I just beat Gradius II on my Famicom for the first time. Woohoo!!!
That was HARD! I could usually make it to the last level but would be killed one way or another.
Here's a video of what it's like:
(Note: This isn't me playing)

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It looks easier than it is :3

Also, I made this NES cartridge label for the game. There are a few game reproduction sites floating around, so you can use this label if you like. I have a hi-res copy that I can give you if you PM me.