Gradius is a classic side-scrolling shooter developed by Konami and released on the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) in Japan. Released under the title "ArchiMENdes Hen" in Japan, it has become one of the most iconic games in the Gradius series and an essential part of gaming history.

In this article, we'll explore how to buy the original game of Nintendo NES Gradius (ArchiMENdes Hen) for Windows from a recommended market. We'll cover the various options available, including digital distribution platforms and online marketplaces.

Why Buy the Original Game?

The original Gradius game on NES is highly sought after by retro gamers and collectors. The game's challenging gameplay, colorful graphics, and rich sound design make it an experience unlike any other. However, due to its age, buying a physical copy of the game can be expensive and hard to find.

Buying the original game digitally from a recommended market offers several advantages:

1. Convenience: Digital copies are easily accessible on various platforms.
2. Space-saving: No need for physical storage space or disc management.
3. Preservation: Digital copies ensure that the game remains playable and preserved for future generations.
4. Affordability: Prices can be significantly lower than buying a physical copy.

Recommended Marketplaces to Buy Gradius

1. GOG (Good Old Games): GOG is an excellent digital distribution platform dedicated to classic games. They offer a wide selection of retro games, including the original NES version of Gradius. You can purchase the game directly from their website and have it delivered via download.

2. Steam: Steam has expanded its library to include numerous retro titles, including Gradius. You'll find both original releases and remastered versions available on the platform.

3. Epic Games Store: Although relatively new to the scene, Epic Games Store has started adding more retro titles, including some Konami classics. Be sure to check their store regularly for new additions.

4. Nintendo eShop (Virtual Console): While not as extensive as GOG or Steam's libraries, Nintendo's Virtual Console service offers a selection of NES games, including Gradius. However, availability can be limited due to licensing agreements and region restrictions.

5. Humble Store: This digital storefront hosts occasional retro game bundles and promotions that might include the original Gradius for sale at discounted prices.

6. Microsoft Store (Xbox): The Microsoft Store offers a range of games on Xbox One, including some Konami titles. However, availability can be limited due to region restrictions and licensing agreements.

How to Buy Gradius from Recommended Marketplaces

To buy the original NES version of Gradius for Windows from recommended marketplaces:

1. GOG: Visit GOG's official website (www.gog.com), search for "Gradius," and click on the game's title link. Follow their purchase and download process.

2. Steam: Head over to Steam (store.steampowered.com), navigate to the store, type "Gradius" in the search bar, and select the correct result from the drop-down menu. Click on the game's title link to purchase and download it.

3. Epic Games Store: Visit Epic Games' official website (www.epicgames.com/store), use their search function to find "Gradius," and select your desired version (if available). Follow their checkout process to complete the purchase and download.

4. Nintendo eShop (Virtual Console): Access Nintendo's Virtual Console service by navigating to www.nintendo.com/virtual-console on your console or web browser, search for "Gradius," and select the correct version (if available). Follow their purchase and download process.

5. Humble Store: Visit the Humble Store (www.humblebundle.com), navigate to their storefront section, use their search bar to look up "Gradius," and find your preferred release option (digital code or bundle). Complete the checkout process to purchase.

6. Microsoft Store (Xbox): Visit Microsoft's official website (www.microsoft.com/en-us/store) for Xbox game purchases, search for "Gradius" using their store search function, and navigate to your desired version (if available). Follow the checkout process to complete the purchase.

Tips and Tricks

Before making a purchase:

1. Check compatibility: Ensure that your Windows installation is compatible with the game's requirements.
2. Read reviews: Look up user reviews on platforms like Steam or GOG to get an idea of the game's performance, bugs, and overall quality.
3. Region restrictions: Some games might be region-locked due to licensing agreements. Make sure you purchase from a reputable source that allows digital distribution in your region.

Conclusion

The original NES version of Gradius is a timeless classic that offers engaging gameplay, rich graphics, and immersive sound design. Buying the game digitally from recommended marketplaces like GOG, Steam, Epic Games Store, Nintendo eShop (Virtual Console), Humble Store, or Microsoft Store provides convenience, affordability, and preservation benefits.

Make sure to choose your preferred platform based on its availability, pricing, and region restrictions, and follow their purchase and download processes. With the digital version of Gradius at your fingertips, you'll be able to enjoy this iconic game for years to come.