Darius is one of the pioneers of the side-scrolling shoot 'em genre, and the Steam version replicates the multi-screen arcade experience with 4 different titles and 7 versions filled with aquatic-lifeform-themed bosses and epic, Zuntata-composed soundscapes!
The collection replicates the original arcade multi-screen cabinets, complete with in-seat bass speakers to deliver the full impact of the games. Players praise the quality of the emulation, noting that the games play exactly as they would on the original hardware.
A standout feature is the branching level design. Players can choose different paths through the stages, encountering unique boss battles along the way. This encourages replayability as players explore alternative routes and confront new challenges.
The shoot-'em-up gameplay is renowned for its high-stakes action and complex boss encounters. Players must carefully manage power-ups and weapons to overcome waves of enemies and emerge victorious against the giant robotic fish bosses.
The aquatic-themed visuals and Zuntata-composed soundtracks immerse players in the Darius universe. The lush, underwater-inspired environments and epic musical scores create a captivating atmosphere.
The collection offers a wealth of customization options, including multi-monitor support, simulated in-seat speaker output, quick save/load functionality, and various display settings and informative gadgets. These features allow players to tailor the experience to their preferences.
Furthermore, the collection includes multiple versions of the first three Darius games, each with unique balancing and difficulty adjustments. This variety gives players the opportunity to explore the differences between the iterations and find the version that best suits their skill level and playstyle.