Raiden DX is a vertically scrolling shoot 'em up game developed by Seibu Kaihatsu and released for arcades in 1994. It is an updated version of Raiden II, featuring new game mechanics and additional content.
Gameplay
Raiden DX retains much of the gameplay from Raiden II, with added features and modifications. While most levels remain similar, they include new enemy formations, altered item placements, and three selectable courses available at the beginning of the game. Boss battles now operate on a timer, and players receive an end-of-game grade based on factors such as enemy kills, secrets discovered, and boss completion times.
The game introduces a new medal system: when revealed, medals gradually lose color, decreasing in point value until they turn completely gray. Once gray, medals briefly flash, offering a significant bonus if collected during this moment.
Game modes
Raiden DX features three game modes, each with unique layouts and difficulty levels:
Mission Alpha
A single 15-minute level with one boss at the end. Players can unlock harder versions of Missions Bravo and Charlie by performing well, which includes collecting all secrets, shooting down most enemies, and avoiding the use of bombs or losing lives.
| Stage | Name | Boss Name[1] | Earth Code Name[1] | BGM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | Training Stage | Folud Gartel | Ground Crawler | Conflict |
Mission Bravo
A beginner mode comprising the first five stages of Raiden II. New mechanics and secrets are implemented, providing an introductory experience to the updated gameplay.
| Stage | Name | Boss Name[1] | Earth Code Name[1] | BGM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Countryside | Zelzerei Se Full | Walker (×2) | Conflict |
| 2 | City | Geldobird (Upper) Nouzard (Lower) |
Albatross | Mission Striker |
| 3 | Ocean | Dal Yar | Battle Axe | Roaring Field |
| 4 | Ruins | Balg | Thunder Fortress | Limit Exceed |
| 5 | Enemy Terrestrial Base | Harkestal (First form) Arvey (Second form) Gelmes (Third form) |
Black Bird | Like Storm |
Mission Charlie
An advanced mode covering all eight stages of Raiden II, with an additional bonus stage following the final stage. Stage layouts are redesigned with new enemies, attack formations, and boss patterns. The frequency of enemy encounters is increased, and new Raiden DX mechanics create a fresh experience compared to previous installments. The final stage takes place in a metallic environment, culminating in a tank boss battle.
| Stage | Name | Boss Name[1] | Earth Code Name[1] | BGM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | Floating Continent | Meshky Delarz | Graphite | Break Out |
| 7 | Enemy Huge Battleship | Hosorg Taline | Huge Satellite | Thrusts |
| 8 | Final Attack Target | Gharb Gadim | Mother Haven | Sadness Ahead |
| 9 | Extra Stage | Noclay Zameen | Nodule | Roaring Field |
Ports
Raiden DX was ported to the PlayStation in Japan. This version includes an exclusive soundtrack, the soundtrack from Viper Phase 1, the original arcade soundtrack, The Master of Raiden encyclopedia, and other additional features.
Gallery
External Links
References
| Raiden video games | ||
| Raiden series | Raiden ● Raiden II (DX) ● Raiden III ● Raiden IV (Overkill) ● Raiden V (Story) | |
| Raiden Fighters series | Raiden Fighters ● Raiden Fighters 2: Operation Hell Dive ● Raiden Fighters Jet (text transcript) | |
| Compilations | The Raiden Project ● Raiden Fighters Aces ● Raiden Legacy | |
| Other Seibu Kaihatsu/MOSS shmups | Stinger ● Scion ● Air Raid ● Viper Phase 1 ● Caladrius (Blaze) ● Raiden NOVA | |