Episode 629: Darius (Patreon)

Kevin: Perhaps unsurprisingly for an avowed arcade rat for myself, we’re heading back into the proverbial game center to discuss Taito’s seminal shooter franchise, Darius. Pronounced Da-rye-us (according to the Japanese kana), the series is a collection of aquatic-themed horizontally scrolling shooters (or shmups or STGs, depending on where you’re from), Darius has primarily been a platform for Taito to show off its technical prowess, combining the play itself with masterfully weird soundtracks and graphical showcases.

Back at Magfest 2024, proprietor of OneMillionPower Brian Clark and I presented a panel on the history of the series, and while it was well-received and a fun time, we weren’t able to touch on everything we’d intended. I realized that the podcast format gave us the perfect opportunity to dive back in on the subject, and also feature more about some of the games that had to be cut for time. Joining us is Sound Retro Co’s Christa Lee, composer, console repair expert, and a shooter fanatic in her own right. Together we dig into the whole series and just what makes it so fascinating. You’ll never look at a giant mechanical squid the same again!

Edits by Greg Leahy. Art by Nick Wanserski.

• 08:22 - Groove Coaster 2: Captain NEO -Confusion Mix-

• 16:48 - Darius (Arcade): COSMIC AIR WAY

• 25:43 - Darius (Arcade): REQUIEM

• 34:20 - Darius Plus: The Sea

• 41:57 - Darius II (Arcade): OLGA BREEZE

• 50:21 - Darius II (Arcade): Boss 2

• 59:18 - Sagaia (SMS): ALL CLEAR | Darius Twin: A Flashing Dual Hawk

• 1:08:47 - Darius Force: Spiral Snail

• 1:13:53 - Darius Gaiden: VISIONNERZ (Arrange ver.)

• 1:22:47 - Darius Gaiden: INDUCTION

• 1:30:34 - Zuntata Live 1998: FAKE | G-Darius: A d a m

• 1:40:52 - G-Darius: KIMERA II

• 1:47:01 - Darius Cozmic Revelation: Phantom Records chapter THREE

• 1:58:24 - Dariusburst: Hinder One (Iron Fossil)

• Closing - G-Darius: Future Perfect from 7 (Staff Roll)