Nemesis '90 Kai Reissued for Sharp X68000 Z: A Historic Gradius Remake Returns

Nemesis '90 Kai Returns: Classic Gradius Remake Reissued for Sharp X68000 Z via Oh!X Magazine The Sharp X68000 home computer is legendary among retro gaming enthusiasts, renowned for its impressive library of 2D titles and unmatched arcade conversions.

Although the X68000 never released outside Japan, it remains a cult favorite in the global retro gaming community.

Among its most notable games is Nemesis '90 Kai, a remarkable 1993 remake of Konami’s 1987 MSX classic Nemesis 2, better known internationally as part of the Gradius series.

The game is particularly special for its upgraded graphics, expanded content, and unique place in the series’ timeline. Originally developed by SPS with the approval of Konami, Nemesis '90 Kai stands out because it was not created internally by Konami itself.

As a result, it has been conspicuously absent from modern Gradius and Konami game compilations, limiting its exposure to Western audiences and newer generations of players.

Despite its quality and historical value, Nemesis '90 Kai has remained largely inaccessible since its initial release—until now. In a significant move for retro game preservation, a collective of Japanese gaming journalists is reviving the iconic Sharp-focused magazine Oh!X for a one-off commemorative issue.

This special edition will include an official reissue of Nemesis '90 Kai for the newly released Sharp X68000 Z micro-console, a hardware platform produced by Zuiki to cater to the growing interest in classic Japanese computers.

The release will debut with this limited edition magazine, offering fans the opportunity to experience this rare Gradius sequel on modern reproduction hardware. Enhancing the revival, the package will also include a patch that allows players to enjoy an alternative soundtrack composed by the late Akira Saito.

Saito, known for his contributions to M2’s Sega 3D Classics series for Nintendo 3DS, left a notable mark on the industry before his passing in 2016.

This soundtrack update promises to introduce new audio depth for both longtime fans and first-time players. As referenced by industry expert Gosokkyu, the rights to SPS’ catalog—including Nemesis '90 Kai—are now managed by M2, a developer renowned for its expertise in high-quality retro game preservation and emulation.

This official reissue marks the first time one of SPS’ classic works sees a recognized release under M2’s stewardship, although previous reissues by EGG and Zuiki did not always come via fully official channels. Overall, the reissue of Nemesis '90 Kai for the Sharp X68000 Z highlights ongoing efforts within both the Japanese and international gaming communities to celebrate and preserve video game history.

For Gradius fans, collectors, and those passionate about Japanese computer gaming, this represents a rare and significant opportunity to experience a legendary title long locked away in niche gaming obscurity.

Konami Xbox Series X|S Gradius X Sharp X68000 Sharp X68000 Z console X68000 Z SPS Nemesis '90 Kai M2 Oh!X Zuiki Akira Saito SB Creative EGG