Overview
Known as Life Force in some regions, Salamander took Gradius into two-player territory. The complex power-up bar gave way to direct collectibles, making co-op smoother but changing the strategic feel. Alternating horizontal and vertical stages provided variety, while organic, biological environments distinguished it from Gradius’s mechanical aesthetic.
Fast facts
- Developer: Konami.
- Alternative title: Life Force (US).
- Players: Two simultaneous.
- Relation: Gradius spin-off.
Gradius differences
| Aspect | Gradius | Salamander |
|---|
| Power-ups | Selection bar | Direct collection |
| Players | Single | Two simultaneous |
| Scrolling | Horizontal only | Alternating H/V |
| Aesthetic | Mechanical | Organic |
Stage structure
| Stage | Direction | Theme |
|---|
| 1 | Horizontal | Organic cavern |
| 2 | Vertical | Fire zone |
| 3 | Horizontal | Stonehenge |
| 4 | Vertical | Cell structure |
| 5 | Horizontal | Volcanic |
| 6 | Varies | Final assault |
Power-up system
| Item | Effect |
|---|
| Speed | Velocity increase |
| Missile | Ground bombs |
| Ripple | Wide shot |
| Laser | Piercing beam |
| Option | Trailing pod |
| Force Field | Shield |
Two-player dynamics
| Feature | Implementation |
|---|
| Shared screen | Both players visible |
| Power sharing | Individual collection |
| Revival | Return after death |
| Strategy | Complementary loadouts |
Home versions
| Platform | Version |
|---|
| NES | Life Force |
| PC Engine | Enhanced port |
| C64 | Conversion |
See also