Shoot'em-up videogames are not dead, and "Gradius V" is the proof.
"Gradius V" is the same story with a little "time-travel" twist, but everything else is just identical to older games. The impressive PS2 Graphics is also very "retro" at the same time, with very well-made spaceships, bosses and other awesome special effects.
Sounds are quite good, but some BGMs are amazing: I'm glad to see some of the older "Gradius" themes on the PS2 (just like some minor bosses: they always come back!).
If loved (or liked) "Gradius" in the past, you'll love this one. I know, this one came out a few years ago, but I'm pretty sure that a lot of people haven't tried it yet: so just do it, OK?!