Back in the 1980s and 1990s, Irem was a prolific Japanese game developer that produced numerous arcade and console hits. ININ and Strictly Limited Games have already announced Irem Collection Volume 1, a collection of single-player shoot 'em ups. Irem Collection Volume 2, however, features four games, all of which feature 2-player local co-op! The four games are GunForce (Arcade), GunForce (SNES), GunForce II (arcade), and Air Duel (arcade).
Here are quick descriptions of each game:
Gun Force (Arcade and Super NES)
GunForce is sometimes considered to be one of the first run 'n' gun games, it can be seen as the initial baby steps that paved the way for the later-released Metal Slug series and its sequel, GunForce II, both of which were highly acclaimed.
Originally released on the Super Nintendo in the West and in the arcades in Japan, you must run and gun your way through hordes of aliens to stop a rogue CPU and restore freedom to the world. The game shows no mercy and throws you into the enemy frontlines right from the start as you parachute into action. And if that’s not enough '90s action for you, how about doing a wheelie on a motorbike while shooting helicopters? GunForce has got you covered. As it is now a tradition, GunForce introduced different vehicles the player can control – tanks, helicopters or motorbikes. Make your choice!
GunForce II
GunForce II, known as GeoStorm in Japan, improves upon GunForce in every way and is one of the last arcade games from Irem. GunForce II was never released outside of arcades, making its inclusion in the Irem Collection Vol. 2 its first-ever worldwide console release.
Featuring improved animations, enhanced gameplay, and a killer soundtrack, GunForce II was created by the same staff that later developed the Metal Slug series. It is considered the spiritual predecessor to the Metal Slug series, with many of its sound effects and designs being reused in the series.
The GunForce games were also released on the iiRcade home arcade platform. iiRcade recently shut down, sadly, so those versions are no longer available to buy.
Air Duel
Air Duel is a 2D vertically scrolling shoot 'em up that was exclusively available in Japanese arcades and never made it to the West. Its inclusion in the Irem Collection Volume 2 marks its first-ever worldwide console release.
Developed by the same legendary team at Irem that brought you GunForce and later the Metal Slug series, Air Duel offers 7 challenging stages that need to be mastered either alone or with a friend in co-op.
All four games will feature online leaderboards.
Irem Collection Volume 2 will be released digitally on Xbox, PlayStation, and Switch on February 20, 2024. Physical and collectors editions are available to preorder now at Strictly Limited Games.