To keep things interesting, a scoring multiplier called the Tension Bonus System allows the leveling up of score by way of close proximity to enemy bullets. Get grazed by buckshot and marvel as your points are multiplied by up to 8X depending on how skillful you are at deftly maneuvering and getting buzzed by oncoming fire. Near misses will also power up your weapon systems with a brief jolt. The Tension System wrinkles the gameplay in such a way as to behoove one to avoid but also draw towards bullets. Quite a conundrum.

A standard vulcan shot, a screen clearing bomb and a charge-up shot are available to each character. Holding down the fire button for a few seconds collects enough firepower for the charge-up shot. Connecting an enemy ship with a charge-up blast will force it to release a bounty of power-up coins.

The limited edition of PS2 Shikigami no Shiro 2 includes a bonus witch figure packaged in a separate cardboard-backed blister pack. The game and figure are then inserted into a sturdy cardboard box of somewhat hefty girth.

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