Irem Collection: Volume 2

The pickings are slim in this entry as well, but are still worthwhile to own and play in Irem Collection Volume 2.

Calling this Irem Collection Volume 2 feels a bit misrepresentative considering 99% of games in this collection are different versions of Gunforce and its sequel. If you’re a fan of classic Contra/Probotector-like games, then this collection is a must play. If you’re looking to dive more into this old school developer/platformer, this ain’t it.

A collection superior to the first, which stands out for the Metal Slug base in GunForce 2 and for two games released for the first time on consoles.

Irem Collection Volume 2 is the second volume of five classics from the Japanese company Irem. This new compilation includes three other classics from the Japanese developer, GunForce, GunForce II and Air Duel. The presentation and options included in the compilation are quite good, although a few more extras such as galleries or documentation of the games may be missing to give it more packaging, but in general we are faced with a solid product. Fans of Irem and his timeless classics have a must with this new volume, and should eagerly await the remaining three.

"No room for lame games, but not for masterpieces either."

This second IREM collection is solid, with three great games that are fun and challenging. Players old and new will definitely find something to like here, exactly like the previous volume.  I hope these collections continue as IREM has a wide library of great games that will no doubt make for some more great collections. Great games, great challenge and a good price, IREM Collection Volume 2 is highly recommended.

Overall, while the Irem Collection Volume 2 is a commendable selection of seminal titles from the past, unfairly forgotten over time, it ultimately amounts to a basic emulation with minor extras and little else. Unlike compilations such as Atari 50, which offer abundant bonus content and revamped or even entirely new versions of classic titles, this collection feels minimal. Although technically solid, it could have benefited from more substantial content and perhaps a visual refresh to modernize the three small gems it includes.

Irem Collection Vol. 2 is a slightly unbalanced collection that’s perfect for fans and nostalgists yearning for the golden days of arcades. Did I say nostalgists? What I meant was "masochists."

A new set of IREM classics now on Nintendo Switch

The second IREM collection may not be packed with well-known games, but it includes important games. These titles set the stage for more popular games and launched the careers of these developers. It is worth knowing that from the outset. That is how I would market this collection, it makes it worth owning alone. Being able to see the origins of classic arcade games is great. Toss in making previously unavailable in the West games and you have a can’t miss collection that any gamer that grew up in 90s arcades would be disappointed to miss out on.