The updates I’ve read from Microsoft’s shmup fest in Japan so far make me optimistic that maybe Aksys was right, and 2010 could be the year of the shmup – though I was hoping against all odds that Microsoft would pull Radiant Silvergun out of the hat like a well worn rabbit to seal the deal.

What we do have is a trailer for Cave’s Deathsmiles 2, as well as news that Cave will also be bringing Guwange to the 360. Since Cave has said that Espgaluda II represents their last region-free 360 release for the time being, I guess we’ll have to stare real hard at Aksys and cross our fingers that a warm reception to their release of Deathsmiles here is the first step toward more bullets for those of us in North America – at least the prospect doesn’t seem as far-fetched as it once would have.

Sidenote – I’m also psyched at the excitement for After Burner Climax, which I’m already convinced is a must have title this year.

Deathsmiles 2 trailer after the break.