Progress is about the same in both versions. The extra life isn't helping too much in the Saturn version so far, possibly because rank increases when you get the extends...
I hadn't even noticed any rank increase yet. Do you know what its based on? Like, does picking up the extend immediately increase rank, or is it a gradual increase based on number of lives? If immediate, it must not be too severe in the Arcade version.
I'm guessing that the rank only affects bullet speed? I did notice in one run that popcorn were shooting faster in stage 4 than normal. Didn't notice more bullets/higher enemy HP or anything though.
So, I usually get the extend at the end of stage 2... which means I am starting stage 3 with 6 rank. No wonder I never noticed it, it is pretty much maxing out before the action even gets going.
I think there are more bullets, as well as faster bullets. Plus, it seems that some bosses may have more difficult attacks at higher rank. (I'm going by Randorama's strategy guide on ShmupsForum.)
I noticed a rank system within a few runs. I hope I get some more time to play this one, it's a fun shmup that I totally overlooked. I'm getting toward the million mark on the Saturn anyway.
Need FreeMCboot? I'll install it on your PS2 Memory Card for free if you cover postage both ways.
Consoles: I have too much stuff
Arcade: No seriously, I have too much stuff. Someone grab a shovel and dig me out of my basement.