Irem Collection Vol. 3 Introduces Three Enhanced Retro Shoot ’em Ups to Xbox

Sure thing, here we go:

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Did you ever think you’d be reminiscing about arcade games from the 80s and 90s with an actual tear in your eye? Well, maybe not a tear, but at least a nostalgic grin? Anyway, ININ, Tozai Games, and Irem are back with another blast from the past. Irem’s Volume 3 has hit the digital shelves, reviving arcade hits with a few surprises.

Okay, picture this: it’s 1987, you’re in an arcade, the floor’s a bit sticky ‘cause of spilled sodas, and Mr. Heli is in your face. Yeah, Mr. Heli, the chopper on legs, spinning and shooting its way into ‘cute ’em up’ legend. I wonder, did they know how quirky it was back then? I sorta doubt it.

And then there’s Mystic Riders from ’92—where flying broomsticks and boomerang attacks are, apparently, just a normal Tuesday. The creatures are mythical, the action’s enchanting. Who would’ve thought riding broomsticks in video games would still feel this epic? Mark and Zeal, the wizard and witch team, gives co-op a magical zing too.

Let’s not forget Dragon Breed in 1989. An R-Type but with dragons? Exactly. Bahamoot—yeah, that’s the dragon’s name—breathes fire like a total boss. It’s like medieval times but with lasers. Wild, right?

These aren’t just games, they’re a trip down memory lane. Tough as nails, as if designed to empty your pockets quarter by quarter. Nostalgia hits hard, and so do these games. Now, with console-friendly mods, you can tweak controls and difficulty, and even turn on autofire (because nobody’s thumbs should suffer, really).

Oh, and let’s talk visuals. Filters that mimic CRT monitors are included. Weirdly enough, those old-school vibes haven’t lost their charm. Makes you wonder how something so ancient can still look so cool.

For the competitive spirits out there, global leaderboards add a spark. Aim for the top or just beat your personal best. Competition is fierce, but hey, isn’t that part of the arcade thrill?

Irem Collection Volume 3 is out on Xbox One and Series X|S. And, in case you missed it, the earlier volumes are hanging around too. Dive in and unleash your inner arcade champion. Catch you on the leaderboard — or not, if I get too distracted by the retro graphics.