If you want to check out the Japanese indie gaming scene or just wondering if there’s a Gradius-type fighter shmup (shoot-them-up) that can rival those in PS2s, then take a peek at Ether Vapor.

This 10MB demo showcases a fantastic, high-paced game which makes use of 3D in the best possible way. Shifting from top-down to side-scrolling perspectives in missions will make sure you don’t get bored. I have to admit, since I don’t have a PS2, I’m not updated in the console shmup space. But this game clearly shows that the PC can equally deliver with just plain-old DirectX graphics.

The website and the help file are in Japanese but the game’s internal menus are in English so it’s all playable. Have fun!