Irem Collection Volume 3 - Review of the Video Game

      Andrew Newton reviews Irem Collection Volume 3…

      If you have fond memories of side-scrolling shoot-’em-ups from the arcades, reminiscent of those exhilarating days when those cherished machines made your hands sweaty and your thumbs sore, then Irem Collection Volume 3 might provide the nostalgic experience you seek. This newest retro compilation from ININ Games includes three classic shoot-’em-ups: Mr. Heli, Mystic Riders, and Dragon Breed.

      First on the list is Mr. Heli, a side-scrolling shooter that allows players to control a charming little helicopter through various caverns. Players must eliminate enemies, collect the gems they leave behind, and purchase power-ups to defeat foes more easily. It blends shoot-’em-up action with platforming elements, and while it might feel somewhat dated by current standards, the gameplay remains engaging.

      Next is Mystic Riders, an enjoyable, vibrant, and exaggerated fantasy shoot-’em-up where you soar through the skies on broomsticks, casting magic at a range of quirky, cartoonish monsters. In addition to shooting magic, players can fling their broomstick like a boomerang, a delightful feature that may go unnoticed. Overall, Mystic Riders is whimsical, swift, and full of charm.

      Lastly, Dragon Breed offers a darker and more serious tone compared to the other titles in the collection. Players take flight on the back of a gigantic dragon named Bahamoot, navigating through a devastated fantasy realm filled with horrifying creatures. What differentiates Dragon Breed from its counterparts is the dragon itself. This lengthy, Chinese-style dragon can use its sinuous body as both a shield and a weapon, adding a unique element to the shoot-’em-up genre. While it poses the greatest challenge among the three, it is also the most rewarding to progress through.

      All three games have been authentically adapted for modern consoles, each featuring a variety of contemporary enhancements. Players can choose between the original arcade mode or utilize options like rewinds, save slots, invincibility, and more, making these titles more accessible. Additionally, there are various visual settings, including multiple filters, CRT-style scanlines, and customizable screen layouts that help recreate that classic arcade aesthetic.

      It’s notable that the presentation throughout this collection closely resembles the first two volumes, and similar to the previous collections, there is a lack of bonus content. Having development notes or concept art would have been intriguing. This feels like a missed opportunity.

      The Irem Collection Volume 3 accomplishes its goal effectively. It offers three relatively obscure shoot-’em-ups and adds just enough modern refinement to appeal to both veteran fans and newcomers. While it may not be the must-have purchase of the year for those uninterested in the genre, it is likely to be worth the investment for shoot-’em-up enthusiasts.

      Rating – All three games in this collection took me on a delightful trip down memory lane – 8/10

      Andrew Newton