First portable Konami Gradius, named Nemesis in the West. Vic Viper, classic capsule power-ups, horizontal levels flowing well for Game Boy. Shorter than arcade Gradius but the formula is instantly recognizable. A very good portable shooter, chain it with the Nemesis II and Interstellar Assault sequels.
Your verdict
Category
Shooter1 player7+
Description
Game Boy port of Gradius with the Vic Viper spacecraft repelling the Bacterion empire's forces across space. Published by Konami, released in 1990 in Europe and North America. Series' signature capsule power-up system, varied horizontal scrolling levels, and imposing bosses.
Name retained for the European release of Konami's first portable Gradius, carried over from the European arcade naming tradition that started in the eighties on the MSX and cabinet circuits. The PAL Konami run was carefully assembled but short, and the dedicated cover art differs clearly from the international equivalent, drawing in shmup enthusiasts and Gradius completists tracking regional variants. First Konami shooter on Game Boy and base of the handheld strand.
Is Nemesis still worth playing in 2026?
The first portable Gradius, released as Nemesis in the West, lays the foundations by squeezing arcade ideas into a surprisingly dignified Game Boy package. Vic Viper, the classic capsule system for speed, missile, double, laser and options, and a clean, readable horizontal scroll. Shorter and rougher than the later Interstellar Assault, it still earns its place for historical weight and the simple satisfaction of completing a run in a few minutes. For retro shoot fans and anyone curious about the early Game Boy library, it remains a worthwhile detour.
