including Push Square and TheXboxHub, feel it offers minimal storytelling, ultimately disappointing those seeking a deeper narrative experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

17%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

67%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

17%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions of various critics regarding the story of Gradius Origins present a nuanced view that highlights some positive aspects of the game's narrative context. Nintendo Life appreciates the accompanying storylines available at the selection screen, which provide players with a sense of context for the games included in the collection. Similarly, GameBlast emphasizes the franchise's rich history and significance within the genre, noting the inclusion of Salamander III as a long-awaited title that contributes to the overall narrative tapestry. IGN Spain also points out the classic storyline of an invasion by a malevolent empire, which has evolved over the years, suggesting that there is a legacy of storytelling that fans of the series can appreciate. However, several critics express concerns regarding the depth and exploration of the story within Gradius Origins. Push Square mentions that while there are narrative elements, particularly in how Salamander III merges themes from both franchises, there is a lack of detailed analysis regarding the story itself. Vandal echoes this sentiment by stating that the collection does not delve into the impact of the included games, which is often a missed opportunity in compilations of this nature. TheXboxHub takes a more critical stance by describing the story as minimal, akin to classic arcade games like Space Invaders, which prioritize straightforward gameplay over a substantial narrative. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Gradius Origins offers some interesting narrative context and acknowledges the franchise's history, it ultimately falls short in providing a deep exploration of its story. Critics like Vandal and TheXboxHub highlight a common theme of minimalism in the narrative, indicating that the collection may not satisfy those looking for a rich storytelling experience. Despite the positive notes on the context provided by Nintendo Life and GameBlast, the general sentiment leans towards disappointment regarding the depth and engagement of the story, suggesting that fans of narrative-driven experiences may find the collection lacking.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Gradius Origins impresses with its complex and rewarding gameplay, praised for innovative mechanics and strategic power-ups that cater to all skill levels. Critics highlight its blend of classic arcade feel with modern enhancements like training modes and save states, though some warn of its challenging difficulty which may frustrate newcomers. Overall, it’s a well-received title that balances nostalgia with accessible, engaging gameplay, appealing to both veterans and newcomers alike.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

95%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Gradius Origins has garnered significant praise from critics, with many highlighting its complexity and depth. Eurogamer Germany commends the game for its "complex and innovative" mechanics that blend reflex-based challenges with memorization, creating a rewarding experience for players. The inclusion of various modes and options, such as training modes and difficulty settings, enhances accessibility, as noted by Nintendo Insider and Generación Xbox. Critics like Noisy Pixel and GamersRD emphasize the strategic power-up system, which allows players to tailor their gameplay experience based on their preferences and skill levels. The tactile and responsive gameplay, as described by Nintendo Life, further contributes to a satisfying experience that celebrates the arcade roots of the series while incorporating modern quality-of-life improvements, such as rewind features and save states. Despite the overwhelmingly positive reception, some critics have pointed out challenges associated with the gameplay. NintendoWorldReport mentions that while the gameplay is engaging, certain sections can feel "unfair," which may frustrate less experienced players. Push Square and Saudi Gamer echo this sentiment, describing the gameplay as "ruthlessly challenging," requiring quick reflexes and precise controls. The difficulty level, while appealing to veterans of the genre, may deter newcomers who might find the learning curve steep. This balance between challenge and accessibility is a recurring theme in the reviews, as some players may struggle to adapt to the demanding mechanics without adequate support. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Gradius Origins successfully blends classic gameplay with modern enhancements, resulting in a highly enjoyable experience. Most reviewers, including GameBlast and IGN Spain, agree that the game is easy to pick up but difficult to master, making it appealing to both newcomers and seasoned players alike. The strategic elements of power-up selection and the variety of gameplay options contribute to its depth, ensuring that players remain engaged. With the majority of critics praising the gameplay, it is clear that Gradius Origins stands out as a commendable addition to the franchise, balancing nostalgia with contemporary gaming expectations.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

Gradius Origins impresses with its nostalgic pixel art and faithful emulation of mid-90s arcade classics, earning praise for its visual design and customization options. While some titles show their age and lack innovation, the overall sentiment is positive, celebrating the collection's attention to detail and retro charm.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

68%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

32%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The overall sentiment regarding the graphics and visual design of Gradius Origins is predominantly positive. Critics have praised the pixel art aesthetic, which effectively captures the essence of the mid-90s arcade experience. Eurogamer Germany highlighted the enduring quality of earlier titles, while Noisy Pixel commended the mastery of pixel art, particularly in Salamander. The emulation quality has also been a focal point, with Gamesurf noting that it preserves the original visual style, and IGN Spain mentioning the inclusion of visual adjustments that enhance player experience. Additionally, several reviews, including those from Gamereactor UK and TheXboxHub, emphasized the nostalgic appeal of the graphics, which are described as a pixel-perfect reconstruction of the originals, further enhanced by options for filters that mimic old CRT displays. However, there are some criticisms regarding the visual design, particularly concerning the aging of certain titles within the collection. GameSpew pointed out that the original Gradius has not aged well visually, which suggests that while the collection celebrates its legacy, some elements may feel outdated. Additionally, while the pixel art is celebrated, Metro GameCentral noted that the graphics do not push beyond the limitations of the era, indicating a lack of innovation in visual design. Critics like Saudi Gamer also mentioned that some of the newer titles attempt to mimic the 90s aesthetic, which may not resonate with all players seeking modern visuals. Despite the mixed sentiments regarding specific titles, the overall consensus among critics is that Gradius Origins successfully honors its arcade roots through its graphics and visual design. The collection is lauded for its attention to detail, with many critics, including Gaming Age and Generación Xbox, acknowledging the high standards of visual design and the inclusion of various visual modes and customization options. Overall, while there are some concerns about the aging visuals of certain games, the nostalgic pixel art and thoughtful emulation have garnered a largely favorable reception from the gaming community.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Gradius Origins nails nostalgia with its stellar sound design and iconic music, earning rave reviews for enhancing the gameplay experience. Critics celebrate a rich audio library of over 200 tracks and a music player that showcases the franchise's legacy. However, some note issues like thin sound layering and less-than-stellar audio quality in parts, which could dampen the experience. Overall, it’s a nostalgic triumph with a few minor flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

75%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

25%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The overall sentiment regarding the sound design and music of Gradius Origins is predominantly positive across various reviews. Critics like Eurogamer Germany and Vandal commend the excellent sound design and music, noting that it significantly enhances the overall gaming experience. The nostalgia factor is a recurring theme, with Gamesurf highlighting the fantastic tracks from the series that resonate well even decades later, and Nintendo Insider praising the inclusion of a music player that allows players to enjoy the franchise's strong musical legacy. Furthermore, the extensive music gallery, as noted by COGconnected and GamersRD, adds considerable appeal, showcasing over 200 tracks and even unused ones, which enriches the collection's value. However, there are some criticisms regarding the sound design and music that cannot be overlooked. NintendoWorldReport points out that while the music has good melodies, it suffers from a lack of layering, resulting in a thinner sound. Additionally, GameSpew mentions that the original Gradius does not sound as good as remembered, although it lacks further details about the sound design of other titles. The Xbox Series X reviews also note that while the sound design captures the essence of the original games, some digitized speech may sound off, which could detract from the overall experience. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Gradius Origins successfully delivers a nostalgic and enjoyable audio experience, with many praising the iconic soundtracks and the inclusion of a music player. Critics like Noisy Pixel and Generación Xbox emphasize the high-quality audio expected from classic Konami titles, while the nostalgic elements resonate strongly with players. Despite some criticisms regarding sound layering and the quality of certain tracks, the overall reception is favorable, with the music and sound design contributing positively to the game's legacy.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Analysis Unavailable

Summary unavailable

TL;DR

voice acting

Description unavailable

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

Gradius Origins is praised for its pixel-perfect emulation and responsive controls across platforms, especially on the Switch, despite minor input lag concerns. Critics commend its overall technical performance, highlighting smooth gameplay and strong arcade vibes. However, the PS5 faces occasional slowdowns, and the Xbox Series X uses visual tricks that may not please purists. Overall, it successfully captures the original experience, appealing to both new players and nostalgic fans, despite some minor platform-specific issues.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

83%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

17%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

The technical performance of Gradius Origins has received largely positive feedback across all gaming platforms. On the Nintendo Switch, critics such as Eurogamer Germany and Nintendo Life highlight the game's pixel-perfect emulation and responsive controls, which contribute to a strong arcade experience. Noisy Pixel also commends the flawless emulation and smooth performance, while Gamesurf notes that despite potential input lag, the command response remains commendable. This consensus among critics indicates that the Switch version successfully captures the essence of the original game while providing various display options that enhance the overall experience. However, there are some concerns regarding the technical performance on each platform. For the Nintendo Switch, Gamesurf points out potential input lag, which, while not affecting collision or command response, could be a concern for players seeking precision. On the PS5, GameBlast mentions experiencing slowdowns during full-screen moments, which detracts from the experience, although other critics like COGconnected and IGN Spain praise the emulation's stability and smooth performance. The Xbox Series X version, while noted for solid technical performance and improved resolution by Generación Xbox, also mentions the use of visual tricks, which may not appeal to purists looking for a more authentic experience. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Gradius Origins delivers a very good technical performance across all platforms, with most reviewers emphasizing the quality of emulation and responsiveness. The majority of opinions reflect a strong appreciation for the preservation of the original arcade experience, with notable praise from critics like Gaming Age and Metro GameCentral regarding the stability and integrity of the game on the PS5. While some minor issues were reported, particularly on the Switch and PS5, they do not overshadow the overall positive sentiment towards the game's technical execution, suggesting that it effectively meets the expectations of both new players and nostalgic fans alike.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Gradius Origins receives strong praise for its high replay value thanks to multiple game versions, difficulty settings, and online features. Critics laud its appeal to both casual and hardcore players, emphasizing local co-op and competitive modes. While a few voices raise concerns about accessibility for casual gamers, the overall consensus is that the collection effectively engages a diverse audience, making it a worthwhile nostalgic experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

82%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

18%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Gradius Origins is predominantly positive among critics, with many praising the collection for its extensive content and features. Eurogamer Germany highlights the high replay value stemming from multiple versions of each game, various difficulty modes, and additional features such as online rankings and training modes. Similarly, Nintendo Insider and Noisy Pixel commend the game for its multiple variations and online leaderboards, which encourage players to refine their skills and compete with others. Critics like Gamesurf and GameSpew also emphasize the inclusion of local co-op and various gameplay modes, which significantly enhance replayability for both veterans and newcomers. This strong emphasis on replay value suggests that the collection is designed to engage players over extended periods, catering to a wide audience. Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, a few critics express reservations regarding the replay value. NintendoWorldReport suggests that while the collection offers various features, it may feel more like a niche history lesson rather than a source of deep fun, which could potentially limit its appeal. COGconnected also points out that while hardcore fans may find replay value in the alternate versions and gallery, the game's difficulty might deter casual players from fully engaging with the content. This sentiment is echoed by Gamereactor UK, which mentions replayability for die-hard fans but lacks specific details, indicating that not all players may find the same level of enjoyment. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Gradius Origins offers significant replay value, particularly for fans of the genre and those who appreciate the nostalgic elements of the collection. The majority of reviews highlight the extensive options available, including multiple game versions, difficulty settings, and various modes that cater to both casual and hardcore players. Critics like IGN Spain and Push Square reinforce this notion, asserting that the collection's features enhance the overall experience and encourage exploration. While there are some concerns about accessibility and engagement for casual players, the prevailing opinion remains that Gradius Origins is a well-crafted collection with ample replayability that successfully appeals to a diverse audience.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

88%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

12%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding Gradius Origins is predominantly positive, with many critics praising the collection for its quality and attention to detail. Eurogamer Germany highlights it as a "well-crafted collection" that caters to both veteran fans and newcomers, while Noisy Pixel calls it a "must-own for shmup fans," emphasizing its definitive nature in preserving the genre's legacy. Critics like Nintendo Insider and GameBlast echo this sentiment, describing the collection as a "wealth of content" and an "accessible and enjoyable" experience for players of all skill levels. Additionally, Generación Xbox and TheXboxHub commend the compilation for its modern enhancements and rich audiovisual material, solidifying its status as an essential title for fans of the franchise. Despite the overall acclaim, several critics noted some shortcomings that could detract from the experience. For instance, Gamereactor UK mentioned a "mixed" overall verdict, citing the absence of key titles that could have enhanced the collection. Critics like NintendoWorldReport and SpazioGames pointed out that while the compilation is well-preserved, it may feel niche and lacks some historical context, which could alienate casual players. Moreover, while many reviews laud the collection's ambition, some, such as COGconnected, warn that it might require a specific interest in the early Gradius titles to fully appreciate the offering. In summary, the consensus among critics is that Gradius Origins is a commendable collection that successfully honors the legacy of the franchise while providing a rich experience for both dedicated fans and newcomers. Most reviewers, including Push Square and Vandal, agree that it is a "must-have" for shoot 'em up enthusiasts, despite some notable omissions and a few critiques regarding its accessibility for casual gamers. Overall, the collection is celebrated for its quality and depth, making it a significant addition to the genre's history, even if it doesn't cater to every player's tastes.

TL;DR

Gradius Origins is a highly praised collection for shmup fans, lauded for its quality, detail, and modern enhancements. Critics call it a "must-own" and a "wealth of content," appealing to both veterans and newcomers. However, some noted notable omissions and a potential lack of accessibility for casual players, suggesting it may feel niche. Overall, it’s a well-crafted tribute to the franchise, cementing its importance in gaming history despite a few drawbacks.

MONSTER

Reviews

51 reviews found

100

Gaming Age

PlayStation 5

Sep 5, 2025