irem Collection Volume 2 announced for PS5, Xbox Series, PS4, Xbox One, and Switch
Due out on February 20, 2024.
ININ Games, Tozai Games, and irem have announced irem Collection Volume 2 for PlayStation 5, Xbox Series, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Switch. It will launch digitally on February 20, 2024. Physical edition pre-orders will open on July 16 via exclusively via Strictly Limited Games.
irem Collection Volume 2 will include shoot ’em up games GunForce, GunForce II, and Air Duel.
Here is an overview of the collection, via ININ Games:
About
Welcome to the irem Collection Volume 2, an extraordinary compilation of timeless arcade gems. Whether you’re a retro gaming enthusiast or new to the scene, this collection guarantees excitement!
GunForce (SNES, M-92 Arcade)
This Run and Gun gem will include both the Super Nintendo Entertainment System and arcade versions. Whether you played the original on your childhood Super Nintendo Entertainment System or prefer the much-improved Arcade version, we’ve got you covered!
Often considered to be one of the first run’ n’ gun games, GunForce: Battle Fire Engulfed Terror Island can be seen as the initial baby steps that paved the way for the later-released Metal Slug series and its sequel, GunForce II (GeoStorm), both of which were highly acclaimed. GunForce is where it all began, after all!
Originally released on the Super Nintendo Entertainment System in the west and in arcades in Japan, you must run and gun your way through hordes of aliens to stop a rogue CPU and restore freedom to the world. The game shows no mercy and throws you into the enemy frontlines right from the start as you parachute into action. And if that’s not enough ’90s action for you, how about doing a wheelie on a motorbike while shooting helicopters?! GunForce has got you covered. As it is now a tradition, GunForce introduced different vehicles f0r the player to control – tanks, helicopters, or motorbikes. Make your choice!
GunForce II (M-92 Arcade)
The official sequel to GunForce never made it out of the arcades, making this release its first official worldwide launch on consoles!
GunForce II, known as GeoStorm in Japan, is the sequel to the Super Nintendo Entertainment System and arcade game GunForce. It improves upon GunForce in every way and is considered to be one of the last arcade games from Irem. GunForce II was never released outside of arcades, making its inclusion in the irem Collection Volume 2 its first-ever worldwide console release.
Featuring enhanced animations, improved gameplay, and a killer soundtrack, GunForce II was created by the same staff that later developed the iconic Metal Slug series. It is considered the spiritual predecessor to the Metal Slug series, with many of its sound effects and designs being reused in the series. It is a must-play for all fans! Set in a futuristic post-apocalyptic environment, the game allows you to take control of Max or Lei. Your goal is simple: dual blast your way through five different stages and rack up those high scores! Vehicles make a return, as is tradition, including motorbikes, mechs, and tanks, to name a few.
Air Duel (M-72 Arcade)
Rounding out Volume 2 is another arcade-exclusive game. Air Duel was only ever released in Japanese arcades, and this marks its first official worldwide release on consoles. In this classic shoot ’em up, you can switch your aircraft before every new stage, a feature that was groundbreaking back in the day!
The year is 2004. Earth has been devastated by an unprecedented nuclear war, and a secret organization called D.A.S. is rising to ensure chaos in the world. It is now your job to thwart their mischievous plans and save what remains of the world! Air Duel is a 2D vertical scrolling shoot ’em up that was exclusively available in Japanese arcades and never made it to the West. Its inclusion in the irem Collection Volume 2 marks its first-ever worldwide console release.
Developed by the same legendary team at Irem that brought you GunForce and later the Metal Slug series, Air Duel offers seven challenging stages that need to be mastered either alone or with a friend in co-op. Choose your aircraft! Whether you prefer shooting forward only with the Jet Fighter FG-40 or firing crosswise with the Helicopter E-709, your playstyle is key to victory. Together with GunForce and GunForce II, Air Duel completes the irem Collection Volume 2.
And that’s not all! For all the games, we have included Online Leaderboards & Global Rankings. If you seek a real challenge, this is your call!
View the first screenshots at the gallery. Visit the official website here.
