The galaxy was once threatened by an evil life form known as the Bacterian cells, which were destroyed by the Gradius army long ago. However, some Bacterian cells managed to survive and a new army has emerged ready to take over the galaxy. The Gradius forces have developed a powerful fighter called the Vic Viper to counter this threat.
The gameplay in Gradius V is an arcade-style shooter where you pilot the Vic Viper through side-scrolling screens, destroying enemies and bosses along the way. Initially, your firepower is limited, but you can acquire additional weapons by collecting power-up capsules left behind by defeated enemies. As you progress, new weapons become available, including speed boosters, missiles, double fire, lasers, and force fields.