Salamander III

About

Salamander III is a side-scrolling shooter that brings back the Gradius series' signature bullet-hell action. Players take control of two customizable ships, a retro-upgraded fighter and a sci-fi hybrid, teaming up in co-op or split-screen to blast through waves of enemies. The game mixes fast-paced dodging, power-up collection, and precise shooting across tightly designed levels, with a focus on chaotic multiplayer teamwork. The game includes remastered versions of earlier Salamander and Gradius titles, offering a deep dive for veterans. Its return to local split-screen play has already sparked buzz in retro shooter circles, with early builds earning praise for balancing challenge and accessibility. The inclusion of both new levels and classic stages makes it a compelling pick for fans of the genre’s golden era.

Storyline

Thanks to the brave efforts of crown prince Lord British and the hero of the Gradius Army, peace was restored to the watery planet known as Latis. However, that peace was short-lived as the seemingly defeated Salamander Force regained its strength and set out to conquer Latis once more. Meanwhile, the Gradius Army found itself struggling against the Bacterian super weapon known as Dark Force, as the evil empire sought to spread its influence to the far reaches of the galaxy. With no hope of calling upon their former saviors for help, Latis's imperial princess is forced to personally take the fight to the enemy in an upgraded version of her brother's beloved ship, the Lord British MK III fighter craft. She is joined by the Vic Viper Type L, a brand-new ship made with Gradius's technology and Latis's latest scientific advances.