Retro Replay Review

Gameplay

1945 I & II: The Arcade Games deliver classic vertically scrolling shoot ’em up action, faithfully recreating the frantic pace and tight controls that defined the genre in the mid-’90s. Each title in the compilation pits you against waves of alien invaders in forces so overwhelming that only a united Allied air fleet stands between Earth and total conquest. From the moment you hit “Start,” the responsive control scheme lets you weave between enemy fire, making split-second decisions on whether to focus on power-up collection or pressing the attack.

(HEY YOU!! We hope you enjoy! We try not to run ads. So basically, this is a very expensive hobby running this site. Please consider joining us for updates, forums, and more. Network w/ us to make some cash or friends while retro gaming, and you can win some free retro games for posting. Okay, carry on 👍)

A key draw of this collection is the diverse roster of aircraft. In 1945 I you can choose between the P-38, P-51, Spitfire, Bf-109, Zero and Shinden, while 1945 II expands the lineup with the Lightning, Flying Pancake, Focke-Wulf Ta 152, Hayate, Shinden and Mosquito. Each fighter boasts unique weapon loadouts and a distinctive special attack, from spread-shot barrages to devastating laser strikes, ensuring that no two playthroughs feel identical. Experimenting with different planes keeps the gameplay fresh and encourages repeated runs to master each fighter’s strengths and weaknesses.

Classic power-up mechanics are retained in full: collect weapon icons to upgrade your primary fire, grab bombs or screen-clearing specials in a pinch, and snatch point bonuses for hitting targets at the busiest moments. The balance strikes a satisfying middle ground, offering a challenging bullet-hell experience without veering into unfair territory. While newer shooters might boast elaborate combo systems or branching paths, 1945 I & II remind players that solid pacing and finely tuned enemy patterns can be just as compelling.

Graphics

Graphically, this PlayStation port hews closely to the arcade originals, showcasing richly detailed sprite work and lush, iridescent backgrounds. Whether you’re strafing through a crumbling cityscape, weaving between zeppelins over the English Channel, or blasting alien motherships in orbit, each stage displays vibrant color palettes and fluid parallax scrolling. The care taken in redrawing these elements for the PS1 screen means you won’t lose the crispness or energy that made the arcade versions stand out.

Enemy designs range from familiar fighter planes to bizarre alien constructs, each rendered with enough flair to keep your eyes glued to the action. Explosions pop with satisfying pixel bursts, while weapon effects—like cascading bullets and charged bolts—cut through the chaos to indicate exactly what’s happening on screen. Occasional slowdown under heavy onscreen fire can occur, but it rarely disrupts the flow; in fact, some players find it adds a nostalgic charm reminiscent of the arcade cabinets they once frequented.

The user interface is minimalist yet functional. A small HUD in the corner tracks your remaining lives, bombs, and weapon level, leaving the majority of the display unobstructed for the high-octane visuals. Subtle animations accompany stage transitions and boss entrances, framing the action without resorting to lengthy cutscenes. For fans of retro shooters, the graphical presentation here strikes a satisfying balance between authenticity and polish.

Story

Storytelling in 1945 I & II is purposely minimal, channeling the straightforward arcade roots of the series. In a post-war twist on real history, Earth in 1945 is besieged by an alien invasion that rapidly overruns continents. Facing this unprecedented threat, the world’s major air forces—American, British, German and Japanese—put aside old rivalries to form an uneasy alliance. The setup is simple: you pick your plane, engage the enemy, and fight your way to the heart of the alien menace.

While there are no lengthy narrative cutscenes, each stage briefing provides enough context to keep you invested. Background art and level names hint at the global scale of the conflict—from Tokyo’s smoldering ruins to Alpine strongholds and deep-space battle zones. Boss encounters often come with short text prompts that underscore the stakes: a gargantuan alien dreadnought, bio-mechanical warships and even flying fortresses twist the lines between wartime reality and science-fiction fantasy.

This streamlined storytelling places the emphasis squarely on delivering nonstop action. Though sparse by modern standards, the premise of a united Allied effort and the variety of theaters lend a sense of progression and purpose. Each victory feels meaningful, and the ambition of facing down an entire extraterrestrial armada provides just enough narrative thrust to fuel your drive through multiple grueling loops.

Overall Experience

As a single package, 1945 I & II: The Arcade Games offers outstanding value for fans of retro shooters. By bundling both titles on one disc, players can seamlessly alternate between the two campaigns, unlocking new patterns, mastering distinct aircraft and chasing higher scores. The compilation benefits from faithful PS1 ports that preserve arcade fidelity while adding nothing that detracts from the originals’ appeal.

Replayability is high: with six planes per game, varying weapon sets and escalating difficulty loops, there’s always another challenge around the corner. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran seeking perfect runs or a newcomer drawn in by the accessible controls and vibrant visuals, the learning curve is welcoming yet rewarding. Co-op play is absent here, but the single-player experience is so engaging you’ll find yourself returning again and again to chase that next personal best.

In the crowded field of shoot ’em ups, 1945 I & II stand out for their finely tuned gameplay, evocative graphics and just-right narrative framing. For anyone looking to relive arcade glory or discover classic shooters anew, this compilation remains a must-have. It’s a testament to how simple premises, when executed with precision and flair, can remain timeless staples of gaming history.

Retro Replay Score

null/10