Raiden III

It’s one of those games that fans will probably enjoy, even if there’s little that stands out other than the Dual mode. [JPN Import]

The most interesting feature though, has to be the inclusion of the "Double Play" mode where it's possible to play a 2P game whilst controlling both ships - a technique made famous by a skillful Japanese Ikaruga player, and now here it is entering the mainstream as a proper play mode. [JPN Import]

True, the graphics and music feel aged and the game could've used online play, but even with these flaws, it achieves what it sets out to do, deliver "destroy everything"-themed action for the somewhat moderate price of $29.99.

The only shame is that, when you finally manage to master the game with a single credit (and we're getting close), the only person around to show off in front of is probably a bewildered friend who's just popped round for a friendly game of Pro Evo.

6 / 7 / 6 / 7 - 26 [Sept 2005]

If you've played an arcade shooter before, you've played this title, and if you're really curious about Raiden III, a rental should satisfy your itch.

Enjoyable as it can be in spurts, Raiden III doesn't do anything unique to stand out from other modern shoot-'em-ups, and that it isn't priced at a flat-out budget rate is a bit disquieting.

There, however, is one thing that sets Raiden III apart from the shooter pack: it's single-player mode enables you to control both warplanes at once, essentially playing co-op with yourself. It's simple, really - the left analog stick and shoulder buttons control one ship, and the right analog stick and shoulder buttons control the other.

The game doesn't take long enough to beat, there's no real reason to play it again, and there isn't anything even remotely special about the experience.

If shootem'ups are your thing, than you can't go wrong with Raiden III. If not, save your money for the arcade.

Raiden III is stale comfort food for arcade fans; it's pleasant, but will make you wonder why the old games still taste so much fresher. [July 2007, p.85]

The game is too short, and doesn’t sport enough play options to keep it fresh past a few hours of play.