Best current generation graphics in SHMUPS

[classicb]

I guess what people find visually stimulating is subjective but too me the current generation of shmups are just visual masterpieces. Ikaruga, Gadius V, and R-Type Final all fit the bill along with countless imports. Something about huge bosses exploding and the detailed background environments. I've played plenty of great looking 3D games but they don't stun me the way a 2D shmup does. I know this genre is becoming more and more of a niche each year especially state side but i hope at least a few titles sneak through each year. So feel free to agree or disagree with me. I love all shmups but the current generation has just outdone themselves graphically. I know graphics don't make a game but geez i actually feel like i'm playing artwork when i pop in a current generation shmup. Most current generation shmups have great controls to go with the graphics so its a win win. Is anyone else just loving the current generation of shmups?

[Damaramu]

Yeah, they kicking all buttocks, but I'm having trouble with those games and their rotating, scaling and spinning 3D backgrounds (R-Type Final, Radiant Silvergun, etc.).

THose backgrounds are so cool looking and detailed, I often find myself dying because my eyes wander off the action and to the scenery!

Anyways, shmups are a beautiful thing. :rocker:

[GobopopRevisited]

Annother fine looking SHMUP with new-fangled graphics- Zero Gunner 2!

[robotriot]

Yea, i second Gradius V and Zero Gunner 2. Also, Psyvariar 2 has excellent explosions (2nd level boss, together with that sound effect on a stereo with good bass is just great).

[klausien]

Gradius V definitely takes it, with Ikaruga close behind, but I have always been partial to GigaWing 2 myself. Still blows my mind.

The massive slowdown kills R-Type Final.

[bazariah]

im gonna go with gradius V, theres just something about a classic game with those pretty graphics

[esquire]

My vote goes to Zero Gunner 2. I love that game. I wish it had been released in the US before the DC died.

[d4rkmoon]

if ya like Psyvaria 2...then check out Shikigami no Shiro 2 the graphix ´n backgrounds are just beautifull.

[TurboGenesis]

If you like shoot em ups you need to get with an import (japan) PS2. Great games like DoDonpachi Daioujou, ESPGaluda, Dragon Blaze (and Sol Divide), and Mushihimesama just shipped yesterday. These shooters offer impressive graphics and manic gameplay. Also Raiden III is coming this fall. Gonna pre order mine soon! Oh I also forgot that there is also Giga Wing Generations availible now.

[Jibbajaba]

Chalk me up for Zero Gunner 2 as well. I think I'm starting to like this game more than Ikaruga. I like the fact that you have to rotate your ship. Graphics are awesome, and the sound is cool too.

Chris

[classicb]

If you like shoot em ups you need to get with an import (japan) PS2. Great games like DoDonpachi Daioujou, ESPGaluda, Dragon Blaze (and Sol Divide), and Mushihimesama just shipped yesterday. These shooters offer impressive graphics and manic gameplay. Also Raiden III is coming this fall. Gonna pre order mine soon! Oh I also forgot that there is also Giga Wing Generations availible now.

I would love to get into PS2 imports but i just can't afford it.

[AlexKidd]

I loved the visuals in Ikaruga. I didn't think it would look that good considering most of the stuff in the game is just black and white but it's very well done. Gradius V is very nice looking too, though I don't like the game as much. Havn't gotten R-type final yet but I plan on picking it up one of these days.

[shoes23]

What about Mars Matrix? If you like millions of little circle bullets flying around the screen at the same time...then you'll love this gem.