Gradius: Neo

Gradius Neo is a horizontally scrolling shoot-'em-up for mobile phones, originally released in Japan on NTT DoCoMo's FOMA 900i series and later in North America via Verizon Wireless. The game introduces a new setting where the Gradius Union faces off against the Lars Empire, a faction that has acquired technology from both the Gradius and Bacterian forces. Players pilot the Force Viper across five stages, engaging in classic side-scrolling combat while navigating environments like asteroid fields, enemy fleets, and a central space fortress. While primarily focused on gameplay, the game includes a brief narrative in which the Force Viper confronts the Lars Empire's forces, culminating in the destruction of the Central Server and the appearance of a ruined Big Core drifting in space.

Gameplay retains the traditional Gradius power-up gauge system, with upgrades including Missiles, Lasers, and Options (also known as Multiples). In Extra Mode, players can enhance weapon types—for example, Missiles can become 2-Way Missiles, and Options can evolve into Metal Options that absorb enemy fire. A key feature is the additional Option Formation system: by collecting green power capsules, players can rearrange their Options into six formations, such as Cross, Rotate, or Wide. When combined with a full set of Options and an active Laser slot, each formation triggers a unique special weapon, including the Wide Laser, Lightning Laser, and Sword Laser.