A distant memory.... The doomsday planet Bacterian has long been forgotten and Planet Gradius is enjoying a time of restored peace and prosperity. However their worst nightmare is about to become reality... again.... Suddenly, out of nowhere, a massive attack force appears, overwhelming the Gradius Defense Forces. Just when things are looking hopeless, a lone fighter screams across the sky. The battle for freedom is joined once more.....

A distant memory.... The doomsday planet Bacterian has long been forgotten and Planet Gradius is enjoying a time of restored peace and prosperity. However their worst nightmare is about to become reality... again.... Suddenly, out of nowhere, a massive attack force appears, overwhelming the Gradius Defense Forces. Just when things are looking hopeless, a lone fighter screams across the sky. The battle for freedom is joined once more.....