Ray’z Arcade Chronology

The Rayforce series is a state of the art for its time both artistically and gameplay-wise, and does a lot of things better than shmups do today. The way the first Rayforce convinces you the entire adventure is in one contiguous world is spectacular in a way that almost no other game in the shmup genre pulls off as fluently, Eschatos is the only other example that comes to mind. There is a level of "show, don't tell" storytelling in the first game that you never get to see in most action games, and all three of the games have absolutely astounding music and level design. Taito uses the lock-on mechanic to great effect, not only as a way to keep the pace of each stage, but to create an intelligent scoring system, predict the player's movements to telegraph attacks to them more naturally, and signal who is enemy and who is foe (see: Rayforce Area 2) without needing to outright tell you. The weapons feel powerful and rewarding, and yet the games still remind you that you are a part of a larger conflict bigger than yourself, and don't shrug off their lore even though there's little time to explain it. The scoring system and boss patterns present choices that are at odds with one anothe…

Really good collection I just also wish it included the ps1 versions of the game that had some differences

Ray’z Arcade Chronology is a lovingly crafted collection that preserves one of Taito’s most influential shoot-’em-up franchises for modern audiences. Developed by M2 and published by TAITO, this compilation brings together RayForce, RayStorm, RayStorm neo-HD, RayCrisis, and RayCrisis HD, creating a comprehensive showcase of a series that played a significant role in the evolution of arcade shooters. Rather than feeling like a simple bundle of old games, the collection presents itself as a historical journey through the growth of the genre, highlighting how each installment expanded upon the ideas introduced by its predecessor. The defining feature of the Ray series is its innovative lock-on laser system, a mechanic that continues to stand out even decades after its debut. Players are challenged to engage enemies across multiple layers of the battlefield, targeting threats above and below while managing waves of incoming fire. This adds a strategic dimension that separates the games from many traditional shooters that rely solely on quick reflexes. The mechanic remains engaging throughout the collection, rewarding precision, planning, and mastery while delivering the satisfying spe…

Bought it on sale for $25, liked enough to keep it. I have issues with the game recognizing a controller for player 2 over remote play. I think Rayforce is the best shmup I've played. Cool games.

A premium collection at a premium price. Still the definitive versions of all three Ray games. Real shame we'll likely never get a release of the R-GEAR DLC outside of JP PSN/eShop.

LOCK-ON LASER