Cover of Gradius V

Similar games

Games like Gradius V

2004 PlayStation

An uncompromising side-scrolling shooter in which you weave through hazards and bullet fire while aiming your Options with the analog stick. Memorizing stages and precise positioning are the heart of the challenge.

What defines Gradius V:

  • Challenging difficulty
  • Sci-fi setting
  • Timing and reflexes matter (parrying, dodging)
  • Action-packed real-time combat

The closest matches for Gradius V are DoDonPachi, Gradius Origins and Raiden. Each of these 10 games shares something of what makes Gradius V special – the reasons are listed right on each game.

10 games with a similar feel, sorted by match

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Best match

DoDonPachi

99 %

1997 PlayStation

  • Challenging difficulty
  • Timing and reflexes matter (parrying, dodging)
  • Sci-fi setting

A landmark Cave arcade bullet-hell shooter where you thread through dense bullet patterns, build huge scores with a chain system, and unlock a hidden, tougher true ending through masterful play.

Gradius Origins

Challenging difficulty

A collection of all seven arcade Gradius games in 18 versions, including the Gradius III AM Show Version making its home console debut. Classic side-scrolling shoot-'em-ups with the power-up bar, precise dodging and steep difficulty.

Raiden

Challenging difficulty

A classic vertical arcade shooter where you dodge enemy fire across eight missions, blast targets and collect power-ups. Built around score chasing and replays, with a steep challenge.

Ultratron

Sci-fi setting

Ultratron is a frantic twin-stick arcade shooter in the spirit of Robotron 2084, where you play the last battle droid blasting waves of killer robots. Neon retro visuals, driving sound and upgrades between levels make for a hypnotic flow.

Darius Gaiden

Challenging difficulty

A classic side-scrolling shoot'em up where you pilot the Silver Hawk against giant mechanical fish bosses, with branching stage routes. Upgradable weapons and the new black hole bomb drive intense arcade action.

Robotron: 2084

Challenging difficulty

A legendary arcade twin-stick shooter where you fight endless robot waves alone while rescuing the last humans. Frantic, punishing and built purely around reflexes.

In the Hunt

Challenging difficulty

A classic Irem side-scrolling arcade shooter where you pilot a submarine through hostile waters. Detailed pixel art, explosive action and punishing difficulty define the experience.

Vanquish

Sci-fi setting

Platinum Games' blisteringly fast third-person shooter where rocket-boosted slides and slow-motion aiming turn cover shooting into a high-speed ballet against robot armies. Short, intense and packed with spectacle.

Einhänder

Sci-fi setting

A classic Square side-scrolling shooter where you pilot a nimble fighter and steal weapons from enemies to use as your own. Driving techno music, imposing bosses and demanding precision make it a PlayStation cult favourite.

Nex Machina

Challenging difficulty

A frantic twin-stick arcade shooter from Housemarque and Eugene Jarvis built around high scores, precise dodging and short, intense runs. Voxel explosions and tight controls make every run a spectacle.

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