Gradius: all version differences
6 documented differences between the releases of Gradius, each with a source. Back to the main page for names, releases and where to play.
Category × version
| Category | Arcade | NES | Arcade (NA, Nemesis) | MSX | PC Engine |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gameplay | 1 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Content | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| Difficulty | 0 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
Version differences
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GameplayArcadeNES
The NES version allows at most two Options instead of the arcade's four.1
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ContentArcadeNES
The NES game simplifies the level designs: the Moai stage loses the arcade's vertical scrolling, for example, and the stage 4 volcanoes don't erupt.2
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GameplayNES
The Famicom/NES version adds a pause-screen cheat (Up, Up, Down, Down, Left, Right, Left, Right, B, A) that grants nearly all power-ups; it became known as the Konami Code.1
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DifficultyArcade (NA, Nemesis)
The North American arcade Nemesis is considerably harder: orange enemies spawn after you lose a life, and it offers three continues.1
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ContentMSX
The MSX version adds a Bone Planet stage, four hidden warp zones and the option to fly the TwinBee ship.1
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ContentPC Engine
The PC Engine version adds a Desert Planet stage and slight vertical scrolling.1
Sources
Checked: 2026-10-13