KONAMI released the launch date and Special Edition information for Otomedius Excellent, which is now slated for release in July 19, 2011. Also announced is the addition of a Special Edition version of North American release of the Gradius-inspired series, which includes a 2-sided pillowcase featuring the girls of OTOMEDIUS, an exclusive art book, and a single disc OTOMEDIUS soundtrack. The standalone game will retail for $29.99 while the Special Edition will be available for $49.99. More details of the Special Edition will be revealed at a later date.

Key Features Include:

•        Classic Gradius-style gameplay gets a stunning update. Experience 2D side-scrolling shoot-em-up gameplay like never before.
•        Brilliant graphics and an excellent soundtrack. Environments are rendered in hi-definition and complemented by thrilling music.
•        Lovely characters to pilot through an expanded world. Choose from nine characters on-disc to battle through all-new stages of thrilling  shmup action!
•        Three's company! Team up with a friend or two over Xbox Live Arcade or on one Xbox 360 to have help obtaining hard-to-get items!
•        Eye-popping Gallery mode. View your unlocked stills and graphics in a new Gallery that grows as you progress through the game.