Memories of greasy tokens and sore index fingers could never dull our love for side-scrolling shooters. And of all the great ones out there, the mighty Gradius rules with an ion-coated fist. But will time dull our love for this classic beauty? Siliconera doesn't think it will.

The article makes some interesting points about the good (most of it) and the bad (Gradius III) of the Gradius Portable copy they got their hands on, most of which can be summed up by these points:

• Gradius I and II have no chugging whatsoever.
• Gradius Gaiden looks great and kicks major booty.
• Gradius III has the best weapons system, but slowdown drags it down.
• Buy it, buy it, buy it!

Best of all, the menu in the import version is done in English, so those of you who happen to import regularly (or make regular trips to certain import-carrying Fry's Electronics branches) can get their copy early and without fear of having to learn an entirely new language.

[Thanks, Siliconera]