Gradius Origins Launches on Nintendo Switch: Complete Series Collection with Modern Features

Konami has officially released Gradius Origins on the Nintendo Switch, bringing together a landmark collection of the iconic arcade shooter series.

Available now through the Nintendo eShop worldwide, this comprehensive package offers fans and newcomers alike the definitive Gradius experience with modern quality-of-life enhancements, never-before-seen content, and an array of celebrated classics. Gradius Origins assembles 18 unique versions spanning all seven core arcade titles, cementing its status as the most expansive Gradius collection to date.

Notably, the package marks the home console debut of the rare Gradius III AM Show Version, a sought-after iteration previously unavailable outside arcades.

This release reaffirms Konami’s dedication to preserving its storied legacy while enhancing playability for today’s gaming audience. Included Titles and Versions Fans will find a diverse lineup, including: 1.

SALAMANDER III 2.

GRADIUS (featuring Japanese, North American, European, and prototype variants) 3.

SALAMANDER (with Japanese and North American [LIFE FORCE] versions) 4.

LIFE FORCE (Japan Only Version) 5.

GRADIUS II: GOFER no Yabou (including several Japanese releases and North America’s VULCAN VENTURE) 6.

GRADIUS III: Densetsu kara Shinwa e (with four versions, including the first home appearance of the AM Show Version) 7.

SALAMANDER2 (Japan Version) Enhanced Gameplay Features In a move to support both series veterans and newcomers, Gradius Origins introduces a suite of updated features: - **Quicksave & Quickload:** Players can save or load their progress at any point, ideal for tackling challenging stages. - **Rewind:** This feature grants users the ability to backtrack gameplay moments, a boon for mastering difficult sections. - **Easy and Invincible Modes:** For a more accessible experience, Easy Mode reduces ship hitboxes, while Invincible Mode makes ships impervious to damage, tracking hits instead of ending play. - **Training Mode:** Select games include a training suite, enabling customization of restart points, loop counts, and power-up statuses. - **Online Rankings:** Global leaderboards let high scorers upload replays, fostering competitive play within the Gradius community. - **Sound & Visual Galleries:** Beyond gameplay, fans can enjoy original and arranged soundtracks and browse developmental artwork, instruction cards, and in-depth series guides. Konami, in an official statement accompanying the release, highlighted that the package is designed to be both a tribute to the franchise’s rich history and a welcoming entry point for new players.

"With Gradius Origins, we wanted to bring the full breadth of the arcade legacy to Nintendo Switch players, blending timeless gameplay with flexible support options," noted Konami spokespersons. Launch and Availability Gradius Origins is now live on the Nintendo Switch eShop worldwide.

For dedicated retro gaming enthusiasts and arcade shooter fans, this robust anthology brings together the best of Gradius with the convenience and accessibility of modern features.

Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth coverage on classic game revivals and Nintendo Switch developments.

Nintendo Switch Konami Nintendo Switch arcade Gradius Gradius Origins Gradius III AM Show Version eShop