Recommend me some PS2 shoot 'em ups

TechnoFreek

I would like recommendations for some old school style vertical and side scrolling shoot 'em ups on the PS2.

I normally play these sort of games on MAME but I have missed out on their PS2 counterparts.

All suggestions for games both good and bad welcome!

Retr0gamer

If you haven't already bought it you really, really need to get your hands on Gradius V, it is by far the best game on the PS2. It's by the same people that brought us the glorious Radiant Silvergun. In fact I think this game is better than the legendary Radiant Silvergun. It should be cheap and easy to find now. There isn't much other choice for good games in the genre. Psyvariar 2 is good but not worth it unless you find it cheap somewhere. I've heard good things about Mushihimesama but it doesn't look like my game, it's one of those bullet hell games that only a really hardcore shoot'em up expert could enjoy.

The Taito Legends collections have Layer Section 1, 2 and G-Darius which are so good they would be worth the price of the compilations alone. Silpheed: the lost planet is decent enough, again by the Gradius V guys, but really isn't up to the standard that Treasure usually produce.

You could try and get hold of some PS1 shmups. Einhander is awesome, as is Gradius Gaiden and all the parodius games are great. R-type Delta is a wonderful continuation of the series.

I would avoid R-type Final on the PS2 like the plague. It may carry the legendary namesake but it is one of the most boring games ever with some hideous slowdown.

TechnoFreek

Cheers Retr0gamer!
I had a feeling you'd be the one replying to me!!

I have been on the lookout for Gradius V in the past but with no success.
Having said that I havent been going out of my way to find it either!

Retr0gamer

I seen it awhile ago in the second hand sections in Dublin. Might be gone now. Should be easy enough to find online.