
Gradius IV is the fourth entry in the arcade lineup of the scrolling shooter video game series created by Konami Computer Entertainment Tokyo. It follows Gradius III, which came out in 1989, though earlier spinoffs like Gradius Gaiden had already been released. This installment features a notable visual enhancement, especially in the use of colored lighting effects. Additionally, the game introduces changes to its weapon selection system, with the removal of the edit mode and the inclusion of an online ranking system.
A fading memory... The apocalyptic world of Bacterian has been erased from history, and Planet Gradius thrives in a new era of peace and abundance. But their greatest terror is about to return... once more... Without warning, a colossal armada descends, crushing the Gradius Defense Forces in an instant. Just as all seems lost, a solitary warrior streaks through the skies. The fight for freedom begins anew...